As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
This is an interesting question. I have always loved music and I wanted to be a talent scout for a record company. The closest I ever came to living my dream of working in the music industry, I worked as an on-air radio announcer. I got to play records, cut commercials and interviewed musical guests. I had a blast!
Do you play music while you write — and, if so, what’s your favorite?
I always play music while writing. Music can create a mood, which stirs the imagination. I play music that fits the scene I’m writing. I find music also helps with writer’s block. My favorite music: Instrumental, Classical, Electronica, World Music, and Pop/Rock. If anyone is interested, I have the playlist to Between Heaven and Saturn on my blog.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
Between Heaven and Saturn is book two of the Eye of Saturn vampire series. I wanted to be consistent and create a brand for the series. Each book in the series will have Saturn in the title.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?
I would have given anything to spend a day with Anne Rice.
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?
I am finishing up book three in the Eye of Saturn series. I plan to have it released spring/summer of 2026. I can share this much about the book: Time is running out for Felipe. He only has two months before the Eye of Saturn reopens. It is imperative that he finds his beloved Zaybeth and turn her into a vampire before the Eye opens or risk having to face her in a battle to the death.
What advice would you give to a writer working on their first book?
I would advise a writer working on their first book to plot everything out first. Secondly, take the time to develop the characters. I would also advise the writer to keep on writing. Life will sometimes get in the way, but don’t let that stop you from writing. Oh, and keep a notebook handy to jot down notes/ideas. You never know when inspiration will hit. Inspiration often happens at the most inopportune time—weddings, funerals, while sleeping, while driving, during an important meeting…etc.
What part of the book was the most fun to write?
Between Heaven and Saturn is divided into two parts, Old World and New World. Writing the New World section was the most fun because it takes place in the old south—Richmond, VA. There are southern belles, sipping lemonade on the front porch gossiping. Felipe gets into some interesting trouble with these southerners, that has nothing to do with the fact he’s a vampire. This section of the book is such a departure from Romania and Dracula, I think readers will enjoy the contrast.
What was your hardest scene to write, and why?
The battle scenes were the hardest to write because I’ve never been in the military and I hate war. Between Heaven and Saturn involves a lot of history, taking on the epic battles between the Ottoman Turkish Empire and Wallachia—Vlad Dracula’s III army. I needed to get the facts and events correct for historical accuracy. I hope I did Dracula justice. Of course, I had to incorporate the vampire/paranormal aspect into the battle scenes, which made writing the battle scenes more challenging.
What would you say to an author who wanted to design their own cover?
I designed both book covers for the Eye of Saturn vampire series. I would say to any author who wanted to design their own cover, do it! If you’re a graphic artist, go for it. If you are not a graphics wiz, there are tons of royalty-free photos, videos and artwork to choose from. It’s a way for the author to take control of their project and truly make it a brand.
What, to you, are the most important elements of good writing?
The most important elements of good writing, in my humble opinion, is creating an interesting plot, filled with twists and turns and action that keeps readers turning the page, Secondly, having an interesting setting, which can include world-building or choosing an exotic locale(s). Thirdly, creating unforgettable characters that readers will love, cheer for, and hate. There’s nothing better than an antagonist readers loves to hate.
Website: www.idalitawrightraso.com
Blog: www.idalitawrightraso.com/blog
X.com (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/idaraso
YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@idalitaraso
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/52248378.Idalita_Raso