Q&A with Stephen F. Black – Author Interview

Stephen F. Black has captivated readers with his thrilling storytelling and rich world-building in The Adventures of Tarum Mon. Now, we have the exciting opportunity to go behind the scenes with the author himself in this exclusive Q&A. From the inspirations that shaped his writing to the challenges of bringing his characters to life, Stephen shares a glimpse into his creative process.

In this interview, we explore the themes that drive The Adventures of Tarum Mon, the journey of writing and publishing, and what’s next for Stephen F. Black. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his work, this conversation offers valuable insights into the mind of a talented storyteller.

About The Author

Tell us more about you

Fun Fact: I have a Diploma level 3 for Writing for Children.

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

Three items I would take to a desert island are a picture of my wife and daughter, a good book and an empty bottle to use, in case I found fresh water.

Who is your biggest role model?

My Biggest role model would be my mum, who fought off cancer until it claimed her, her strength and compassion for others, even when she was really ill, was heroic.

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

My Favourite book is Eragon by Christopher Paolini, I love the world and the characters, but my favourite author was the late Terry Pratchett his Colour of Magic got into loving fantasy.

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

I like both eBooks and psychical but also love a great audiobook so I’m quite eclectic.

Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?

I would love to make writing my full-time job but as a happily married dad of a toddler, I can’t so I am trying for a part-time job.

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

I use TikTok a lot, but recently, I found Threads by Instagram, so as I connect my username to both, I can use both of these.

My social channels are:

Your Writing Process

How do you go about starting a new novel?

I already have all seven novels in my head and have created a title and backstory for each being autistic has its advantages as when I go into something I give it everything.

Where do you like to write?

I write on a Microsoft book and use Word, I have a writing desk setup with my family photos, mascots and stuff I need to help and inspire me.

What do you like most about writing?

What I love most about writing is the pure escapism that it can create, delving into my world is like coming home so in theory I live in the real world and Xexus my fantasy one.

What do you find stops you from writing more?

Life gets in the way of writing, but I love my wife and daughter so I will happily take what I have I am so grateful for them and my dad as without them I would be a very different person.

What genres do you like to write and why?

I like to write what I love YA high Fantasy the reason I like this genre is my world can be so open and anything within reason is possible.

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

The advice I would give to aspiring writers is work hard be you don’t be what the world wants and follow your heart, if something fells off don’t take that option.

Showcase your books!

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

I have only published one book so far, my first in my series, but I have actually finished 5 novellas with new characters introductions and more to come and am halfway through writing my second one.

How long did The Adventures of Tarum Mon take to write?

My world building and book series has taken me over 11+ years that’s creating my entire world from scratch and the characters, beasts, magic structure and more, my debut The Adventures of Tarum Mon was ongoing project throughout my life so to see it come out as a paperback and soon to be kindle and KU is amazing.

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

My favourite thing about being an author is the interaction I hope to garnish from my readers and being able to inspire new authors to take their back out of the page into the real world.

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