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Geri Halliwell-Horner — a.k.a. Ginger Spice — brings girl power to a new generation with YA series

BBG News

According to Geri Halliwell-Horner, composing a song is like having an energizing “espresso shot,” while crafting a novel is more akin to enjoying a “feast.

Known primarily as Ginger Spice, one-fifth of the iconic ’90s pop group the Spice Girls, Halliwell-Horner now caters to the demographic that once sang her songs by heart. In an interview with The Times, she shared her excitement about her latest young adult novel, “Rosie Frost: Ice on Fire,” which is part of a trilogy that started with the 2023 bestseller “Rosie Frost and the Falcon Queen.

Nevertheless, Halliwell-Horner isn’t unfamiliar with writing; she penned a memoir titled “If Only” in 1999 following her exit from the Spice Girls, and later, a series of children’s books named “Ugenia Lavender” in 2008. The most valuable writing counsel she received as she ventured into this aspect of her career was to “begin anew. Avoid maturing ‘Ugenia Lavender.'”. Consequently, I followed the advice and produced a more profound and developed story with my new work titled “[Rosie Frost]”.

Halliwell-Horner expresses her fondness for the sticky parts, pointing out her favorite scene in the book – a heartfelt kiss between Rosie and her sweetheart. With a youthful enthusiasm, she shares, ‘I truly relished crafting that moment,’ making us feel like we’re a couple of teenagers discussing it at a slumber party with Rosie.

Halliwell-Horner gives Rosie some of the endearing traits that captivated many girls, women, and even men towards the Spice Girls – Emma Bunton (Baby Spice), Melanie Brown (Scary Spice), Melanie Chisholm (Sporty Spice), and Victoria Beckham (Posh Spice) – nearly three decades past.

For nearly eight years now, Halliwell-Horner hasn’t put out a pop single of her own. However, she has been writing original music for “Rosie Frost” books, such as the recent track “Older Now,” which can be heard by scanning the QR code in “Ice on Fire.

Instead of avoiding complex emotions that come with adolescence like sadness, loneliness, and vengeance, she fearlessly tackles them. In this story, the desire for retribution propels Rosie as she strives to avenge her mother’s death.

“It’s much darker and it’s real,” says Halliwell-Horner.

This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.

Books

Krysten Ritter, the author of a recently released second book, has a penchant for creating characters that are unforeseeable, possessing a hint of mischief and a touch of vulnerability.

What draws you to writing, and writing for children in particular?

I’ve had a lifelong passion for writing and reading. My academic background includes theater studies based on Stanislavski method and English literature before I ventured into my music career. Writing songs is like uncovering words that others might struggle to discover within themselves. It’s a form of storytelling, but more concentrated, like an espresso shot, while writing a novel is a grander, more elaborate affair.

My goal is consistently to reach out and resonate with everyone. These young adult novels, nonetheless, are intended to engage readers of all ages. They appeal to older adults as well due to their rich layers that stimulate the intellect, making them intriguing for those who enjoy delving deeper, or if you’re someone like me who appreciates a good intellectual challenge, they certainly cater to that interest too.

In my eagerness, I often dive headfirst into extensive research, and that’s exactly what happened when I picked up “Rosie Frost” novels. Given their scientific backdrop, I felt compelled to ensure accuracy, so I delved deeper into the subjects, such as fusion energy, physics, and black holes. My aim was to make the science elements more profound and realistic within the storyline.

Could you describe the experience of conducting that particular research, particularly focusing on the study of the British royal family and choosing which aspects to incorporate into Rosie’s legend?

Previously, I’ve delved into historical novels, such as “The Other Boleyn Girl” by Philippa Gregory, which offers a captivating introduction to history while remaining light-hearted. I’m particularly fond of “The Tudors,” brimming with drama, and it serves as a crucial epoch in our past. I also yearned for a female character who embodies modern sensibilities. A heroine who is authentic and vulnerable was what I sought. Enter Rosie Frost, thrust 500 years back after losing her family. She discovers the bravery she never recognized within herself. This resonates with me: summoning the courage to seize opportunities that scare you most. Similarly, I found that inner strength in writing this series. As we move onto Book 2, Rosie is on the verge of turning 14 — an age symbolizing power. She’s now wrestling with defining her own identity. Through her journey and self-discovery, one uncovers their own inner strength and trust it.

Are there any plans for a third book?

Here’s what I’ve been focusing on: Keeping my cards close to my chest, as I don’t want to spoil the surprise. From the start, I had a vision for this project as a three-part series. The final chapter was always planned, but I’m yet to determine which characters will meet their end – and unfortunately, someone must.

Books

In his memoir titled ‘Fahrenheit-182′, Mark Hoppus from Blink 182 recounts the heartbreaking effects of his parents’ separation, his passionate embrace of punk rock music, his journey through cancer, and the tumultuous experiences he had with friends and bandmates.

Is there a connection you see between the empowerment of girls you promoted as a member of the Spice Girls and how it’s reflected in the story you wrote about a strong young character for today’s audience, Rosie Frost? Was this something that consciously influenced your writing process?

In my perspective, you’ve truly hit the nail on the head! No matter what path I tread, there’s always this seedling of inspiration. My aspiration is to foster a sense of empowerment, hope, and inspiration in others through the art of storytelling, be it through songs or stories encapsulated within books.

She’s experiencing quite relatable trials, ranging from bullying, which isn’t exclusive to any particular age group, to grief. Yet, she encounters these hardships cloaked in a blend of enticing mysteries, historical intrigue, and a hint of peril. In essence, “Ice on Fire” offers a unique blend of the bitter and the sweet.

You recently teased a Spice Girls reunion. Is there anything else you can tell us?

I’m deeply appreciative of everyone who contributed to the Spice Girls’ success. Any official updates or announcements will come directly from us, as a united group.

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2025-04-08 13:34

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