Q&A with Atlas Laika – Author Interview

Ever wondered what goes on inside the mind of a brilliant sci-fi storyteller? We’re thrilled to bring you an exclusive Q&A with Atlas Laika, the visionary author behind Aurethia Rising. Known for crafting immersive worlds, compelling characters, and thrilling narratives, Atlas takes us behind the scenes of their creative process, inspirations, and what’s next for the Aurethia universe.

In this exciting interview, we dive deep into the writing journey, the challenges of world-building, and the themes that make Aurethia Rising such a gripping read. Whether you’re a longtime sci-fi fan or just discovering Atlas Laika’s work, this Q&A is packed with insights, surprises, and maybe even a few hints about what’s coming next. Let’s get started!

About The Author

Tell us more about you

I was lucky to grow up in a beach town south of Los Angeles, which is probably why I have a fondness for the colour green. Despite living in a desert next to the ocean, I’m surrounded by green — farmland, forest, breezy seaside foliage and long grass. It grew on me, I think. No pun intended.

What are the three items you’d take on a deserted island?

Oh, let’s see… A water purification straw. Some flint and steel. Maybe a knife or a fishing spear.

Who is your biggest role model?

I’m really inspired by my dad, but I do my best not to idolise people. Having role models can lead to disappointment both in myself and in the unfair version of someone I’ve dreamed up, so I try to relate to people on a human, neighbourly level.

I’m inspired by farmers who yield crops on very little land under the constant strain of competitive water rights. I’m inspired by people who live fearlessly and bravely, I’m inspired by people who take risks. I’m inspired by people who speak more than one language [I’m trying to learn a little Japanese, slowly but surely]. Yeah, I don’t know. Safe bet? My dad. He taught me how to be a seeker. I’d say my mom, too. Strongest and gentlest woman I’ve ever known.

What is your favourite book and who is your favourite author?

Since I can’t pick just one, we’ll go with Dune: Messiah, Howling Dark, The Song of Achilles, A Day of Fallen Night, and A Court of Silver Flames.

Do you prefer e-books, physical books or audiobooks?

I’m a notorious audiobook reader! I listen to an audiobook for at least an hour a day [I’m reading the Sun Eater series right now and absolutely loving it], and I read a physical book or an e-book almost every night before bed. 

Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?

Writing is a passion of mine. I just recently wrote my first space opera, Aurethia Rising, after spending a lot of time on AO3 in multiple fandoms. I work full-time for a non-profit designed to bridge the gap between local farming initiatives and community eating, but I’d love to make writing my main source of income. For now, it’s an expensive but rewarding hobby!

What social media platform do you like and use the most?

I use Instagram and Threads!

My social channels are:

Your Writing Process

How do you go about starting a new novel?

I’m a nose-to-tail outliner. I start with the bigger world then go into character detailing and map out the entire book chapter-by-chapter before ever starting a draft. I also turn off wordcount when I’m writing. I was super intimidated by Aurethia Rising and I honestly did not think I’d ever actually sit down and write it. But I was bit by the writerly bug, Cael and Elio wouldn’t leave me alone, and I knew I had to write their love story.

Where do you like to write?

I write at home, but I also enjoy going to my local Barnes & Noble café to write. I’m a premium member which opts me in for discounts on tea, coffee, and snacks. My treat of choice is a cupcake or a cookie, and I’m usually sipping on a peppermint mocha [or matcha]. There’s something about putting your book baby together at a bookstore that makes the whole process a lot more fun.

What do you like most about writing?

The daydreaming part. The brainstorming part. 

What do you find stops you from writing more?

Life! I have a full-time job and responsibilities outside of my little corner of the writing world. I wish I could write more. I wish I could read more, too. But it’s okay! Maybe one day it’ll be my full-time gig. 

What genres do you like to write and why?

I write science fiction. I think it’s the ability to get outside of the realm of possibility that entices me to the genre. I’ve always been a huge fan of Star Wars, Star Trek, Dune, Alien — anything far beyond the scope of Earth. We can picture a future untouched by the mistakes we’ve made on our lonely little blue planet and peek at a distant rendition of ourselves far removed from our current lives.

We can play in a sandbox where the echo of those mistakes still pushes us to new places, new endeavours. I like to imagine a world where we’re sustaining each other and our communities in a widespread effort to keep each other safe and comfortable, like in Star Trek. I like to imagine a time when the Empire is thwarted by a rebellion seeded in hope. It’s also fun and terrifying to think about how small we are in the grand scheme, and how vast everything beyond us really is.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring writers?

Just write it! It’s okay if it takes you a while. But write the story.

Showcase your books!

How many books have you written and if more than one, what’s your favourite?

Just one, Aurethia Rising. But I’m currently outlining my next space opera. It’s set in the same universe and features some familiar faces. I also have a short story set in the Greater Universe coming out in an anthology curated by Jake Vanguard called Remnants of Relics – I’ve had the chance to read a few of the stories and it’s going to be a beautiful collection.

How long did Aurethia Rising take to write?

Just about six months. I started brainstorming and outlining in March 2024 and finished the first draft in October, I think. 

Lastly, what is your favourite thing about being an author?

Creating something out of nothing. I mean, how cool is that? I made a whole world. That’s pretty damn amazing. 

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