S.B. Fates

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

Well, as you may know, I'm an author who loves delving into the dark and mysterious realms of fiction. I've always been drawn to stories that blend elements of horror, suspense, crime, sci-fi, and fantasy in unique ways. There's just something thrilling about exploring the shadowy corners of the imagination and crafting tales that keep readers on the edge of their seats. When I'm not lost in the world of writing, you can usually find me indulging in my other passions - drawing and comic books. I've been doodling and sketching for as long as I can remember, and there's nothing quite like losing myself in the creative process of bringing characters and scenes to life on paper. Comic books have also been a huge influence on me. I love how they combine powerful storytelling with striking visuals to create these immersive, larger-than-life narratives. While my artwork is more of a personal hobby compared to my writing, I find that it really enriches my creative perspective. The way I visualize scenes and characters in my head often feeds into my writing, helping me paint vivid pictures with words. At the end of the day, I'm just someone who loves the art of storytelling in all its forms. Whether I'm crafting a spine-chilling tale, sketching out a comic book character, or simply getting lost in a great book, I'm always eager to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of what's possible in fiction. It's an incredibly fulfilling journey, and I feel lucky to be able to share my imagination with others through my work.

When and why did you start writing books?

I've been writing stories for as long as I can remember. Even as a kid, I was always scribbling down ideas and letting my imagination run wild. But I think the moment I really fell in love with the craft was back in high school. I had this amazing English teacher who introduced me to authors like Edgar Allan Poe, H.P. Lovecraft, and Stephen King. Their stories just blew my mind - the way they could create these intricate, unsettling worlds and characters that stuck with you long after you finished reading. From then on, I was hooked. I started writing more seriously, experimenting with different styles and genres, trying to find my own unique voice. I was particularly drawn to dark fiction - stories that explored the shadowy depths of the human psyche and the mysterious forces that lurk just beyond our understanding. There was something so thrilling about being able to create these immersive, spine-chilling tales that could transport readers to another realm. As I got older, my passion for writing only grew stronger. I knew I wanted to pursue it as more than just a hobby - I wanted to share my stories with the world. So, I started dedicating more time to honing my craft, attending writing workshops, and connecting with other authors in the genre. It was a lot of hard work, but it was also incredibly rewarding. I think what really drives me to write is the desire to explore the unknown, to ask questions about the nature of reality and the human experience. I love being able to create these complex, multi-layered narratives that blend different genres and challenge readers' expectations. There's just something so magical about being able to bring a story to life on the page and knowing that it has the power to captivate and inspire others. So, I guess you could say I started writing books because I simply couldn't imagine doing anything else. It's a part of who I am, and I feel incredibly grateful to be able to share my passion with readers around the world.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

Deciding to pursue writing as a career was a gradual process for me. Even though I'd been passionate about writing since I was young, it took me a while to build up the courage to take that leap and commit to it full-time. After high school, I found myself at a crossroads. I knew I loved writing, but I wasn't sure if I wanted to pursue it academically. I was eager to dive into the world of work and real-life experiences, to gather the kind of raw material that would fuel my storytelling. So, instead of enrolling in college, I decided to take a different path. I took on various jobs - some creative, some not so much - but all the while, I was observing, learning, and storing away ideas for future stories. I was reading voraciously in my spare time, devouring works by my favorite authors and discovering new voices that inspired me. Even without a formal literary education, I found ways to nurture my craft. I joined local writing groups, attended workshops and seminars when I could, and sought out mentors who could offer guidance and feedback. It was a more unconventional route, but it worked for me. I think what really drove me to pursue writing as a career, even without a college degree, was the realization that I had stories inside me that needed to be told. I didn't want to spend my life wondering "what if?" or feeling like I hadn't given my passion a real shot. So, I took the leap. I started carving out more time for writing, honing my skills, and putting my work out there. It was a gradual process, and there were certainly challenges along the way. But I knew in my heart that this was what I was meant to do. Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing. My journey as a writer may not have followed a traditional path, but it's been a rich and rewarding one nonetheless. And I think, in many ways, my diverse life experiences have only served to deepen and enrich my storytelling.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

