Where did Artemis Price Come From?

Torrington Connecticut.

In all seriousness though, people pick pen names for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s something close to their real name, but easier to pronounce. My previous pen name, Kay Bennson, was a play at that. There are others that chose their pen names for privacy reasons. In this digital age, it is way too easy to track someone down, and people don’t always listen to boundaries (I could probably write an entire post just about that, but let’s put a pin in that for now).

I could tell you that Artemis Price was born from a dream, or two words I picked because they sounded dreamy together. Nope. I created my pen name back when I was editing Semi Sweet, The first of my upcoming releases. They were the names of two of my favorite hockey players at the time.

I’m serious.

Exhibit A: Artemi Panarin

Artemi is the Russian version of the name Artemis. I was sold right there. A much cooler name than my real redacted one. Also I liked his quirky personality on and off the ice.

Exhibit B: Carey Price

*Slams fist on table…LOOK AT THIS BEAUTIFUL MAN! I wonder if every hockey romance is written with him in mind. ANYWAY. Beyond him being my favorite goalie of all time (Sorry Shesterkin, though you were a Sean Mizuno character inspiration), his last name is nice and easy. Also complements well with Artemis.

Well there you have it, how my pen name was born. Thanks Artemi and Carey!

Love,

Artemis

My Lore

It’s been a trend on Instagram lately, “The Lore I Bring to the Function,” or something along those lines. People share the media that made them who they are today. I plan on doing it on Instagram myself, but I thought it might be a fun topic for a blog post. Last time I discussed how my pen name was born, today let’s discuss what made me want to weave love stories 24/7.

I probably could make a huge list of inspiration, but let’s keep it at five for now.

1. Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2

Ugh. As I mentioned in my about me section, these two really started it all. I think I was in middle school when I played this game for the first time. Its visually stunning (to think it came out TWENTY FOUR YEARS AGO), the score is captivating, and these two were just the icing on the cake. Was it because Yuna fell in love with Titus in spite of having to sacrifice everything for her people? Or perhaps it was Titus having her back no matter what? Whatever it was, this game had a huge impact on me!

2. Sailor Moon

I’ve loved Sailor Moon as long as I can remember, but Usagi and Mamoru’s relationship is something I appreciate much more as an adult. I’m noticing a trend here…I’m a sucker for a man that doesn’t resent his woman for having a more important role than him. Instead, he supports however he can. Also, they are the strongest when they work together.

3. Kodocha

I just finished rereading this series! I live for the unconditional love that these two have for one another. How they feel solace in each others presence. Both had situations as they grew up where they would have been lost without the other person. I’m also seeing that Japanese Media has had a big impact on me over the years.

4. Cleopatra’s Daughter by Michelle Moran

This might have been my first Historical Romance growing up? This once deserves a reread because there’s foreshadowing that you don’t notice the first time. And while I don’t think all the details are purely factual, I love how Juba was always looking out for Selene, even if she doesn’t realize it until the end.

5. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

This one makes my head want to explode, because there was no romance confirmed in this film! The chemistry was SO GOOD. What would have happened if they lived? The slow burn was insane.

Well there you have it, a few examples of couples that make my heart swoon. I hope my characters will do that for you too.

Artemis