Author Interview Questions – HC Chiodo
About the Book:
1. Fated is described as a dark romantic comedy set in the eerie town of Citer, Oregon.
Can you give us a brief introduction to Sera Napier and Aodhan Ferguson?

Sera is in her 30s, a fiery creole woman who relocated to the Pacific Northwest after
getting away from her ex. She is the head chef for the new upscale restaurant she
brought to town giving her the roots she needed to feel more at home. Sera is a green
witch loving every bit of her herbs and nature around her, leading her to the most ease
the moment she reaches the outdoors.
Aodhan is the hot, dark brooding guy you see across the bar that doesn’t even notice
you exist which makes him that much hotter. He is the type to make you wonder what
goes on behind those stormy sea eyes of his, when you notice they light up, but only for
her. Irish background and a temper to boot he sticks to work and home, besides his
special job.

2. Aodhan is not just a quiet carpenter—he’s involved in “clean-up” for things the justice
system can’t touch. What inspired this intriguing mix of romance and suspense?

I have always personally loved the good boy idea but always fell for the bad boy. To
have someone who walks the line, who takes care of things in the wrong way but for the
right reason? You can’t get more morally grey.

3. The book deals with secrets, trust, and shadows in relationships. What drew you to
explore these themes in Fated?

Mystery in the beginning of relationships no matter how much you think you know
someone you are always learning.

4. Without giving spoilers, what’s one twist or secret in Citer that readers will be excited—or
shocked—to discover?

Someone closer to home might be orchestrating the behind the scenes job that Aodhan
loves so much.

5. Sera’s journey begins after a heartbreak and a move west. How does her personal
growth drive the story alongside the romance and suspense?

The biggest part of her personal growth goes long with her romance with Aodhan,
learning to love again after violence is hard for anyone. This story however, shows that
you can learn you’re not alone and can trust and love again, even after your world
comes crashing. It also shows that channeling your anger might bring out something
more you didn’t even know was possible.

Writing & Inspiration:
6. What inspired you to write in the dark rom-com genre?

Honestly, I grew up reading the suspenseful horror type. That in turn made me love the dark
romance the moment I found it was a thing. However, the moment I read my first Dark rom-com,
I realized for me, I could see it as more realistic than most.

7. How do you balance the mix of romance, humor, and suspense while keeping the story
emotionally engaging?

The comedy in it is 100% that “this is awkward let me be funny” type. This book and series are
much more based in real life possibilities and reactions in comparison to complete fantasy. I
can’t take life all serious 24/7 something silly happens at some point, and with Sera and Aodhan
that is definitely the truth. Also the multi POV gives you the option to see it from other people’s
perspective as well. And you will see some of the others are definitely hilarious.

8. Do any real-life experiences, locations, or inspirations influence your characters or setting in
Fated?

I survived a domestic violence relationship like Sera did, and there’s a lot that mirrors my life.
Also things are similar, but nothing is exactly the same. Even most characters are loosely based
on people whom matter to me. (Don’t worry any of those who know me the spicy scenes are
not reinactions lol)

Characters & Worldbuilding:

9. Sera and Aodhan have very different personalities and pasts. How did you develop their
dynamic, and what makes their connection compelling?

They are that stereotype of opposites attract. Within reason. The other books show that as hard
as it is to see now, they might not be as different as one thinks. Sera is very much more the
artistic excentric with a strong sense of family and these are my people. Think female version of
Dom on Fast and the Furious. Aodhan is the brooding, grump who only has eyes for her and
lightens up just for her sake. Think Beast. This story shows, everyone has a heart, when the
right one comes around.

10. Citer itself feels almost like a character in the story. How did you approach building such a
spooky, atmospheric town?

I feel like every town on the coast when it’s got that misty, rainy, dark vibe has its own
spookiness. When I spent time on the Oregon Coast I felt like every tiny town had its own
secrets behind the walls.

11. If Fated were adapted into a movie or series, who would you cast as Sera and Aodhan?
Oooof hard one! Sera would probably have to be Vanessa Hudgens or Mila Kunis.

Aodhan…. Kristofer Hivju is the closest to what I pictured of him, so hands hown it would have
to be him.

Author Life & Projects:

12. Can you share a little about your writing routine or rituals when working on Fated?

I have to have the lights low, comfy clothes and blankets to stay as toasty as possible. Sera’s
environment is not far off from my own.

13. How do you engage with readers on TikTok and Instagram while promoting your book?

Oh I totally could be doing better! I am slowly building it all but I try to answer everyone. The
biggest part is getting over my own fears, I love Fated and the whole Weathered Love Triology.
But, I can only hope everyone else does too. That being said, I hope everyone does reach out I
love answering messages and comments.

14. Are there any upcoming projects, covers, or reveals that you can tease for your fans?
Fated is book 1, I’m currently working on the 2nd book, you will be enjoying a 4 course meal
when you dive in.

Fun &; Quickfire:

15. Coffee, tea, or something stronger while writing?
Honestly depends on the day and depends on the chapter lol. I have days I relax with coffee
and others where its definitely a strong one.

16. Night owl or early bird when it comes to writing sessions?
Again depends on the day lol. I am a mama, with a full time job and school as well so some
days it was I need to go

17. One word to describe Fated or its main characters?

Eclectic lol. Theres no 2 people the same.

18. A guilty pleasure or hobby that fuels your creativity outside writing?
Obviously my first thing I would say would be reading, however, to stay completely away from
the art….. I am addicted to horror tiktok compilations lol.

19. If you could step into Citer for a day, what would you do first?
Definitely go try Sera’s restaurant menu and Lace’s favorite drink.