Oh, that's a tough one! It's like asking a parent to choose their favorite child. Each of my books and characters holds a special place in my heart, and they've all played a significant role in my journey as a writer. But if I had to pick one that stands out, I'd have to say Morrighan from my latest novel, "Prophecy of the Celtic Warrior." There's just something about her that really resonates with me. When I was creating Morrighan's character, I wanted to craft a hero who embodied the fierce spirit and resilience of the Celtic people, but who also had a complex inner world and a profound sense of duty. Morrighan is a warrior, chosen by destiny to wield a magical sword and unite her people against their oppressors. But she's also deeply human, with fears, doubts, and a yearning for connection. Throughout the story, Morrighan faces incredible challenges - both physical and emotional. She has to navigate treacherous alliances, confront supernatural threats, and make heart-wrenching sacrifices for the greater good. But through it all, she remains true to herself and her mission. She's a character who embodies the idea that even in our darkest moments, we have the power to shape our own destiny. I think what I love most about Morrighan is her complexity. She's not a one-dimensional hero, but a fully realized character with flaws, desires, and a rich inner life. Writing her story allowed me to explore themes of power, sacrifice, and the strength of the human spirit in a way that felt both epic and deeply personal. So, while I cherish all my literary creations, Morrighan and "Prophecy of the Celtic Warrior" hold a special place in my heart. The process of bringing that story to life was a true labor of love, and I'm incredibly proud of the result. Of course, as a writer, I'm always looking forward to the next story, the next character that will capture my imagination. But Morrighan will always remain a defining part of my journey, a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring magic of the Celtic world.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

"101 Tales of Terror and Wonder" was definitely one of the most challenging projects I've ever taken on as a writer. It pushed me to my limits in terms of creativity, versatility, and sheer endurance. The idea behind the anthology was to create a vast tapestry of stories that blended elements of horror, science fiction, fantasy, mystery, crime, and suspense in unique and unexpected ways. I wanted each tale to stand on its own, but also contribute to a larger narrative that explored the boundless possibilities of imaginative fiction. Writing 101 distinct stories, each with its own voice, style, and genre-blending elements, was a monumental task. It required me to constantly shift gears, to dive deep into different worlds and characters, and to find fresh ways to combine familiar tropes and themes. Some stories came easily, pouring out of me in a frenzy of inspiration. Others were like pulling teeth, requiring countless drafts and revisions before they felt right. There were moments when I doubted myself, when I wondered if I had taken on too much, if I could really do justice to the ambitious scope of the project. But I kept pushing forward, driven by a passion for storytelling and a desire to create something truly unique. I drew inspiration from my love of classic genre fiction, from the works of masters like Lovecraft, Bradbury, and King, but also from the cutting-edge voices shaping the future of speculative fiction. In the end, "101 Tales of Terror and Wonder" became more than just a collection of stories. It became a testament to the power of imagination, to the endless possibilities of fiction. It stretched me as a writer in ways I never thought possible, forcing me to confront my own limits and push beyond them. Looking back, I'm incredibly proud of what I achieved with this anthology. It's a work that truly embodies my passion for genre-blending, for exploring the dark and wondrous corners of the human experience. It's a project that challenged me to be a better writer, to take risks and embrace the unknown. Of course, it wasn't an easy journey. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, when the sheer scale of the anthology seemed insurmountable. But I learned to trust in my own storytelling instincts, to let the stories guide me even as I shaped them. In the end, "101 Tales of Terror and Wonder" stands as a defining moment in my career as a writer. It's a work that pushed me to my limits and beyond, that forced me to grow and evolve in ways I never imagined. And for that, it will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the boundless power of storytelling and the enduring magic of the imagination.

Who is your favourite author and book?

When it comes to my favorite author and book, it's hard to choose just one. There are so many incredible writers and stories that have shaped me as a reader and a writer over the years. But if I had to pick a single author who has had the most profound impact on me, it would have to be H.P. Lovecraft. Lovecraft was a master of cosmic horror, a pioneer in the realm of weird fiction. His stories were a revelation to me when I first encountered them as a young reader. The way he could evoke a sense of existential dread, of the vast and unknowable forces lurking just beyond the veil of reality, was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. In particular, his novella "At the Mountains of Madness" stands out as a personal favorite. The story follows a group of scientists who embark on an expedition to Antarctica, only to uncover the remains of an ancient and alien civilization. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of this lost world, they confront unspeakable horrors and grapple with the realization of humanity's insignificance in the face of cosmic forces. What I love about "At the Mountains of Madness" is the way Lovecraft builds a sense of mounting dread and unease. The icy, desolate landscape of Antarctica becomes a character in its own right, a haunting backdrop for the unfolding horror. And the revelation of the Elder Things, the alien beings that once inhabited this lost world, is a moment of pure, existential terror. But beyond the scares and the otherworldly elements, what really resonates with me about Lovecraft's work is the way he grapples with the big questions of existence. His stories are a meditation on the nature of reality, on the limits of human understanding, and on our place in the vast and indifferent universe. As a writer, I've drawn endless inspiration from Lovecraft's blend of cosmic horror and philosophical speculation. His work has challenged me to think bigger, to push the boundaries of genre and to explore the dark corners of the imagination. Of course, Lovecraft was a product of his time, and some of his views and themes can be problematic through a modern lens. But I believe that engaging with his work critically, acknowledging its flaws while also appreciating its profound impact on the genre, is an important part of being a reader and a writer. In the end, H.P. Lovecraft and "At the Mountains of Madness" will always hold a special place in my heart. They represent a key moment in my development as a reader and a writer, a gateway into the vast and wondrous realm of weird fiction. And they continue to inspire me to this day, to push the boundaries of my own storytelling and to grapple with the big questions of existence through the lens of imaginative fiction.

