
FAQ: 'Everlasting Spotlight'
Every story starts with a question.
This page is where I'll try to answer all your questions about my debut novel, the characters, characters, and plans for publishing.
What is 'Everlasting Spotlight' about?
In the blink of an eye, six teenage girls go from signing their names on chemistry exams to signing their names on headshots in the hands of thousands of screaming fans as their girl group, UNIQUIS, skyrockets to global stardom. While the girls knew debuting as an idol wouldn't be easy, no amount of training could've prepared them for the paranoia that comes when a fan who claims to support you till the very end starts to track your every move; when your company is more focused on keeping ahjussis happy rather than when your smile falters when they get too close for pictures; and the loneliness that comes from hearing thousands of people scream they love the version of you that you wish you had never created.
While the girls vow to remain united and confront their challenges fearlessly, the relentless pursuit of fame to tear them apart from within proves to be a daunting task, showing no signs of stopping until their debt is settled.
What genre is the book?
It's a Upper-YA contemporary novel about the idol industry, exploring the dark side of it and the immense pressure it puts onto young idols. There's also elements of romance, found family, mental health, grief, etc.
Are there trigger warnings for this book?
Yes, there are many. I made a separate page for the list of warnings, but you can also find them in the drop box below:
Mentions of suicide/suicidal ideations
Grief
Death of parental figure (past event that happens before the timeline in the book starts)
Sexual Assault (But no graphic scenes depicting it)
Grooming
Bullying/Physical Assault (Not too graphic)
Abusive Relationships
Ableism
Stalking
Mentions of narcissistic parents (side character's parents)
Homophobia
Sexism
PTSD
Eating Disorders/Body Dysmorphia
Depictions of: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety disorder, and OCD
When will the book be released?
The novel is still a work in progress, but I'm aiming for a release late this year or early next year. I can't give an exact date as I plan to try to go down the traditional publishing route with this novel.
Where will I be able to read it?
If the novel is picked up by a publisher, it'll be available in book stores and vendors online. If I later choose to go down the self-publishing route, the book will be listed on Amazon and other print on demand websites, such as Barnes & Nobles.
What inspired you to write this story?
For over a decade, I've had immense respect and appreciation for Korean and Japanese culture such as their food, religious practices, history, and cultural practices. However, the misogyny, suicide epidemic, rape culture, lack of workers rights and societal pressures that take place in those countries also caught my eye. I'm not Asian myself, but I've experienced some of the issues these women/people face in those countries, and I want them and anyone else who reads my book to know that they are not alone. You are seen and I hope one day this book can influence someone else to aspire for change in this world.
Will Asian people also be working on this book?
Yes! Though I'm very confident in my writing and the research I've done to prepare for this novel, I also know that as a non-asian person that I may not get everything right. So, I will only be working with Japanese and Korean women when it comes to editing the final version of my book to ensure everyone is properly and respectfully represented in it.
How can I get updates on the book's status?
You can find updates on the book updates page and on my Instagram account, which is under: Cherry_bombshell13
Will there be bonus content?
Absolutely! On my Instagram account and in book updates, I'll be posting character art, playlists, novella, book etc. So, make sure you check those out so you don't miss anything!
Will there be a sequel?
Not sure yet! But maybe that'll change soon...