Character Interview by Michelle M. Pillow with Tamara from Merely Mortal
Welcome to an exclusive character interview with me, Michelle M. Pillow, the acclaimed author of Merely Mortal, and my victim—I mean, main character. Today, we have a special guest, Tamara, the protagonist of my new urban fantasy novel. She’s here to share her experiences and thoughts as she navigates her extraordinary journey. And Tamara, just a friendly reminder, I’m working on the second book, Mostly Shattered. Keep that in mind as we chat.
Michelle: Hey, Tamara!
Tamara: Oh, no. What now?
Michelle: How’ve you been?
Tamara: I’ve had my ups and downs. Surviving your plot twists is a full-time job, but I’m hanging in there.
Michelle: So, are you mad at me for everything I put you through in Merely Mortal?
Tamara: Mad? That’s putting it lightly. You threw me into one life-threatening situation after another. Did you have to make it so complicated?
Michelle: I know, it was tough. But look at you now, stronger than ever!
Tamara: Thanks… I think.
Michelle: Speaking of tough, what was the hardest part about being a mortal in a family full of supernaturals?
Tamara: Constantly feeling like the odd one out. Watching everyone around me wield amazing powers while I struggled with my own limitations was disheartening. But it also pushed me to discover my own strengths and prove that being mortal doesn’t make me any less significant.
Michelle: That’s a great way to look at it. Was there a moment in the book where you thought, “Really, Michelle? You’re making me do this?”
Tamara: Oh, absolutely. The vampire ambush, the encounter with the soul eater, the explosion incident, the parent drama, the bus, and the police—
Michelle: Don’t you think you’re being a tad dramatic?
Tamara:
Michelle: Did you say something?
Tamara:
Michelle: Anyway, do you ever wish I’d given you some supernatural abilities?
Tamara: It would’ve been helpful. If I had to choose, I’d want the power to heal. It’s compassionate and could save so many lives. Or maybe the ability to throw fireballs at authors who enjoy making my life difficult.
Michelle: Healing is a noble choice. How did you handle balancing your mortal limitations with the supernatural world?
Tamara: It was a constant struggle. I had to get creative and find ways to contribute despite my lack of powers. It’s an ongoing challenge, but I’m learning to adapt.
Michelle: That’s admirable. If you could share one message with the readers, what would it be?
Tamara: Embrace your strengths, whatever they may be. You don’t need supernatural powers to make a difference. Believe in yourself and your abilities. And maybe brace yourself for surprises—my journey is far from over. It will get easier, right, Michelle?
Michelle: Let’s just say… things will continue to be interesting.
Tamara: Uh…
Michelle: Thanks for stopping by, Tamara! It was enlightening to hear your side of the story.
Tamara: I’m just hoping for fewer near-death experiences in the next book. Is that too much to ask?
Michelle: Oh, that’s adorable. We’ll see! Thanks again, Tamara. Now, get back on those pages like a good little protagonist.
“Merely Mortal” is now available in ebook and print. Book 2, “Mostly Shattered,” is up for preorder. No characters were harmed in the making of this interview… well, not too much.
Author Bio
Michelle M. Pillow is a prolific NY Times & USA TODAY bestselling author with over a million books sold. Though she writes in many genres, she is best known for romance and mystery. Her rich world-building creates portals for the imagination. She is a winner of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. Fan favorites include the Qurilixen World (a multi-series collection), Order of Matic series, and Warlocks MacGregor series. Though she writes intricate plots, she can never seem to remember where she left her coffee cup (if you find it please return).
She loves to interact with readers. Visit her at MichellePillow.com.
Links:
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Website – https://michellepillow.com
Merely Mortal (Merely Mortal Series #1)
A gripping new first-person POV urban fantasy romance series by NY Times and USA Today bestselling author, Michelle M. Pillow.
All I want is a simple, normal life.
Unfortunately, normalcy is a luxury I can’t afford as a lowly human born into a powerful supernatural family embroiled in magic. They’ve always been quick to remind me that I have an expiration date. Imagine everyone’s surprise when it’s me standing above their graves, not the other way around.
The fire that took their lives wasn’t my fault, yet everyone is blaming me, especially the vampires. Now I have a target on my back and a bounty on my head. Without the protection of my family, I’m caught up in a tangled web of supernatural dynasties and arcane power struggles.
So when a handsome stranger and his young daughter take pity on me and offer me a ride, I don’t say no. It’s a mistake. One I hope doesn’t cost us all our lives.
Sometimes, being merely mortal really sucks.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0D55HDLHQ
Category: On Writing
Thank you for having me (us!!) 🙂