Q&A with Shayne Nicolai – Author Interview

Shayne Nicholai is an author unafraid to explore the uncertainty, emotion and complexity that come with navigating life’s biggest questions. In this Q&A interview, we sit down with Nicholai to discuss the inspiration behind Life Undecided, the writing journey that shaped the story and the personal experiences that influence the themes woven throughout the book. Honest, thoughtful and refreshingly open, Shayne offers readers an engaging look behind the pages and into the creative process itself.

Throughout the conversation, Shayne Nicholai shares insights into storytelling, character development and the emotional depth that drives Life Undecided. From discussing the challenges of writing authentic characters to exploring the importance of relatable themes, this interview provides an enjoyable and personal perspective on the author’s work. Whether you are already familiar with the novel or simply searching for a meaningful new read, this is a conversation well worth diving into.

About The Author

Tell us more about you.

I’m a queer, trans poet, I designed and drew my own cover, my favorite color is forest green, I love extra cheese pizza, and today’s tarot card pull was the 9 of Chalices.

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

Rope, a knife, and a pot

Who is your biggest role model?

Honestly, right now? My husband. He is the boss applesauce, the man with the plan, and the sanity to my daydreaming.

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

Book would be The White Dragon by Anne McCaffrey, author would be Anne McCaffrey, haha.

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

Physical books all the way!

Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?

I wish! I have a few jobs – technical director at a very LGBTQ+ friendly church being my main one. I run their A/V equipment each week.

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

I like Threads and Bluesky the most, though I’m also on Facebook and Instagram. The engagement is just better on the former. Links to my socials:

Your Writing Process

How do you go about starting a new novel?

Definitely just jump right in, then I’ll go back and plan.

Where do you like to write?

Wherever the inspiration hits? Don’t really have a preference besides a place where I have access to getting it down.

What do you like most about writing?

It provides an outlet for some of the more complex emotions that I’m struggling with finding a way to communicate to others.

What do you find stops you from writing more?

Depression mostly.

What genres do you like to write and why?

I currently just have a book of poetry out, but I am working on a dungeons and dragons type adventure slowly…oh so very slowly.

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

There will always be someone out there who connects with your writing. That is who you are writing for, not the critics.

Showcase Your Book!

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

Just the one so far!

How long did Life Undecided take you to write?

It’s a culmination of poems and songs since roughly 2004 so approximately 20 years

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

Hearing from people who bought my book who could really connect with the words on the pages, that it helped them connect some dots in their own lives with their mental health. That’s why I published.

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