Could You Tell Us About Yourself?
My name is Paul Rouse and I currently live in Greenville, South Carolina. Since I was little, I’ve been an avid reader and writer. At the age of 11, I wrote my first complete story, and when I turned 13 I’d completed my first full-scale novel titled The Millionaires Case. While I decided not to publish this book, it ultimately prepared me for writing Stugo the Novel, which I’m thrilled to announce will release on April 7th!
What made you write your book(s)?
Stugo the Novel began when I wrote down ideas in my journal for a short story I planned to write. Having served on school student governments, I was fascinated with the idea of what the world would look like if teenagers were in power, and adults were out of the picture. I nailed down specific points like the names of characters, as well as general ideas such as my wish for the story to be set in a world of my making. From these quick notes, the rough draft of Stugo the Novel came to be.
The novel also stems from the struggles I endured in middle school. Writing became my escape and allowed me to process this troubled time in my life. Through Stugo the Novel, I hope to shine a light on mental health as well as bullying. While I won’t go into specifics, I have dealt with both and can say that neither is easy to talk about. In a world where you are told to hide your true self and conform to society’s norms, I hope Stugo the Novel will shed light on the fact that there is no such thing as normal. Everyone is beautiful in their way and it’s important to let your light shine bright.
What’s your favorite book?
My favorite book would have to be King of Scars by Leigh Bardugo. I love how thoroughly she develops her characters, and how elegant the plot is.
Do you listen to music while you write your book (s)?
I do! I love to listen to music while I write because it helps me focus on what I’m trying to put into words. I also love to tune my music to the type of scene I’m trying to write. For example, if I’m attempting to write a dramatic scene then I’ll listen to dramatic music.
Where do you get your idea (s) for your book (s)?
All my ideas for my book came from both my imagination and personal experiences. To put this into perspective, in Stugo the Novel the nation of Carmona came completely from my imagination. In one sitting I managed to create the entire back story for the nation. I began with creating the nation’s noble leader, President Ash, who you’ll learn more about in the novel. From there, I imagined a nation where a monarchy and a modern democracy came together to make the nation of Carmona. Concerning my personal experiences, an example would be how I designed the Rightful System Capitol School after high school, as well as mansions I’ve visited throughout Europe and the United States.
What part of the book was the most fun to write?
The ending of Stugo the Novel was a blast to write because I decided to take it in a direction I believe my readers won’t expect. I won’t go into too much detail but the final chapter was my absolute favorite to write because it showcases how grief and anger can make a person do things they’d never thought to attempt before.
What is a significant way your book has changed since the first draft?
Since putting pen to paper, I have been able to develop my characters far better than I originally had. I have also been able to perfect the plot and setting, which will help my readers have a more immersive experience. Last but least, I have been able to perfect the novel’s grammatical errors with the help of my amazing editor, Kerry Bannister.
What was your hardest scene to write?
The beginning of Stugo the Novel was the hardest to write because there was a lot of information I felt the reader should know before the story began to pick up.
How long did it take for you to write a book?
In total it took me three years to write Stugo the Novel.
Did you get some negative feedback on your book? and if so how do you deal with that?
I’ve never received flat-out negative feedback. I have received critiques but I view these as opportunities to make my book the best it can be.
Where can people who are interested in your book, buy your book?
You’ll be able to find a link to purchase your very own copy of Stugo the Novel on April 7th by visiting the official Stugo the Novel Website
Please also don’t forget to follow Stugo the Novel on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on all the exciting developments!
To prepare for Stugo the Novel’s release don’t forget to read Chaos Becoming
Paul Rouse Media Links
Politics, Books and Me 