What inspires an author to write a story set between two cities? How do personal experiences, creative freedom, and unexpected reader connections shape the journey of bringing a book to life?
For this edition of No Shelf Control’s Author Q&A series, I’m excited to welcome Odessa Taner, author of From Paris to Seoul! In this interview, Odessa shares the inspiration behind her book, what it’s like bringing two distinct cities to life on the page, and the sometimes-chaotic reality of her writing process.
We also chat about the creative freedom and challenges of independent publishing, the importance of connecting with readers, and the exciting projects she has in the works. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary romance, K-pop, or simply love learning about the people behind your favorite stories, there’s plenty to discover!
Let’s get to know Odessa!
Author Q&A: Odessa Taner
1. The inspiration behind From Paris to Seoul
Could you tell us a little about the inspiration behind From Paris to Seoul? Where did the original idea come from, and how did it develop into the story readers can experience today?
I almost moved to Seoul to study, but life took me to Paris instead. This book is my love letter to both cities: the one I chose and the one I still wonder about.
2. Bringing the setting to life
The title From Paris to Seoul immediately brings two distinct places to mind. What drew you to these settings, and how did you approach using place, culture, and atmosphere to shape the story and its characters?
I tried to show both cities truthfully, not just the famous spots but also the small places locals know. I hope readers feel like they’ve travelled there!
3. Characters who stay with us
When you’re developing characters, are there particular qualities, experiences, or relationships you especially enjoy exploring? Were there any characters in From Paris to Seoul who surprised you as you wrote them or took the story in an unexpected direction?
I love relatable characters with flaws and inner anxieties. I’m not Korean myself, but as an East Asian woman I share many similar values around family and expectations, so I wrote both leads with care and respect for their culture.
4. Behind the writing process
Every author approaches the writing process differently. What does your writing process typically look like, from the first spark of an idea to the finished manuscript? Are you someone who plans everything out in advance, or do you prefer to discover the story as you go?
Chaotic, lol! Usually an idea pops up, I write an outline, then go on a writing spree for weeks or months: 5K words on good days, nothing on bad ones. Editing is the hardest part. And often, right after publishing, I’m already thinking about giving the side characters their own books.
5. Themes and reader connections
When readers finish From Paris to Seoul, what do you hope stays with them? Is there a particular theme, message, or emotional experience you hoped to explore through the story?
I enjoy writing grown-up characters who stay true to themselves. I hope readers finish the book feeling a little braver about their own choices, and reminded that it’s never too late to start again.
6. The unexpected side of storytelling
Have you ever had a reader interpret a character, relationship, or moment in one of your books in a way you hadn’t anticipated? What was that experience like, and has a reader’s interpretation ever changed or expanded how you think about your own work?
Sometimes, when I’m feeling brave, I read my reviews, and some readers write such long, thoughtful ones that I’m honestly amazed at how much thought they put into my book. Once a book is out, it doesn’t fully belong to me anymore, and I love that.
7. Publishing independently
As an indie author, you’ve had the opportunity to navigate the publishing process independently. What has that experience been like for you, and what have you learned along the way? What do you find most rewarding about indie publishing, and what challenges do you think aspiring authors should be prepared for?
I love the creative freedom: my stories, my covers, my timeline. The challenge is visibility, since writing the book is only half the job. My advice: connect with readers, promote yourself on social media, and keep writing, lol.
8. Looking across your books
Having written multiple books, how has your approach to storytelling evolved over time? Are there themes or elements that you find yourself returning to, or do you enjoy challenging yourself to try something different with each new project?
I keep returning to K-drama and K-pop worlds and contemporary rom-coms. I love writing feel-good, funny books. But I also like trying new things, like my recent romantasy novella with dragons (which is also funny, hopefully)!
9. Connecting with readers
What has connecting with readers through social media, street teams, and the wider book community meant to you as an author? Has interacting directly with readers changed the way you think about your books or the experience of sharing your work with the world?
It means so much. Every message from a reader makes my day, especially on the days when I feel like giving up!
10. Your journey as an author
Looking back at your journey so far, what has being an author taught you about yourself, both creatively and personally? Is there anything you wish you could tell yourself at the beginning of your publishing journey?
Writing has taught me to bet on myself and to be ready to wear many hats at once, lol. Trust the process, keep going, and celebrate the small wins.
11. What’s next?
Without giving away anything you’re not ready to share, can you tell us about any upcoming projects or stories you’re excited to explore? Are there particular genres, ideas, or types of characters you’d love to write about in the future?
I’m working on my next K-pop romance, featuring Sejun, the leader of Galaxy4, and on the second novella in my romantasy series, continuing The Girl the Dragons Remember.
Have You Read From Paris to Seoul?
If this interview has made you curious about Odessa’s writing, why not check out From Paris to Seoul?
I had the opportunity to read the book myself, and I shared my thoughts in a full review here:
Read my five-star review of From Paris to Seoul here!
A Thank You to Odessa!
A huge thank-you to Odessa for taking the time to answer my questions and share more about her journey as an author! I loved getting a glimpse into the inspiration behind her stories, her experiences as an indie author, and the exciting projects she’s working on next.
Be sure to follow Odessa and keep an eye out for her upcoming releases, especially if you’re a fan of K-pop romances, contemporary rom-coms, or romantasy!
And, as always, thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed getting to know another author behind the books we love. Until next time, happy reading! 📚
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