The Journeys Begin: Ora by E.E. Byrnes is a Young Adult Fiction Fantasy that is the first novella of the exciting prequel series to Jenelyn’s Journey. We had the pleasure of speaking with the author for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.
Born in northern California, Erin specialized as an equestrian trainer in the Olympic disciplines, but her natural wanderlust and family history led her to Ireland, where she currently resides with her husband and three children. Surrounded by the natural splendor of the emerald coast, she embraced her love for the sprawling landscape through hiking.
With a particular interest in European culture and history, Erin moved into the world of literature to share her tales of journeys and adventures with fellow bookworms.
When did you start writing?
25 years ago
What was it like growing up?
I was busy with school, horseback riding, dog training, and writing books.
How was your early life?
I moved a lot as a child with my mom before we settled at my dad’s house for my teenage years. Despite this, I always had a few close friends and stayed active outside of school. I loved hiking, camping, and reading.
What has been the biggest influence in your career?
Watching other authors succeed and enjoying watching readers love my books.
Tell us about your newest release.
My newest release was The Journeys Begin: Ora last October. It’s the first novella of the prequel series to Jenelyn’s Journey. However, I have an upcoming release this summer or possibly early autumn, which is the second book of the Jenelyn’s Journey series. It’s called Curse of the Cheval Mallet and will follow Jenelyn to France.
Which book of yours would you call your favorite child?
The Black Stallion or Black Beauty. I can’t decide!
What inspired you to write this book?
I had the idea to write it when I was 12 years old. It just seemed like a fun idea where a girl travels the world and meets real-life legends in the countries she visits. Over the years, it’s evolved into a much deeper story than that, but the elements are the same.
What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?
Baking, walking, or reading.
What does your writing space look like?
I actually write at the coffee table in the living room since my husband works from home and needs the office space.
If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?
What’s the Worst That Can Happen?
How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?
Tom’s Song and Jenelyn’s Journey were both written when I was young, so it took me over 20 years to finally get them ready to publish. The Journeys Begin: Ora took me four months to write. I draw up a rudimentary outline and then the characters tell me the rest.
Favorite reads?
Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series and many others. I’ll read anything aside from horror.
Do you have any book recommendations?
Tracey Chevalier’s Virgin Blue. I loved it.
What’s your next big project?
I’m currently writing the second book in The Journeys Begin series. It’s about Ora’s daughter and her Journey in 1888.
Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
Don’t lose hope, don’t stop writing, and don’t compare yourself with other authors.
Follow E.E.
Want to be on our blog? It’s easy. Sign up now.
You can check out our magazine or write an article, we publish quarterly on Amazon, and it’s free for non-advertisers.
