What does it mean to be human?
It sounds quite a profound question that is worth pondering on, and while there are a number of reasonable and satisfactory answers to this, we might find Indigo Jewels’ answer insightful. Indigo is the author of Human, and in this interview, she shares with us what really makes us human. She also talks about the inspiration behind her book and gives her own definition of success. She includes the main theme of Human, providing us an overview of it and what we can learn from this story.
Let’s get to know her more through her responses to our questions below:
1. What was the inspiration for the story?
I wrote Human for three very different reasons. One, I recently moved across the country and had a difficult time figuring out who I was. Two, I hated how a lot of stories about soul mates forced people together and the power dynamics between the two. For example, a book about a male alpha and a female omega, where she could have tried to defy the world but ended up with an abusive partner. Or how there is this badass of a woman, but she suddenly turns into a damsel in distress, needing to be saved whenever she gets herself into a situation she may or may not have caused. This leads to my third reason. I wanted a story where characters had to face the consequences of their actions and deal with the emotions that come with it. I wanted this version of Human to emphasize that, because emotions can get the better of us even on our best days. It’s tough and annoying at times, but it’s what makes us entirely human.
2. Does one of the main characters hold a special place in your heart? If so, why?
I think both Adrian and Aria hold a special place in my heart for different reasons. Aria was first, because I wanted her to be someone the reader could relate to. I wanted to model her after my own experience as a teenager, to an extent of course. In a lot of ways, Aria remained consistent throughout the various manuscripts. Adrian’s character, on the other hand, grew on me as the book went through different phases. In the beginning, he wasn’t totally flushed out—not in the way he is now. However, in the rewrite, Adrian is less statuesque and more realistic. He has his own set of emotions and responsibilities that he never asked for but has to deal with. While Aria gives us the normal side of things and her own challenges, Adrian shows us the supernatural elements. They both have their own demons, and their struggles are what make them both very special to me.
3. What do you hope your readers take away from this book?
It’s okay to not be okay. You don’t have to have it together all day every day.
4. What can readers expect from your book?
Readers can expect a soft, sweet, and slow burn towards romance. However, there is a greater emphasis on the friendship built along the way, with side characters who aren’t easily forgotten.
5. Have you always wanted to be a writer?
No, I have not. Fortunately, I was given the opportunity to publish “Human” through Typewriter Pub.
6. Describe your perfect book hero or heroine.
I don’t have one. There are so many different types of heroes. Even with villains, I can’t seem to find a set of characteristics that would make them perfect.
7. What does success mean to you? What is the definition of success?
Oh, this one is hard. Success comes in different forms. For example, doing my exercise routine when I’m feeling lazy is a success, or teaching something that captures the attention of the whole class is also a success. As long as it is not self-destruction or stagnation, then it’s a win.
8. What advice would you give to a writer working on their first book?
I haven’t got a clue. Personally, when I wrote Human the first go around, it was all on whimsy. Whenever I felt like writing something, I wrote. However, it was always geared towards a specific scene in my head that’s always replaying until I had it written down. This is usually how it works for me and my other stories.
Indigo Jewel had lived in a Minnesota suburb, but when she was fourteen, her family decided to move in Southern Nevada. She started writing stories and eventually wrote the book Human, which took her nearly a year and a half to finish. She now studies at a local university.
You can connect with her on Instagram @Indigo_Jewelofficial. She hopes to hear from you soon!
