Q&A with E. Scott Clevenger – Author Interview

We’re delighted to present an exclusive interview with E. Scott Clevenger, the co-author behind the captivating “War of Night” series, a collaboration that has redefined the landscape of modern fantasy. Clevenger’s intricate world-building, coupled with his keen eye for character development and his ability to weave complex narratives, has contributed significantly to the series’ immense popularity. In this revealing Q&A, we explore the creative partnership with Greyson Black, delving into the unique dynamics that bring their shared vision to life, and the inspirations that fuel the “Manticore’s Shadow.”

Clevenger offers a fascinating glimpse into his writing process, shedding light on the collaborative effort that shapes the “War of Night” universe. We discuss the intricate details of the world they’ve crafted, the challenges and triumphs of co-authoring, and the profound themes that resonate throughout their work. This exclusive interview provides a rare opportunity to understand the creative synergy behind a series that has captured the imaginations of readers worldwide.

About The Author

Tell us more about you

I’m E. Scott Clevenger, a fantasy author, husband, father of two, and average fantasy TTRPG nerd. I’ve lived in the American Midwest my whole life. Born in a small town in the state of Indiana, moved to the Chicagoland area. As much as I LOVE it now, I actually didn’t read Fantasy or Sci-Fi until later in life. (late teens). 

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

A set of dice, pen and paper, and an unhealthy amount of Vanilla Coca-Cola.

Who is your biggest role model?

I would have to say my father. The relationship between Kyrn and Symon (father and son in our Manticore’s Shadow series) is rooted in the relationship between my father and me. It’s a young man (and his dad) trying desperately to avoid the son turning into the father, but ultimately realising that the pride in their family legacy is the most important thing.

I also have to give a nod to my Co-Author Greyson who actually helped form me into the author that I’ve become today. When we first started this journey, I never intended to write, but to help support him. It was through his encouragement and guidance that I ever found the courage to put pen to paper.

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

I could EASILY cheat here! My favourite book: “Old Bones, Old Ways” (unreleased) by Greyson Black and E. Scott Clevenger. It’s the second book in the Manticore’s Shadow series, and the direct sequel to “War of Night.” I am exceptionally proud of the work we’ve done in the second book and cannot wait until it’s ready for publication!

If we’re talking the most IMPACTFUL book, I would go with Stephen King’s “IT.” A book that I read WAY too young, but really showed me what writing was capable of evoking. I appreciate both Stephen King and Brandon Sanderson, not only because of their bodies of work, but the way that they contribute to the writing community and actively guide and encourage the next generation of writers.

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

I, personally, prefer a physical book. The tangible feeling of the pages, the smell of a book, and the weight of it in my hands… all contribute to the reading experience for me. However, over the years, I’ve come to deeply appreciate how e-books and audiobooks have allowed SO many more people to access stories. So, I love them all.

Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?

Right now, it’s my “part-time” job. Basically a self-sufficient hobby. By day, I’m an IT manager and a father. I feel privileged that my “day job” provides me the freedom and comfort to pursue this dream. Over time, my goal is to grow Sainan Books into a small independent book publisher to open that same privilege to authors who may otherwise not be able to. 

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

Threads and Instagram are the primary. Honestly, Threads has been a game changer! I’ve been able to connect with SO many great authors, book supporters, readers, and artists through that community! Without Threads, I’d have not met Literary Louis and had this opportunity!

You can find us/me at:

Your Writing Process

How do you go about starting a new novel?

I’m a plotter/planner. I plan EVERYTHING. I create an outline laying out my act structure and plot points, within the outline I establish my “scenes” and layout who’s in the scene, the mood, the plot points it covers, world building exposed, etc. Then, within the scene, I bullet point the action, the dialogue, the stage settings and such. Then, I write. Each bullet point turns into a few paragraphs, and I just can write to “what inspires me” (normally at a visualisation level) and dig in. 

Where do you like to write?

I write anywhere I can. Home office, day-job office at lunch, laptop while waiting for a plane or on vacation, I’ll even record myself plotting out a scene on the drive home. (Although my voice recordings are AWFUL). Whenever inspiration strikes.

What do you like most about writing?

Seeing the scene take shape. There are moments when I can truly feel something. The other day, I had in my head a line of dialogue. Getting that scene established and seeing those words on the page was satisfying.

What do you find stops you from writing more?

Stress and life. It’s a busy job being a dad. That combined with some stressful days at work will sap the motivation right out. I try to remind myself that writing will often make that feel better and invigorate me, but it’s a tough sell with mental fatigue and mental illness being a thing I fight often.

What genres do you like to write and why?

Fantasy. I love fantasy. Creating magical systems, digging into creation myths, and building worlds that can reflect our world (or more often the world I would love to see) gives me an escape. Something that I’m excited about is moving into “new genres” but within the “fantasy” setting. I’ve got an idea for a murder mystery/crime thriller (think Reacher) but in a fantasy setting deep within our world. Would love to get that on paper some day soon.

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

Learn about the craft, but find your own method. I think there is a TON of great advice out there, but it doesn’t all fit. Plotter techniques only work IF you’re a plotter. They strangled Greyson’s creativity. Be specific to what you’re struggling with and learn about that. When I first started, the WHOLE reason I was hesitant to do it, was that I was unsure why my writing felt “off.” It just wasn’t “good.” Greyson pointed out that I had issues in tense and POV. After watching many, many hours of video, I got that technique down. Suddenly, I felt like an author. Just keep digging until you find you.

Showcase your books!

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

We’ve written all four books of the Manticore’s Shadow series, but only the first is published. We hope to have “Old Bones, Old Ways” out in late 2025/early 2026. It’s my personal favourite and am excited to see it out.

How long did War of Night: The Manticore’s Shadow take to write?

Oh, this is a tricky question. Greyson can give you the mechanical timeline, but… it’s more than that. I originally had the idea for Symon and Kyrn back in 2004. I had a character arc, a subplot, a backdrop, and some “villains.” But it was missing… something. It wasn’t until 2019 when I sat down with Greyson and realised that his “part of a story” was the missing part of OUR story. So over the course of 5 years, we wrote the series, built a publishing company, edited, revised, and re-edited “War of Night.” A labor of love for sure.

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

Talking to people who have read our story. I had a reader message me a “play-by-play” of their reactions as they progressed through “War of Night.” I could follow along in their joy as they discovered the story and feel what she was feeling. If I could bottle “experience” up and have it every day, I would! It was so gratifying, and I just loved it.

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