Choosing a title for a book is one of the most exciting and challenging parts of the writing process. It’s the first impression readers have of the story, a glimpse into its essence and themes. For The Midnight Rose: A War of Ruins, the title didn’t just come to me overnight—it was a journey of discovery, much like the story itself.
Today, I’d like to share what inspired the title and why it feels so meaningful to me and the world I’ve created.
The Symbolism of the Rose
A rose is more than just a flower—it’s a symbol. It represents beauty, resilience, and the duality of delicate petals and sharp thorns. For Kiera, the protagonist of The Midnight Rose, this duality reflects her own journey.
Kiera is caught between two worlds, navigating the balance of light and dark. Like a rose blooming in the night, she carries both vulnerability and strength, beauty and danger. The thorns symbolize the barriers she builds to protect herself, while the bloom represents her growth and potential.
Why “Midnight”?
The word “midnight” holds a powerful connotation. It’s a time of mystery and transition—a bridge between one day and the next, light and shadow. In The Midnight Rose, midnight represents the liminal space Kiera occupies.
As a character, Kiera is both human and something more, caught in the midst of forces she doesn’t fully understand. Midnight also ties to the story’s themes of transformation and self-discovery. It’s in the darkest moments that Kiera begins to uncover her true power and purpose.
Tying It All Together
The combination of “Midnight” and “Rose” felt like the perfect encapsulation of Kiera’s journey and the larger themes of the story. The title reflects her struggle to find balance, her growth in the face of adversity, and the beauty that can arise even in the darkest of times.
It’s also a nod to the prophecy that surrounds her—one tied to the enigmatic Midnight Rose, a force that could either unite or destroy. The title hints at the mystery and stakes of the story, drawing readers into a world where nothing is as it seems.
What the Title Means to Me
For me, The Midnight Rose isn’t just a title—it’s the heart of the story. It reminds me of the balance between fragility and strength, light and dark, and the potential for growth even in the most challenging circumstances.
Every time I see the title, I’m reminded of why I started this journey—to tell a story about resilience, identity, and the beauty of embracing who we are, thorns and all.
What’s in a Name?
Titles have a way of shaping how readers perceive a story, and I hope The Midnight Rose resonates with you as much as it does with me. As the story unfolds, I believe you’ll see how deeply the title ties into Kiera’s journey and the world around her.
What are your thoughts on book titles? Do you have a favorite that perfectly captures the essence of a story? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
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