Adrienne Young Discusses Her Debut Novel ‘Sky In The Deep’

Adrienne Young’s debut novel, *Sky in the Deep*, was released in spring 2018. The YA fantasy centers on a female warrior who discovers that her brother, whom she believed to be dead for five years, is actually alive and fighting for the enemy. The narrative explores her journey to uncover the truth about that fateful day and the years that followed.

In an interview, Young described herself as a Texan-born California girl who enjoys yoga, food, coffee, and wine. She resides in Northern California with her husband, a documentary filmmaker, and their four children.

Young first aspired to be a writer at the age of nine but only began pursuing authorship seriously in her mid-twenties. She shared that the most challenging aspect of her creative process is struggling with inspiration. Often faced with deadlines, she has had to learn to write even when inspiration doesn't come easily.

Regarding her writing process post-publication, Young noted the influx of feedback from various sources, including editors, agents, and fellow writers. This has made it challenging for her to maintain her own voice amid external opinions.

She identified the key elements of good writing as voice, character, and hook. Young believes that a unique voice breathes life into a story, strong characters foster reader attachment, and a compelling hook is crucial to keep readers engaged.

If she could advise her younger self, Young would suggest being patient throughout the querying process, reminding herself to breathe and not feel like a failure.

For new writers, she emphasizes the importance of reading widely, including outside their chosen genres, to understand market trends and successful storytelling.

*Sky in the Deep* stems from the themes of sibling betrayal and unexpected storytelling, emerging into a Viking-inspired fantasy as she developed the plot.

Young hopes readers take away the message that change is a part of growth, and embracing it doesn’t equate to losing one's identity. One character she holds dear is Halvard, a boy who warms the protagonist Eelyn's heart.

Music plays a significant role in her writing, and she created a playlist specifically for *Sky in the Deep*. Currently, she is working on a companion novel to this debut, set to be released in Fall 2019.

Among her book recommendations, Young recommends *The Cruel Prince* by Holly Black and *Sadie* by Courtney Summers.