OBS reviewer Lee, brings us a new interview with author Michaela Debelius and her book ‘Decoy’. They chat about the inspiration behind the characters, research done for the story, love triangles, future character appearances and her next work. Enjoy!
Lee: What inspired the creation of the character of Noel Casey? She’s a great female protagonist who defies a lot of stereotypes.
M.L.: Thank you! I’m really humbled to hear your opinion of Noel. I’ve always had an appreciation for people who aren’t what they appear to be, in a good way, of course. Decoy really formed around Noel Casey, not vice versa. I knew I wanted her to be highly intelligent but have one odd-ball penchant. That’s where the make-up and clothes came in. When you think of a scientist, you think of lab coats and flat sneakers. I certainly don’t draw up fluted skirts and knee-high boots.
Lee: Did you do any research about genetics and biology before writing Decoy?
M.L.: Some information I already knew from my college education. I have a degree, but it has absolutely nothing to do with English or anything related to writing. Everything else was researched. I try to be as accurate as possible when utilizing information I’m not familiar with. Recently, I researched how to pick a lock for an upcoming novel. If the government ever looked into my browser history they’d think I’m a serial-killing thief. It’s kind of disturbing the information that can be found. Surprisingly, I’ve even searched for specific names of clothing items in Noel’s wardrobe. I’m more of a jeans and t-shirt kind of gal.
Lee: What inspired the creation of the character of Noel Casey? She’s a great female protagonist who defies a lot of stereotypes.
M.L.: Thank you! I’m really humbled to hear your opinion of Noel. I’ve always had an appreciation for people who aren’t what they appear to be, in a good way, of course. Decoy really formed around Noel Casey, not vice versa. I knew I wanted her to be highly intelligent but have one odd-ball penchant. That’s where the make-up and clothes came in. When you think of a scientist, you think of lab coats and flat sneakers. I certainly don’t draw up fluted skirts and knee-high boots.
Lee: Did you do any research about genetics and biology before writing Decoy?
M.L.: Some information I already knew from my college education. I have a degree, but it has absolutely nothing to do with English or anything related to writing. Everything else was researched. I try to be as accurate as possible when utilizing information I’m not familiar with. Recently, I researched how to pick a lock for an upcoming novel. If the government ever looked into my browser history they’d think I’m a serial-killing thief. It’s kind of disturbing the information that can be found. Surprisingly, I’ve even searched for specific names of clothing items in Noel’s wardrobe. I’m more of a jeans and t-shirt kind of gal.
See the full interview---->http://openbooksociety.com/article/mi...