Rachel Hunter
What inspired you to write your first book?
I’ve always had an infatuation with writing – as well as a penchant for speculative fiction – so what better way to express my deep-seated love of words than to create a symphony of my own? “Empyreal Fate” is the first fantasy novel that I have published, and I have dedicated it to my father. He helped inspire my love of fantasy and science fiction by subjecting me to various novels, concepts, and role-playing games when I was young; and that fascination never left. Now I aspire to incite intrigue within readers – to provide them with new realms and vast kingdoms of my own. I wish for others to feel what I have felt while escaping between the covers of a book; I wish to transport readers to a separate time and place… a place in which the impossible becomes reality.
What books have most influenced your life most?
I cannot simply choose – not even a few. In truth, everything I’ve read has impacted me in some way: whether great or small, for good or for ill. Sometimes the impact sparks a thought, and other times, a simple pass; but a written work cannot go by without leaving some sort of mark: visible or unseen. That is the power of words. And when one is able to wield them in perfect harmony, the strands of meaning become chords of majesty.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
Well, I take quite fondly to works written by Terry Brooks, David Eddings, Tad Williams, and J.R.R. Tolkien. They have inspired me with their marvelous tales, and I have spent many a fine day pouring over each of their series and escaping Earth for a time. Brilliant figures; wonderful tales.
What genre do you consider your book(s)?
“Empyreal Fate” is a fantasy novel in my “Llathalan Annal” series. It comprises the genres of epic fantasy and dark fantasy, and I incorporate language that evokes a poetic air. Indeed, I write to a tune in my head, and I wish to engage that in my series as well.
What book are you reading now?
Oh, my reading list is simply endless! Despite having something readily available to read at any given time, I continuously add to my reading log, so I think I may be ‘booked’ for several years to come. (Which is marvelous indeed!) Currently, I am studying for college finals, so much of my reading consists of textbook chapters focusing on Chemistry, Psychology, Statistics, etc… I have not yet decided which novel I wish to try once summer begins, but I have my eye on a few titles.
Can you share a little of your current work with us?
Besides my current release of “Empyreal Fate”, I am also working on a concept for a Steampunk novel. At this time, I am not divulging anything about it – other than that it consists of a Victorian flair with a fantastical/science fiction twist.
Who designed your covers?
The wonderful Peter Bradley portrayed the elven royalblood, Amarya, on my cover for “Fate”. I am quite partial to his work and am honored that he was willing to portray my novel through his art.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
The most difficult part for me was determining where to end the first novel. At first, I wrote over 500k words and decided that was far too long for any one reader to devour. I’ve since trimmed it down (quite a bit) and have thus made way for a series rather than one large stand-alone tome. The words refused to be silent. They begged to be told.
Do you write an outline before every book you write?
I use limited outlines; in fact, hardly any at all. That would make me a “pantser”, I suppose. I write from the seat of my pants – as the words flow. I find that major outlines only limit my work. Every day is a new day, no? So who’s to say tomorrow’s ideas won’t be better than today’s? Or what about six months from now? Nope – I go where the Muse takes me any given day, for it is an abstract entity. It does not fit within a hard outline. Nor shall I force it to.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
“READ. Immerse yourself in a little bit of everything; take nothing for granted.
Write for the soul, and write what you’re truly passionate about. Readers will not feel that passion unless you pour it into your work. Breathe words. Feel the rhythm in your veins, and release the inspiration on parchment (or whatever medium you so choose). Let nothing hide. Give rise to your confidence and inner being; connect with the divine. And write the story that needs to be told.
Write. Create. Be~”
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Try to look beyond the mere mortal contrivance of words, and grasp instead the deeper meaning within: the depths of the soul and the meaning of virtue. As a writer, I wish to share an invigorating tale, yet I also want to inspire and spark interest toward the human psyche. Listen to the pattern of words – yes… but also take away the ambiguity of life: the divine essence within us all. Read and awaken. And not just with “Empyreal Fate”. Do the same with every book your eyes devour.