My own adoption. Growing up, I always wondered about the why, and the story behind it. The only information I knew was that my father was Australian.
Did you have to research for this novel, and if so, what, and why?
I’ve been fascinated with the culture and history of Australia since I was young. Some historical and scientific research was done, but really the world is unto itself a place of Fantasy. The Colony has its own rules in the story.
If you did research, what do you think surprised you most to learn, and why?
Biological mutation and adaptation due to environmental changes. How a foreign species will adapt in surprising ways to accommodate a change when needed.
Do you feel your character is relatable for readers of all ages? Absolutely! Amelia is a strong young woman, just in the beginning of her adulthood, but the moral compass she has in unwavering. She holds true to herself and who she is. She’s the kind of young woman I want to see my daughter grow in to.
Is your protagonist anything like you personally?
If yes, then how?
He quick-wittedness. Her verbal comebacks. That’s all me!
If not, then how do you differ from one another?
The most obvious being that my adoption story ends somewhat anti-climatic in comparison to Amelia’s. Although, if The Colony does truly exist, I couldn’t say . . .
What should readers know about your protagonist?
That she is strong-willed, but she also has her faults. She can be impulsive, she can act rashly, and she can make mistakes. I wanted to paint Amelia as lifelike as I could.
Why are they important to you?
When I set out to build a strong connection for readers and Amelia, I didn’t want them to see her as infallible. We all make mistakes, even Amelia, as we will see later in the series. We all have struggles; we all have conflicts to overcome. It’s how we choose to overcome them that matters.
Do you consider the main character to be good or bad, and why?
Amelia is very much pure of heart and intentions. She loves deeply, fights for the things she believes in, protects the people she loves, and makes sacrifices for the good of The Colony itself.
What’s the objective of your character?
To form an untied community, once separate, they will work toward building a permanent alliance rather than a tentative truce. There are boundaries to overcome. There are resentments that run deep, and differing lifestyles that must be accepted for this to work. Acceptance of others is a very key theme in this Series. Including self-acceptance.
Is there anything specific you’d like readers to know about this piece of work?
That it is a true piece of me. Straight from the heart. As an Author I’m deeply invested in the story and the characters. When they hurt, I hurt. When they grieve, I grieve. Nearly everything I write comes from a personal space.
Is there a moral or idea you’re trying to convey – if yes, what, and why?
Acceptance, as I said earlier. There is a social construct in place that’s been accepted for hundreds of years. Not everyone is open to change. Not everyone is willing to accept the ideals or cultures of others, and it’s a political undertone that I really hope comes through for some readers. Amelia believes in this, and she’s willing to do what it takes to bring this vision about.
Is this novel a standalone?
This is the first in a four-book series. There will be more!
If it is included in a series or collection, what is the name and which installment is it?
The Uluru Legacy Series
If it is the first installment of a series or collection, when can we expect to see the next book published?
Garkain is the first in the series. Larougo: Book Two of The Uluru Legacy Series will be releasing November 2nd.
If it is a part of a book series or collection, can it be enjoyed as a standalone novel or must it be read sequentially to experience the full realm of the tale?
No, this is a continuous series, and the plot arc that is within the series.
Where can readers connect with you and purchase your book?
My website: https://www.AnnaJWalner.com, and I am active on most social media. I love to connect with readers!
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