Leigh Michaels - Annabelle's Story - Guest Post

Guest Post
Inside Annabelle

I’d like to start off by saying, “Poor Annabelle.” In my series, Annabelle’s Story, the girl has multiple personalities. Actually, what I meant to say is that I used multiple persona to help build her character.

Annabelle’s sarcasm is pulled from one friend; her tenacious spirit from another. Her aspiration to become a doctor mimics the ambition of my cousin. When she became upset or mad, I channeled the emotions from a good friend. There was even some of my own personality in there (we happen to share the same zodiac sign).

Research was another outlet that helped to develop Annabelle’s character. Multiple sources all agreed on the same personification. An older sibling, like Annabelle, is typically reliable, conscientious, and a perfectionist. A big sister may also be structured, cautious, and act as a natural leader.

To further bring Annabelle’s character to life, I turned to her zodiac sign. Oddly enough, the element associated with a Capricorn is water. Seems fitting for someone who is half-human, half-sprite, don’t you think? But that’s not all, various other thoughts associated with this sign were sprinkled throughout her behaviors as well, such as:

·      Practice makes perfect

·      Hard work and determination

·      Slow to accept change

·      Loyal to a fault

·      Responsible and dogmatic

·      Selfless

Do you see any of Annabelle’s traits popping out yet? Like how she was hesitant to accept her new role? But afterwards felt bound by her duty to help the sprites?

Oh, and based on the name “Capricorn”, the trait of being capricious doesn’t come as a surprise. Especially after all the changes and emotional heartache Annabelle faced. Sudden changes in her mood and behavior can be seen as the story unfolds.

Let’s take a look at some of the secondary characters as well. Many aren’t as complex. I wrote Annabelle’s parents as replicas of my own. Her sister, a combination of my own brother and another friend. The other secondary characters, like Adrian, Blake, and Natasha, weren’t necessarily inspired by people in my life, but I tried to give each a distinct voice and persona.

For example, you’ll notice that YaYa was the only character in which I didn’t use contractions. By spelling out phrases like “have not” and “they are” it was more fitting to her stoic personality.

I hope this gives you a more in-depth look inside Annabelle. I’d love to hear your thoughts on her character and also her story. 

Also, be sure to stop by Leigh Michael Books on October 31st for a special Trick or Trick surprise!

Series summary:

Annabelle Walsh thought she had it all. She was the star of her swim team, had a loving family, a great boyfriend, and to top it off, she’d be starting at UCLA in the fall. One day, she’d be referred to as Dr. Annabelle Walsh.

She was living every girl’s dream – until her life was turned upside down. All starting with finding out that she's not just a human, but also a water spirit. Half-human, half-sprite to be exact. Although not just any sprite, Annabelle is prophesied to be the only one who can save both the sprites and mankind.

With a mix of current events, anecdotes from Greek mythology, tidbits of folklore, and Leigh’s own imagination, we join Annabelle in her journey to restore order beneath the sea. Each step of the way her mind, body, and soul are pushed to the limit begging the question, how much can one half-human, half-sprite take?

Purchase information:

Sprite (Annabelle’s Story Part One) can be purchased at:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Smashwords

Price: $7.99 paperback, $0.99 ebook
ISBN: B007Z1USE0
Pages: 150
Release: April 2012

Genre: YA paranormal adventure

Kin (Annabelle’s Story Part Two) can be purchased at:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Smashwords

Price: $7.99 paperback, $2.99 ebook
ISBN: B0097UPCES
Pages: 170
Release: September 2012
Genre: YA paranormal adventure

Author Bio:

Leigh Michael is an author of YA fiction. She's worked within the advertising world for nearly a decade before writing her debut series, Annabelle's Story. Leigh lives in Washington, DC with her husband and goldendoodle. Please learn more about Leigh and her works at www.LeighMichaelBooks.com.

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