Shaun M Jooste 
Prepare to be transported to a world where darkness reigns and destinies are forged in the fires of adversity. Join us as we journey into the captivating realm of “The Ice Queen,” the debut novel in Elena van Peborgh’s epic series, “The Queen’s Throne.” Set against a backdrop of supernatural intrigue and ancient prophecies, this mesmerizing tale beckons readers to immerse themselves in a saga of magic, heroism, and unyielding determination.
With the fate of kingdoms hanging in the balance, follow the journey of Madison, a young witch destined to rewrite the course of history. As alliances are forged, secrets are unveiled, and legends are born, discover the transformative power of storytelling in this spellbinding fantasy adventure.
Interview with Elena van Peborgh, Author of The Ice Queen Fantasy Book
1. What initially inspired you to start writing, and how did you embark on your journey as an author?
When I was 8 years old, I made a writing assignment for school. My teacher thought it was really well written and an original idea. So she said I had a talent for writing. This encouraged me to start writing short stories. When I was a teen, I got the idea for Dragon Dream and started working on it. Many people thought my ideas were really original, and people who read parts thought it was well written as well. So, I got a lot of energy from this praise to finish it and keep writing.
2. Can you share a bit about your writing process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that you follow when working on a new project?
Usually I start with a dream and a working title. Mostly I get the big lines from my dream that I remember in the morning, so I know where he story is going and some scenes that will happen along the way, I just need to waive them together and fill a bit up. I also always write on my tablet, that’s handy since I don’t need to open up my computer and I can easily grab it while travelling by train to work.
3. What themes or subjects do you find yourself drawn to the most in your writing, and why?
Fantasy obviously. But that is broad and there are some sub topics in my stories as well. I tend to have strong, stubborn women as main characters and the male antagonists suffer under toxic, abusive dads. The male antagonists try to break the cycle of toxic masculinity that they grew up in.
4. Are there any particular authors or books that have had a significant influence on your writing style or creative approach?
I read Harry Potter when I was little and I read many other books as a teen as well. So I think they all contributed a bit to it, when I read their work. But the authors I looked up the most are Richelle Mead and Cassandra Clare.
5. How do you balance your writing life with other commitments or responsibilities? Do you have any tips for aspiring writers on finding this balance?
I have a day job that pays my bills, yes. I try to write in the evenings and weekends when I’m not working. I found that switching to writing on the tablet worked really well for me. Since that was easier to grab while on the way or just when I was sitting on the couch. And then I can just close my computer since I work on that all day with my day job. That really makes a huge difference in splitting up my day job from my writing, which is more a hobby or something I do that I enjoy.
6. Can you tell us about a particularly memorable moment or experience you’ve had as an author so far?
I’ve always liked working with my granddad on Dragon Dream. He read that story to see if it made sense and if the grammar was correct. He was like my proofreader or editor. Now, he suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, so he can’t really do this anymore. So I really cherish that time, back when he was still healthy.
7. What do you hope readers take away from your work? Are there any messages or themes that you strive to convey through your writing?
For women, I try to teach them it’s okay to be strong and stubborn. They can say no and they aren’t difficult or anything. Back as a kid I was silent and I let people walk over me, so I learned to speak up. Some people were really awful, treating me almost like they treated hysterical women in the middle ages. Just because I spoke up and said no or that it wasn’t okay.
For men, I try to make them realise that the whole alpha and beta male thing is ridiculous. I realise that some were raised under toxic masculinity or were encouraged by friends. But you can fight it and break the cycle. Maybe you will be considered weak or be laughed at by other men, but in the end they can’t really do much to you.
And for everyone I try to give a message in my stories about breaking the cycle of generational trauma. You can realise your dreams and make your own life. It might take a long time. It might be a lot of work. And it probably won’t be easy, but just keep trying. I really believe in karma and the power of the universe and I believe eventually you will get what you deserve. That might be good or bad.
8. How do you approach character development and world-building in your stories? Are there any techniques or strategies that you find particularly effective?
I try to look up actors for my characters, that helps me to describe how they look physically. I do the same with buildings and scene. I look up something that I think which will fit and base my description on what I find and see.
9. What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting on their own writing journeys?
You need to find your own approach for what works best for you. Everyone has their own rituals for writing. Also, everyone has their own ideas and opinions, so not everyone will like your work. But if the general consensus is that people think it’s good, especially people who read your genre, just ignore the few haters who criticise you. Have a few trusted friends or readers and if they tell you something doesn’t work well, it’s probably true. But you can’t please everyone or keep making changes and edits, because then you will never publish your stories.
10. Finally, can you share any details about upcoming projects or works-in-progress that your fans can look forward to?
I am working on the next book in the series of The Queen’s Throne. It will follow after The Ice Queen. I already have a name for it: The Witch Queen. It will follow Madison struggling in the political landscape. But don’t worry, it won’t all be boring politics. The demon(s) will return. And I plan to write at least one epic battle.
Unveiling the Tapestry of Creativity: Insights from Author Elena van Peborgh
Elena van Peborgh’s journey into the realm of storytelling is a testament to the transformative power of imagination and resilience. From the tender age of 8, she embarked on a path fueled by a passion for crafting worlds where strength, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit reign supreme. Through her introspective exploration of themes like strength, identity, and breaking the cycle of generational trauma, Elena invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
As she continues to weave narratives that captivate the imagination and inspire introspection, Elena’s dedication to her craft shines brightly. Her commitment to authenticity, coupled with her unique storytelling voice, ensures that each tale she pens resonates deeply with readers.
Join Elena van Peborgh on an extraordinary adventure into the fantastical world of “The Ice Queen.” Dive into a tale brimming with magic, destiny, and unyielding determination. Available now, this captivating novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and those seeking stories that stir the soul. Embrace the journey and uncover the power of storytelling today.
