Metaltown, where factories rule, food is scarce, and hope is in short supply. We’ve talked to Kristen Simmons about her new book.
Welcome to SFFWorld Kristen, many thanks for giving us some time here. In your own words, who is Kristen Simmons?
Thank YOU for having me! I’m thrilled to be here! Ok, let’s see. Kristen Simmons is a mom, wife, writer, reader, booty-shaker, and lover of cupcakes and caffeine.
Can you tell us a bit about your new book, Metaltown? What do you feel is unique about your story?
Metaltown is a story about three teens connected to a factory. Each day Ty, Colin, and Lena fight for their lives and freedom in different ways, whether that be searching for non-contaminated food and water, fending off the gangsters from across the beltway, or surviving a dangerous situation at home. When one of them gets hurt, they band together to fight against the wealthy factory owner, a man who has a strong interest in keeping them working, not just because he’s losing money if they don’t, but because they’re building ammunition necessary to support their side in the war. Striking, or pressing back, as it’s called in the story, leads to bigger, more dangerous complications than they ever imagined.
Despite all the harsh conditions of their lives, this is a story about the enduring power of friendship – the trials friends face, and the strength of the bonds between us. I hope that’s what readers take away. That friendship is powerful. That hope can bind even the most different people to a common purpose. And that we all deserve to be treated with dignity and fairness.
Can you give us some insight into your main characters?
Absolutely! Ty is my favorite character I’ve ever written. She’s rough and tough – she was raised on the streets and knows how to survive on little. Colin came to Metaltown by different circumstances. He grew up in the middle class, across the beltway in Bakerstown, and still dreams of a better world out there somewhere. The friendship between he and Ty is a crucial part of the story, and one of the things I most enjoyed writing. Finally, Lena is the wealthy daughter of the factory owner. She may have grown up with money, but her house is cold, and her brother and father are dangerous men. Aligning herself with factory workers is a dangerous game, but she believes in doing what’s right, even if it risks her own safety.
What new challenges did you set for yourself with this book?
Different point of views! This is the first story I’ve published with alternating view points. There are three, and each one came with its own challenges and joys. I loved being in each of their heads!
You’ve said that this is your favorite story among the ones you’ve written, why is that?
Because, to me, the characters were so easy to play with. They broke my heart, and made me cheer, and I love characters that can do that.
What is it with the dystopian setting you find fascinating?
I love strong, tenacious characters. The darker the setting, the stronger they have to be to survive it. Metaltown is dark, I’m warning you, but Ty, Colin, and Lena shine brightly (I hope!).
How did you start writing? Was there a particular book or moment in your life that spurned you on?
I started writing a long time ago. It’s one of the first things I remember doing – penning stories about my dog and cat (They went to the Olympics once!). It wasn’t until high school that a teacher told me I was good at it – he read my essay on Great Expectations to the class, and though I was completely embarrassed, it was the first time that I had enough self confidence to actually consider writing a full book. I finished my first in college, though it would take me several more years to get published.
What sort of challenges, as a writer, might you have faced before your first book was published? Any insights you would be able to share for those aspiring writers seeking advice?
I faced many challenges. I tried to get four other books published before my first book, ARTICLE 5, was picked up by a publisher. I sent out query letters and received rejections from over two hundred agents. It was heartbreaking. It took me ten years until I signed a contract with my agent. Some time had to pass to help me realize how important those trials were. They made me a better writer, because with each rejection I actually did get a little better. I found an agent who is perfect for me and a good home for my work. My advice? Never give up. If this is what you’re supposed to do, do it. Dedicate yourself, and keep fighting.
How do you go about the marketing aspect and especially related to your online presence? Anything you’ve seen work better than other things?
I wish I was better at this, but mostly I’m just trying to watch what works and do my best. I love connecting with people on Twitter, and you can reach me on Facebook and Instagram as well. People seem to really like teasers about an upcoming book, so I try to keep up with posts like this: https://mobile.twitter.c
What’s next? Do you have more new and exciting projects you’re working on?
I do! I’m working on edits for another stand alone story set in a world where the polar ice caps have melted. I can’t tell you much just yet, but it includes pirates, the president’s son, and lots of shenanigans. Can’t wait to tell you more!
Thanks again for having me! Hope everyone enjoys Metaltown!
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Interview by Dag Rambraut – SFFWorld.com © 2016
