What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Worlds of Origin?
The story behind this book is deeply personal. It’s my first novel, and I’ve been working on it for what feels like forever. The idea began as a small seed—a fascination with the rise and fall of civilizations and the mysteries of the cosmos. Over time, that seed grew into an epic tale spanning 900,000 years, blending elements of science fiction and fantasy. I was inspired by classic space operas, but I also wanted to explore deeper themes like the nature of power, the consequences of prophecy, and the fine line between science and magic. It’s been a long journey, filled with countless revisions and late nights.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Worlds of Origin, what would they be?
I might be in an Imagine Dragons period right now, but I’d pick “Radioactive” for Mira because it really captures her journey of unearthing dangerous secrets and facing powerful forces that change her understanding of the world.
For Mer, I’d go with “Demons.” It reflects her internal conflict and the struggle between her identity and the darker forces at play in her life.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Definitely yes—science fiction is my favorite genre to read, and it’s also my favorite to write. There’s something about exploring the vast possibilities of the future, other worlds, and the unknown that captivates me. Fantasy comes in a close second; I love the way it allows for boundless imagination and the creation of entirely new realms and mythologies.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
My TBR pile includes The Death Gate Cycle by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman, which I’ve been eager to dive into. I’m also planning to revisit The World of Null-A series by A.E. van Vogt—it’s one of those classics that I find reveals new layers every time I read it.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
My favorite scene to write was definitely the last chapter. It’s where everything comes together—the big revelations, the tying up of loose ends, and the final pieces of the puzzle falling into place. After spending so much time building the story and developing the characters, it was incredibly satisfying to bring it all to a conclusion that feels both surprising and inevitable. It’s the moment where all the threads connect, and the true scope of the story is revealed.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Not yet—this was my first novel, so I’m still working on developing my quirky writer habits! Since writing isn’t my full-time gig, I haven’t had the chance to cultivate any lucky mugs or acquire a writing cat.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I have several, but if I had to pick one off the top of my head, it would be: “Certainty is the privilege of uneducated minds” by Cassius Jackson Keyser. It reminds me to stay curious and open-minded, always questioning what I think I know.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
It would be the idea that even in a vast, mysterious galaxy, the choices of individuals can shape the fate of everything. The interconnectedness of every character’s journey and the idea that history is shaped by both grand events and small, personal decisions – that is something I hope lingers with readers.
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