Amy Fecteau, author of the novel, “Real Vampires Don’t Sparkle,” has deep Maine roots. Born and raised in southern Maine, Fecteau, 29, lives in Gorham and works in Westbrook at Idexx Laboratories making water-testing kits.

In her spare time, Fecteau enjoys writing. She took that hobby to the next level by publishing her first novel this month with Curiosity Quills Press.

Installments of the 40-chapter book are available online at curiousityquills.com. On the website her book has received 4 out of 5 stars from readers.

“Real Vampires Don’t Sparkle” is a humorous take on the recent vampire craze that took off with the hit young adult series, “Twilight.”

Fecteau took time to answer some questions about the series, her writing process and what’s next for her characters.

Q: Can you tell us a little about your book?

?A: “Real Vampires Don’t Sparkle” follows Matheus, the main character, after he involuntarily becomes a vampire. He’s joined by Quin, an ancient, somewhat amoral, vampire. At its heart, RVDS is a character-driven story. Matheus changes and adapts to his new (un)life as various secrets and plots unfold through the story. It’s full of dark humor and snarky banter, laced with more dramatic moments.

Q: What were your inspirations behind writing the book?

?A: I’ve always loved vampires. I think anyone interested in myths and monsters also enjoys creating their own twists on the original idea. I’ve read a lot of books that have the human-vampire relationship as the focus, with the main character being human. I wanted to show a character reacting to actually becoming a vampire, with the kind of issues brought up by suddenly being forced to kill people in order to survive. Matheus and the other vampires in RVDS are grounded in reality, with their own wants and fears and quirks. They showcase the dark side of vampirism, and how it contrasts with their remaining human characteristics.

Q: Maine is fortunate enough to have many artists, including authors. Wwhy do you think this state has become a hub for creative types?

?A: I think the pace of life in Maine is more relaxed. There’s more time for creative projects. The people are usually friendly, and willing to swap stories. It’s also a rural state, with I think encourages introspection, and the natural beauty allows provided excellent inspiration for writing and art.

Q: Where is your favorite place to write?

?A: Ideally, in a comfortable chair on a porch with a glass of iced coffee. Usually, though, I write on my couch with my laptop and my cat trying to sit on the keyboard.

Q: What is your favorite part of the book?

?A: I don’t know if I could pick any one part. I think, overall, my favorite part is the banter and bickering between the characters. I adore sarcasm and quick wit, and I enjoy writing dialogue more than anything else. There are scenes that I love, but to list them all would make this answer far, far too long.

Q: Any advice to young readers out there?

?A: Read everything. Read things you think you might not like. Read challenging books. Read trashy romance novels. Read non-fiction. Read books written by foreign authors. Read articles in newspapers and online, be curious. Pay attention to the details, especially the language the author uses. Everything you read helps shape the person you, and gives you a more informed opinion of the world. Ignorance is not something to be proud of.

Q: What was the process like to get published?

?A: I think my experience was a little different than most writers. I had the original version of RVDS posted online, and one of the acquisitions editors at Curiosity Quills Press stumbled over it, and liked it. She contacted me and gave me some suggestions on what to work on. I rewrote the first three chapters and submitted them. Curiosity Quills liked the improvements, and sent me a contract. I don’t think I’ve been so excited in my life as when I saw RVDS in print for the first time.

Q: Do you have any ideas for the next book?

?A: Right now, I’m going to continue Matheus’ and Quin’s story. There are two more books to complete their arc, and after that, who knows? I have a few idealets floating around, so maybe one of them will turn into my next series.

Amy Fecteau, a Gorham resident, has just published her first novel, “Real Vampires Don’t Sparkle.” available online at Amazon and at Barnes and Noble. “It’s full of dark humor and snarky banter, laced with more dramatic moments,” she says about the book.