Emiline Fjell Interview

CJ: Welcome back, humans! If you like epic fantasy, you’ll love this month’s guest. I’m honored to introduce author Emiline Fjell. Emiline, I can’t wait to start talking about your current projects, but first, care to introduce yourself?

EF: Absolutely! Thanks so much for having me! As you said, my name is Emiline. I am 28 years old, was homeschooled and now am homeschooling my own, and my husband and I homestead in ND!

CJ: Your story is so inspiring. I have a lot of respect for anyone who manages to write while already having kids. What inspired you to write To Bind Fire?

EF: Well now, that’s a loaded question. I’ve always been a lover of the written word, but my writing found new purpose after I nearly died in childbirth. Contrary to what you may have seen in movies, this is not a very common condition! I had so much PTSD to deal with after the event, and I learned so many hard truths about myself, the world, and God. To Bind Fire is born of the horrors I experienced and the incredible healing my savior brought me; indeed, I can honestly say that if the event had not occurred, I would not be where I am today. And where I am today is awesome.

CJ: Woah! I’m so sorry you experienced that, but it sounds like you learned a lot from a terribly difficult experience. Your strength really inspires me. What particularly draws you to the YA fantasy genre?

EF: I tried Dystopian, but COVID stole all my enjoyment of that genre, at least for the time being.  Fantasy is better, at least for me, because it is the freest genre. You are free to explore literally any question because it’s your world. I also love creating parallels, which is best suited to the Fantasy genre. I write YA because that is what I like to read, and because even though I’m technically old now, with my own kids and everything, I vibe best with the teens.

CJ: I’ve heard a lot of people say similar things in regard to dystopian. Fantasy is definitely fantastic escapism, and you’re absolutely correct about the freedom it provides. And parallels are always exciting. I love your young spirit! Now that you’ve finished drafting your novel, what part of the publishing process seems to be most daunting? Most exciting?

EF: Ugh! Writing the first draft was definitely the fun part. I am not digging the editing thing! But as daunting as editing is, what is far more daunting is the thought that when I’m done editing, it will be time to query. If the traditional publishers don’t dig what I’m doing, I’ll go indie; but before that point I suspect I will have to hear a lot of ‘no’s. I am disappointed, to say the least, by the current political climate and what concepts are being pushed on readers, and I don’t intend to compromise.

CJ: Absolutely! It’s so important not to compromise our values in this day and age. Whether you end up going traditional or indie, I cannot wait to see the quality story you’ve written. Speaking of values, I know Dorothy has taken inspiration from many great Christian authors. Who are some of your biggest influences, and how do you hope to honor them with your work? 

EF: My single biggest inspiration is definitely C.S Lewis. From his more conceptual works to his fiction, C.S Lewis is both one of the most loved and most controversial authors in all of history. If I can be half as controversial as he was, I’ll have accomplished all I dream of in life. 

CJ: I love that! Lewis is definitely a great inspiration. I have no doubt that you’ll achieve your dream, especially in today’s cultural climate. Dorothy, your story is incredibly inspiring, and I’m so glad I got to learn from you today. Where can people find you?

EF: Right here on Instagram is the best way right now! You’ll find teasers, funny writing truths, and just plain fun at @dorothy_emeline_author! When my books release I’ll definitely be posting about it!  Thanks so much for having me here, CJ!

CJ: Anytime! This has been one of my most inspiring interviews so far. I hope any readers out there can see how amazing and wonderful your spirit is.

That’s the end of our interview for today, but it’s been an honor to talk to Emiline! Definitely keep your eye on her for inspiring and just plain awesome content. I’ll be back with a super special guest next month, but until then, fly safe, everybody!