Though based on themes fairly common to both writers and readers of teen fiction, Alexander Alexandrov's ALL FOR YOU might be considered something of a rarity, in that it chronicles a coming of age and romance told from a male point of view. In today's guest blog, he shares his motivations behind writing this debut novel and muses on two of the most important things young people struggle with on their road to adulthood.What themes are relevant to young adults and teens? My own experience has shown me that most people in transition to adulthood pursue two things: love and independence. It may not be obvious, but most young people are looking to emerge from underneath their parents’ protective, sometimes even over-protective, wing and follow their own path in life. Along the way, we have relationships and flirtations and deal with issues of intimacy and commitment.
This is a universal rite of passage, the transition from boyhood/girlhood to being an adult. My debut novel, ALL FOR YOU, tries to capture these themes and portray them in a very candid way. Rather than writing what I would consider a predictable, cookie-cutter romance novel, I wanted to bring the reader a refreshing first-person view of growing up and maneuvering through the complexities of work and personal relationships in the search for meaning in the 21st century.
The book tells the story of Valentin, a nearly penniless recent college graduate, who defies his parents’ fierce objections and leaves home to work abroad and chase his love interest, Maria. As soon as he has settled into his new job, the hopelessly in love twenty-something decides to confess his feelings. But Valentin is heartbroken to discover that Maria does not reci
procate his love. Soon afterward, he runs into a gorgeous woman named Irina, and they begin a whirlwind romance. But the idyllic situation quickly turns sour and leaves Valentin with few options, forcing him to take drastic action in a final bid to achieve his goals. All the while, the main character is trying to handle an increasingly complex situation at work and with his family back home.The story is told using first person because it’s very important to bring the reader into the main character’s mind. I wanted to expose Valentin’s thoughts in a very honest way and show him as an idealistic and determined, albeit flawed, young man who is following his heart and trying to make it on his own. I want the reader to know exactly what Valentin is thinking and why he acts the way he does.
Some readers, particularly female readers, might be surprised to find out that many guys are sensitive and emotional, while trying to appear tough and rugged. One of my intentions was to break the traditional romance fiction genre by showcasing how love and relationships are perceived from a male perspective.
As this is my debut novel, I am very interested in receiving feedback from the public, so feel free to check out my Myspace profile. I invite everyone who feels comfortable doing so to share their own stories of independence, love, etc. I enjoy interacting with readers of the book and hearing what you have to say.
-- Alexander Alexandrov
