Every writer’s journey starts somewhere, but for award winner Elaine Moore, the spark began at just ten years old with a childhood story called "How the pretty flowers got a lovely smell." Today, that lifelong love for English and a wonderfully "over-active" imagination have culminated in her phenomenal YA fantasy book, Zanthee: Guardians Of The Riverbank. 

Inspired by the real-world music of croaking frogs on a rainy day walk, Elaine has crafted a highly original world completely free of traditional dragons and vampires. Instead, she invites readers into a whimsical realm built on unique creatures, deep real-world social commentary, and endless imagination.

We sat down with Elaine to explore how she tackles the dreaded blank page, what inspired her contrasting fantasy lands, and the legendary authors who shaped her own childhood. Let's dive straight into our conversation:

Hello Elaine and a huge welcome to the blog! Let’s start at the beginning—how did you get into writing, and what made you want to become an author?

I've always enjoyed English from primary school age, especially dictation. Sometimes we were required to write short stories, I loved this topic. One, I particularly remembered was called " How the pretty flowers got a lovely smell." I was only 10 years old. I received great grades for my writing and read a lot of books over the years. This stimulated my imagination and creativity. So I wanted to become an author one day.

Love that! It's not surprising you got good grades, and you definitely have an incredible imagination! So, out of all the genres out there, what made you choose fantasy?

Most of the books/ films that I've read or seen over the years were fantasy. This is why it is one of my favourite genre's. Along with Sci-Fi. 

That makes total sense—you definitely write what you love to read! Since you're building these worlds for a younger audience, what’s the secret to writing for teens and YA? Does it come easy for you, or do you have to secretly channel your inner teenager to get it right?

Writing within the fantasy realm seems to come naturally to me.  As I think that I have an over- active" imagination. When I see something in the real world I want to create something cool out of it, whether it's unusual, magic or whimsical.

Having a big imagination is definitely the best superpower for a fantasy writer, and it's amazing how you find such magic in everyday things!

Walk us through your writing process. Where did the idea for Zanthee Guardians Of The Riverbank come from, and what usually comes first for you—the plot, the characters, or the world?

The idea for my book came about when I was out for my daily walk one day and we had a lot of rain the day before. While walking around the creek I could hear the wonderful sound of lots of frogs croaking in amongst the reeds, I stopped for a minute and looked around but I couldn't see them. As, I continued my walk I thought that frogs would be great in a story. A very unique character for a book! When I wrote this story the characters came first as a very important part and each one had an important role to play. 

And those frogs did work out great! It really is incredible how a simple walk can spark such a brilliant idea. 

Our CEO loved the book, especially the contrast between the two lands. She thought it was an amazing way to show students the reality of wealth disparity. Was that deep social commentary intentional, and what else do you hope readers take away from the story?

The difference between the two lands is an important aspect of the book. I did this intentionally to make reading more exciting whilst also reflecting the difference between the rich and poor in our real world. 

It definitely made the book more exciting! We were blown away by how you managed to weave those important real-world issues into a story for teens while keeping it so engaging, well done. Speaking of how you bring these worlds to life, where does the magic actually happen? Are you willing to spill the secrets on your writing setup? Where’s your ultimate writing spot?

Writing can be tough, sometimes we are staring at a blank page. If this happens to me I take a break, maybe put the kettle on and have a cuppa and cake. Or take a walk at my favourite place; the beach and listen to the rolling waves. Then approach the laptop with a fresh mind...

Stepping away to clear your head by the ocean or with a hot drink sounds like the perfect way to reset! Since overcoming that creative block is such a huge part of the process, what’s your number-one piece of advice for aspiring writers who are currently staring at a blank page and struggling? 

Ideas can come in the middle of the night, it's handy to keep a notebook and pen handy to jot down any ideas that come along.

That’s great advice, it really would be a lifesaver when sudden inspiration hits! Your own ideas have led to something truly unique and imaginative. Are you this creative in your everyday, real life, or is it all saved for the pages?

I have been creative since childhood and growing up. I'm very artistic and enjoyed watercolours for a while. Also played bass guitar and sang in a children's band writing my own songs. I wanted to write a unique story, something original and different. There are already so many stories about dragons, wolves and vampires. 

When I think of a character or animals in a book I think to myself "now how can I make this character unique? Add features like pointy ears or wings and some sort of powers or abilities to make them special to readers???" Possibilities are endless...

It sounds like that background gave you a massive head start on bringing those endless possibilities to life! Since you have so many creative outlets, what do you like to do when you’re completely unplugged from writing?

When I'm not writing I love to watch fantasy and sci- fi films. Swim laps at the pool. Spend time with family and loved ones and take long walks along the beach. 

What wonderful ways to switch off, that sounds like the absolute life! Pivoting slightly while we're getting to know you, we’d love to know, who are your all-time favourite authors?

My favourite authors growing up were C.S Lewis, Paul Gallico, Enid Blyton and J.K. Rowling. 

Such legendary names, it must be incredible to see your own work out there now too, so looking back, what’s been the “pinch-me” highlight of your author career so far?

The highlight of my writing career was winning this "Golden Wizard Award !" YAY! 

And we are absolutely thrilled to have you as part of the Golden Wizard family! It really is such a well-deserved win. With things going so well, what’s next on the horizon? Please tell us we're getting more stories from you soon!

I will continue writing fantasy books. Although it may take some time to finish my next one, as I'm busy with work and family life.

Totally understood, we know it will be well worth the wait! Before we sign off, how would you finish this sentence about Zanthee? "You're going to love this book if you..."

...love reading a " fast paced" action story with imaginative and whimsical creatures, that will leave your mind reeling with imagination and wonder...

A huge thank you to Elaine Moore for sharing such a wonderful look into her writing world! Her journey is proof that when you look closely at the world around you, there is magic hidden in the most everyday places. 

Grab your copy of Zanthee: Guardians Of The Riverbank today, keep an eye out for her next fantasy adventure, and don't forget to keep a notebook by your bed tonight—you never know when inspiration will strike!

Thanks for reading!