What book are you reading right now?

At the moment, I'm diving into "The City We Became" by N.K. Jemisin. It's a book that's been on my radar for a while, and I finally managed to carve out some time to sit down and immerse myself in it. For those who aren't familiar, "The City We Became" is a unique blend of urban fantasy and Lovecraftian horror, set in a vividly reimagined New York City. In Jemisin's world, cities are born, grow, and evolve much like living organisms, and New York is on the cusp of awakening to its true, sentient form. But this awakening is not without peril. An ancient, otherworldly evil threatens to consume the city, and its fate rests in the hands of five individuals, each embodying one of the city's boroughs. These unlikely heroes must learn to wield their newfound powers and work together to save their city from annihilation. What I'm loving about this book so far is the way Jemisin weaves together the threads of fantasy, horror, and social commentary. The story is as much about the soul of a city as it is about the individuals fighting to save it. Jemisin delves into issues of gentrification, racism, and the complexities of urban identity, all while crafting a thrilling and utterly unique fantasy narrative. As a writer who often blends genres myself, I'm in awe of the way Jemisin seamlessly fuses these disparate elements into a cohesive and compelling whole. Her world-building is rich and immersive, her characters are vividly drawn and emotionally resonant, and her prose is sharp and evocative. Reading "The City We Became" has been a master class in storytelling for me. It's a reminder of the power of imaginative fiction to not only entertain, but to also grapple with the real-world issues that shape our lives and our societies. I'm about halfway through the book now, and I'm utterly hooked. I can't wait to see how Jemisin brings this epic story to a close, and I know that the ideas and themes she's exploring will stay with me long after I turn the final page. As a writer, reading a book like "The City We Became" is both inspiring and humbling. It pushes me to be more daring in my own work, to explore new ideas and perspectives, and to use the tools of genre fiction to say something meaningful about the world we live in. So if you're looking for a book that will challenge you, thrill you, and make you think, I can't recommend "The City We Became" highly enough. It's a true masterwork of contemporary fantasy, and a testament to the boundless power of the imagination.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

Inspiration is a funny thing. It can strike at the most unexpected moments, from the most surprising sources. As a writer, I've learned to keep my mind open, to be always ready to catch those fleeting sparks of ideas and nurture them into fully-fledged stories. In a sense, everything I experience, everything I see, hear, read, or feel, becomes potential fodder for my writing. I draw inspiration from the world around me, from the people I meet, the places I go, and the stories I encounter. Sometimes, inspiration comes from my own life experiences. The emotions I've felt, the challenges I've faced, the moments of joy and sorrow - all of these can be woven into my stories, adding depth and authenticity to my characters and their journeys. Other times, inspiration comes from the works of other creators. A haunting melody, a striking image, a powerful line of poetry - these can all plant the seeds of a story in my mind. I'm a voracious consumer of art in all its forms, and I find that exposing myself to a wide range of creative works helps to keep my own imagination fertile and vibrant. But perhaps the most potent source of inspiration for me is the realm of myth, folklore, and legend. I've always been fascinated by the stories that have endured through the ages, the tales that tap into something primal and universal in the human experience. From the ancient Greek myths to the Viking sagas, from the African folktales to the Native American legends, these stories are a wellspring of inspiration for me. They deal with the big themes - love, death, courage, betrayal, the search for meaning in a chaotic world. And they do so through the lens of the fantastical, the supernatural, the larger-than-life. In my own writing, I often draw upon these mythic archetypes and themes, weaving them into my stories in new and unexpected ways. The result is a blend of the timeless and the contemporary, the familiar and the fresh. Of course, inspiration is only the starting point. The real work of writing is in the crafting, the shaping of those raw ideas into a coherent and compelling narrative. That's where the sweat and the tears come in, the long hours of drafting and revising, the moments of doubt and frustration. But through it all, inspiration remains the guiding light, the north star that keeps me pushing forward. It's what drives me to tell stories, to explore the depths of the human experience, to grapple with the big questions of existence through the medium of fiction. So while inspiration may come from many sources, for me it all boils down to a love of storytelling, a fascination with the power of narrative to move and transform us. And as long as there are stories to be told, I know I'll never run out of inspiration.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

