Author Interview: Trinity Cunningham

What inspired you to write in the fantasy/sci-fi genre, and how does that inspiration reflect in your stories?

I write fantasy, but I’ve always loved sci-fi ever since early childhood. The stories that I imagined always played out as science fiction—space, advanced tech, alien species, futuristic real-world scenarios, etc.

It was only after I began writing my first book and it came out as fantasy that I really got into the genre. When I look back, I realize I always have, but never would have thought anything of it. It was just what I loved.

Since starting my writing journey, I found out I have a knack for creating completely made-up worlds and creatures. Although not so much the creatures part—not yet anyway. A lot of my creating ability focuses on plant-life in particular, among other things.

 Why did you choose the indie author route to publication?

I decided this route because it allowed me to have the most control over both my writing and my schedule. I'm a stay-at-home mom, and at the time that I decided to self-publish, I was also homeschooling my kids. It just made the most sense, since I’d already invested in my work.

 Can you share a bit about the world-building process in your series or novel? How do you balance creativity with consistency?

I suppose I’ve always had these worlds tumbling around in my head. So when it was time to draft them into stories, it felt natural to describe places I’ve lived in in my mind for so long. Now I get to share it all with the world and it’s such a cool feeling.

What unique challenges do you face as an indie author in the fantasy/sci-fi genre, and how do you overcome them?

I had a moment when writing my first book, and I was trying to determine the amount of time it would take my characters to get from one end of the country to the other. I didn’t expect that I’d have to learn a thing or two about the size of a country and calculating population density. In the real world, we can look it up and gauge the distances apart. But in a world entirely of my own making, I should have something of an idea of how big the place is. As it happens, the country in my first book is actually quite small, but unique in its own right.

In overcoming this challenge, I did some research and familiarized myself with land-size and such.

 Who are your favorite fantasy/sci-fi authors or works, and in what ways have they influenced your writing?

I love The Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss and The Maze Runner trilogy by James Dashner. Those are my favourites. I recently read the Red Rising Trilogy and fell in love with Pierce Brown’s writing style. I was inspired by his character development—how well they’re portrayed and how emotionally attached I grew to them. I hope I can do so well at achieving a similar effect with my own characters.

 How do you develop your characters, and who is your favorite character from your works? Why?

My characters are the first to start a story in my head. As I take time to consider who the person is, I consider their gender, their job, their role in that particular story and all that will ensue from whatever inciting incident comes to mind and how they will respond—how does the character react in certain situations.

My favourite character from my own works? That’s a bit tricky. Every one of my characters has a special place in my heart—villains included.

Raidan, who’s the main protagonist in my debut novel Blood Bound, is such a relatable character to myself. But then Mick in my current WIP is the one who started this whole series. Then there’s Sam, who was my first character I ever thought of. If I were to pick a favourite out of all of them, I’d have to go with Mick. I love his quick wit and easy-going personality. He cracks jokes at the worst moments.

Could you discuss the role of magic/science or fantastical/sci-fi elements in your stories? How do you create rules and limitations for them?

The magic in the Guardians of the Weldafire Stone series is elemental. It came from a storm that passed through the country and affected only a particular region. The storm was summoned with the purpose of protecting the land from destruction. This country which the story takes place in is very much alive and has a character of its own in a way.

How do you approach the plotting and planning of your series or novels? Do you prefer to map everything out beforehand or let the story evolve as you write?

 I’m definitely a pantser, although I do map out along the way. I have a system in which I write some, plot the next bit in jot notes, write some more, plot some more, etc. It requires a lot of revising afterward because as things come to light in my own thoughts, I usually have to go back and adjust the story as needed. But it’s a system that works for me.

What is a theme or message you hope readers take away from your work?

Generally, I tend to include a theme of overcoming fear and pressing on. Doing what’s right. Good vs. evil and all. Each story has other themes weaved into the plot, depending on the characters and their arcs. Blood Bound includes themes in forgiveness.

In what ways do you connect with your readers, and how has their feedback influenced your writing?

I post on social media and try to make a point to respond to comments when there are any to respond to.

Because I’m a brand new published author, I’ve not had much feedback from readers to influence my work. Beta readers have been super helpful and my editor is fantastic.

As an indie author, what advice would you give to aspiring writers wanting to publish in the fantasy/sci-fi genre?

Don’t rush. I’ve heard it so many times from other authors not to rush ahead. Yes, it’s so exciting to get that first piece of writing drafted and completed, but there is still a process if you want to put your best work out there. Take your time and enjoy the process.

What are the biggest challenges you face as an indie author?

I will say, it is difficult to get the reach that’s accessible through traditional publishing. It’s a big job to put yourself out there and try to find the right target audience, and get your book into the right hands. I’ve had to step out of my comfort zone on a few occasions, but I believe a story that’s written and told well, will make that part of the work easier. So how do I overcome these challenges? I invest in my work; treat it like a profession that I wish to succeed in. In the end, I hope it shows, and that readers will love the stories I have to tell.

Links here –

Website: www.trinitycunningham.ca

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TrinityCun

Instagram: www.instagram.com/trinncun

Twitter: www.twitter.com/trincun

Thank you!