Author Kate Chenli discusses her inspirations and gives io9 readers a sneak peak at the first two chapters of A Bright Heart.
I was a fantasy reader before I was a fantasy writer. I’ve always been fascinated with the concept of magic. As a child, I often dreamed of possessing magic . When I read fantasy, I enjoy getting lost in the rich imaginary worlds where the characters become alive.I wanted to create such fantastic worlds myself. Writing allowed me to expand on ancient legends and mythology that I’ve always loved. Moreover, I wanted to create lifelike characters, especially strong women who inspire young girls.
As soon as the jailers dump me onto the hard floor of the carriage, it starts moving. I curl into myself. Where is the driver taking me? The execution block?The image of Royal Lady Bai’s lifeless body hanging from a rafter in her cell pops into my head. “We’re all going to die,” she said just yesterday. “The Royal Ladies, the princes, and you. Ren has accused us all of treason.” She stared at me with feverish eyes, all her dignity gone. “His edict declared that we conspired together.
He eases away. “The assassin confessed that you and my brothers commissioned his service.” Each word is as sharp as a knife. I can’t believe they come from Ren, but they do.“I didn’t. I blocked his sword . . . with my body . . . when he ran at you. You saw it.” Every muscle spasms as I struggle to point to the wound where the assassin’s blade pierced my shoulder. But none of the pain compares to what I feel inside.
I bite on my lip until I taste blood. How I wish I hadn’t been so desperate for love, for a family after Mother’s passing, that I held on to him despite my suspicions about his true feelings for me.In despair, my hand reaches for the stone pendant hanging around my neck. Father’s family heirloom I’ve worn since childhood, given to me for his belief in my worth. It’s of no value to anyone but me, so the jailers didn’t rob me of it.
Mai had been my handmaiden until Aylin caught her stealing—an offense often punished by having the thief’s hand chopped off.Guilt slashes through me. I trusted Aylin’s word instead of my maid’s plea of innocence. Despite my shame, I begged Aylin not to have Mai maimed. The last time I saw her, my uncle’s steward was selling her to a servant trader.I open my mouth to apologize to her, but then she moves farther into the room with a lively bounce in her step.
“I love you, too, Shin’ar. And you’ve already made me very, very happy.” She pokes gently at my chest, a familiar, comforting gesture that holds special significance for me: Mingshin, my name, meansTears prick my eyes. Quickly I turn away. Only then do I notice the young woman standing next to Mai. It’s Ning, Mother’s loyal handmaiden, who “accidently” drowned along with her. After Ren’s confession, I’m sure he and my cousin Bo murdered Ning as well.
Brasil Últimas Notícias, Brasil Manchetes
Similar News:Você também pode ler notícias semelhantes a esta que coletamos de outras fontes de notícias.
SF Giants rookie catcher’s first MLB hit a lone bright spot in lossMLB: San Francisco Giants ace Logan Webb threw six shutout innings as he continued his string of strong starts
Consulte Mais informação »
First Alert Forecast: Bright and warm Sunday, mostly dry week aheadAfter a soggy Saturday, things are looking much better to close out the weekend. Expect a bright and warm afternoon with highs in the mid 70s.
Consulte Mais informação »
Britney Griner stars in loss to Sky; a bright spot in a sad journeyPlaying a home game for the Phoenix Mercury for ther first time since being released from a Russian prison, Britney Griner played a great game. But the Sky pulled out a 75-69 victory Sunday to improve to 2-0.
Consulte Mais informação »
Jennifer Aniston debuts an updated take on the 'The Rachel' cut featuring bright blonde highlightsWe expect to see this brightened blonde everywhere
Consulte Mais informação »
Mermaid Nails Are The Trendiest Way to Make a Statement This SummerColorful, chrome finishes and bright summer nail art trends are just waiting to be poolside.
Consulte Mais informação »
Photos: Hundreds gather in Anchorage for Alaska Heart Run & WalkParticipants in this year’s Alaska Heart Run & Walk in Anchorage — an event hosted by the American Heart Association — raised nearly $250,000 for heart disease research, training and advocacy. See more photos here:
Consulte Mais informação »