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Author's 'Pokemon' Obsession Fuels New YA Dystopian Novel
15 Sep
Summary
- Ava Reid's new YA dystopian novel, 'Winterveil,' is inspired by competitive Pokémon.
- The book is set at Valeran Academy, training elite students for a century-long Cold War.
- Reid spent pandemic lockdowns immersed in the official competitive Pokémon format (VGC).
Fantasy author Ava Reid has released "Winterveil," a new YA dystopian novel that draws inspiration from an unexpected source: competitive "Pokémon." The first book in a planned duology, "Winterveil" is set in the prestigious Valeran Academy, where gifted students are trained for an ongoing, century-long Cold War.
The academy's curriculum involves intense war simulations and technological advancements, creating a high-stakes environment for its students. A mysterious mission draws four particular students together amidst the cutthroat competitions.
Reid shared that her immersion in the official competitive "Pokémon" format, VGC, during the pandemic significantly influenced the novel's themes. She described competitive "Pokémon" as a deeply strategic game, far more complex than chess, involving intricate math and probabilities.
Beyond "Winterveil," Reid is also working on "Necromantica," the sequel to her gothic fantasy "Innamorata," set for release next April. She is also collaborating with Emma Donoghue on a film adaptation of her novel "Lady Macbeth."
