Seconds Before Sunrise
Book Two in the Timely Death Trilogy
By Shannon Thompson
Release Date: August 25th, 2015
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal
Tour Dates: September 7th - 18th
Two nightmares. One memory.
"Chaos within destiny. It was the definition of our love."
Eric has weeks before his final battle when he's in an accident. Forced to face his human side, he knows he can't survive if he fights alone. But he doesn't want to surrender, even if he becomes the sacrifice for war.
Jessica's memory isn't the only thing she's lost. Her desire to find her parents is gone and so is her confidence. But when fate leaves nightmares behind, she decides to find the boy she sees in them, even if it risks her sanity.
Seconds Before Sunrise is the exciting sequel to Minutes Before Sunset by Shannon A. Thompson. Find out why readers are enthralled with the Timely Death Trilogy.
Most of my favorite authors are indie or self-pubbed, what made you decide to go that route?
I actually fell into it, and I’m glad I did! I absolutely love it. Back before the Kindle days, my first novel was published by a sponsor for teens, but I left the market to attend college. That’s when I began my blog, and a publisher approached me with a deal. After working with them for two years, they closed down, and my readers’ encouragement came out in full force! With their help, I signed with Clean Teen Publishing, and my journey has continued ever since.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
Recently, I realized I’m a slow writer. I know that sounds like something I would always know, but I think I considered myself a fast writer since I could finish a book in a decent amount of time. When I took a step back, however, I realized I rewrite my novels numerous times before I feel like it’s “right” and ready. On top of that, an idea needs to rattle around in my brain for a year or so before I start writing it. The only reason I appear to be quick is because I have so many novels at various stages. It’s silly, I know, but I believe there’s a pressure in the industry to be a “fast” writer, so it was difficult to be honest about my speed, even to myself.
Which of your characters are you most like? Least like?
In The Timely Death Trilogy, I’m probably most like Jessica and the least like Crystal, which is funny when I think about it because they’re the closest female-female relationship in the trilogy. While Jessica is focused and quiet (unless she needs to be assertive), Crystal is loud and clear in both her attitude and clothes. I can relate to having a best friend that’s almost your stark opposite in attitude and style. I think there’s a balance in it, but more importantly, an acceptance that people are different than you and you can still be friends.
Do you have a particular writing habit??
I used to think so, but my writing “habits” change over time. For instance, I never used to write with music on, but now I do. I currently spend most of my writing time at a local coffee house, listening to 8track.coms with a giant cup of Americano by my side.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? If you had to choose, which writer would you consider the biggest influence in your writing?
Meg Cabot. I’ve never personally met her, although it is a dream of mine, but her novels were the first stories I remembered reading as a teenager and feeling like the female leads didn’t conform in any way. Some rode motorcycles and some still liked princess dresses, and there were no apologies for just being you anywhere. The day she followed me on Twitter is a day I’ll never forget. I fell out of my chair. Literally.
Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Sure! (Although they might just be new to me.) Maria Dahvana Headley, Marie Rutkoski, Marissa Meyer, and Amy A. Bartol.
What is the hardest part of your writing?
Staying true to the story. More often than not, when I’m in the middle of a rewrite, I realize I held back on a few things. Maybe it was an uncomfortable scene or character. Maybe it was simply difficult to write. But staying true is vital, and therefore, sometimes the hardest part.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
I always say to create your own mantra. I know it’s odd, but I think it helps. Mine is “Write with passion; succeed with self-discipline.” It reminds me why I write (love), and what it takes to reach my personal goals (and that means missing out on a few weekend getaways so I can finish that next chapter).
Describe yourself in three words.
Cat-lover coffee-addicted wanderer.
I know characters are like children but if you could chose, who’s your favorite from your books?
From The Timely Death Trilogy, I loved Jonathon Stone (a.k.a. Pierce) the most. Whether he was in his human form or his shade form, he always kept me on my toes, made me laugh, and broke my heart. Without him, I doubt the story would’ve flowed as well. He was very much the soul of the group.
Any song or songs that could basically sum up the overall mood of your writing?
For The Timely Death Trilogy, I mainly listened to Stateless, the XX, Florence + Machine, Jem, and a few others. (I could go on and on.) I actually have a playlist on 8tracks.com for those interested: Minutes Before Sunset Playlist
But the main two songs I remember are “Crystalized” by the XX and “Bloodstream” by Stateless.
Do you plot out your books or just freely write them and let the characters tell you what to do next?
I am a plotter! I always start with a very detailed plot. In fact, I basically write a screenplay beforehand, but more often than not, it changes. (And then I rewrite it and change it some more.) That being said, my characters are most definitely in charge. I can never defy them.
What are your current projects? Can you share a little of your current work with us?
I’m currently working on the rewrite of November Snow, which was my first published novel. I feel like it never got its chance, so I’ve made it a point to make it happen. I recently finished it, which leaves me to do a read through before sending it off to my editor. November Snow is a YA fantasy/dystopian novel about bad bloods. "Bad bloods" is a term for a group of people born with limiting supernatural abilities and/or physical deformities. The term came from a war where they were massacred and their blood filled the streets, but that’s all I’m releasing for now.
Thank you so much, Shannon, for stopping by and talking with me today, it has been a lot of fun getting to know you!!
Shannon A. Thompson is a twenty-three-year-old author, avid reader, and habitual chatterbox. She was merely sixteen when she was first published, and a lot has happened since then. Thompson's work has appeared in numerous poetry collections and anthologies, and her first installment of The Timely Death Trilogy became Goodreads' Book of the Month.
Grab your copy of Book One in the Timely Death Trilogy, currently FREE on Amazon!
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