When I'm not lost in the pages of a book or hunched over my keyboard, weaving tales of the dark and the fantastic, I find joy and rejuvenation in a variety of pursuits. One of my greatest passions outside of writing is exploring the great outdoors. There's something about being in nature, surrounded by the raw beauty of the world, that stirs my soul and quiets my mind. Whether I'm hiking through misty forests, climbing rugged mountain trails, or simply sitting by a babbling brook, I find a deep sense of peace and connection in the wild places of the earth. These outdoor adventures often become a source of inspiration for my writing. The majesty of a towering redwood, the eerie stillness of a fog-shrouded moor, the primal power of a thundering waterfall - these experiences etch themselves into my memory and later find their way onto the page, imbuing my stories with a sense of atmosphere and wonder. Another way I love to spend my free time is by immersing myself in the world of art. As I mentioned before, I have a deep love for drawing and sketching, and I often lose myself for hours in the meditative flow of putting pencil to paper. There's a special kind of magic in watching a blank page come to life with forms and shadows, in seeing the visions in my mind's eye take shape before me. I'm also an avid appreciator of other forms of art. I love wandering through galleries and museums, marveling at the creations of master painters, sculptors, and photographers. I find endless inspiration in the way these artists capture the human experience, the way they use color, line, and form to evoke emotion and provoke thought. Music is another great love of mine. I'm a firm believer in the power of music to transport us, to stir our souls and ignite our imaginations. I have a diverse and eclectic taste, ranging from haunting classical compositions to pulsing electronic beats, from soulful blues to soaring operatic arias. Often, when I'm in the thick of writing, I'll curate a playlist to match the mood and tone of the story, letting the music guide my words and emotions. But perhaps my most treasured leisure activity is simply spending time with the people I love. Writing can be a solitary pursuit, and it's easy to get lost in the worlds of my own creation. That's why it's so important for me to nurture my connections with family and friends, to share laughter and stories over a good meal, to go on adventures and make memories together. These relationships keep me grounded, remind me of what's truly important in life. And they also enrich my writing in immeasurable ways. The quirks and contradictions of the people I love, the joys and sorrows we've shared, the lessons we've learned together - all of this becomes the raw material from which I craft my characters and their journeys. So while my writing may be the central pillar of my life, it is by no means the only one. In my spare time, I seek out experiences that nourish my soul, that fill me with wonder and inspiration, that remind me of the beauty and complexity of the world we live in. And I bring all of this back to the page, weaving it into stories that, I hope, will move and inspire others in turn.

Do you have any new books in the works?

You know, it's a funny thing. When I'm in the thick of writing a book, it feels like it consumes my every waking thought. The characters become like real people to me, their struggles and triumphs playing out in my mind even when I'm not actively putting words on the page. And when I finally type that last sentence, when I know the story has reached its conclusion, there's this incredible sense of accomplishment, of having brought something new and meaningful into the world. That's exactly how I feel right now, having just finished "Prophecy of the Celtic Warrior." This book has been a true labor of love for me, a chance to delve deep into the rich mythology and history of the Celtic people, to explore themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the power of the human spirit. Morrighan's journey, her transformation from a young warrior to a legendary hero, has been a profound one to chronicle. Now that the book is complete and ready to meet its readers, I find myself in a sort of liminal space. It's a time of excitement, of anticipation, of wondering how the story will resonate with others. But it's also a time of reflection, of looking back on the creative journey and marveling at how a simple spark of an idea can grow into a fully-realized narrative. As for what comes next, I'll admit that I don't have any concrete plans at the moment. Writing a book, especially one as intense and immersive as "Prophecy of the Celtic Warrior," takes a lot out of you. It's important to give yourself time to recharge, to refill the creative well. That being said, I'm always on the lookout for new ideas, for those flashes of inspiration that could grow into my next project. I keep a notebook with me at all times, jotting down snippets of dialogue, fragments of scenes, kernels of concepts that intrigue me. Some of these may never evolve beyond a few scribbled lines, but others... who knows? They may just become the seeds of my next novel. I've learned that inspiration can strike at the most unexpected times, in the most unexpected places. It might be a haunting dream that lingers after waking, a chance encounter with a stranger that sparks a "what if," a news article that sets my imagination spinning. The trick is to stay open, to keep my writer's antennae up, to trust that when the right idea comes along, I'll know it in my bones. In the meantime, I'm content to let my mind wander, to play in the realm of possibilities. I might dabble in some short stories, experiment with different genres or styles, just to keep those creative muscles limber. Or I might take some time to immerse myself in the works of other writers, to study the craft and be inspired by the incredible stories being told around me. But one thing I know for sure: there will be another book. Writing is as much a part of me as breathing, and I can't imagine a life without it. So while I may not have a specific project in the pipeline at this very moment, I have no doubt that the next big idea is out there, waiting to be discovered. And when it comes, when that spark ignites into a flame, I'll be ready to pour my heart and soul onto the page once again, to craft a story that will, I hope, captivate and inspire readers just as much as "Prophecy of the Celtic Warrior" has. Because that's what it's all about for me - using the power of words to connect, to move, to challenge and to change. And I can't wait to see where that power takes me next.