Interview With Author Geoff Vale
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Writing found me at a time when I was at my lowest, both emotionally and physically. My journey began while I was homeless, sleeping on my brother’s couch, fresh from a failed stint in New York City and mired in a slew of vices and depression. Rather than serving as a tragic backdrop, these circumstances forged me into the writer I am today. Writing wasn’t a whimsical fantasy; it was an escape, a lifeboat that kept me afloat amidst a raging sea of challenges.
My work is primarily grounded in Contemporary Fantasy, a genre that has fascinated me since my youth, thanks to iconic shows like ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’. Yet, the most unique thing about my writing is the inspiration I draw from real life. I’ve had the fortune—good and bad—to encounter some of the most interesting personalities this world has to offer. Each one, whether they brought joy or sorrow, has become fuel for my storytelling, imbuing my characters with facets of authenticity.
While ‘A Heart of Fire’ is my debut, its inception actually dates back nearly a decade. Recently, dissatisfaction with a seemingly endless cycle of unfulfilling jobs nudged me back to this long-forgotten passion. This book isn’t just a tale I wish to share; it’s the embodiment of a path I need to tread, a calling I can no longer ignore.
So here I am, presenting to the world my very first offering, ‘A Heart of Fire’, the inaugural volume of the Nightling Trilogy. It’s not just a book; it’s a slice of me, an offering from my past, a beacon for my future, and above all, a story I am extremely proud of.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The muse for “A Heart of Fire” descends from a lifelong affection for the Fantasy genre, ignited by iconic stories like “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” and later on “Vampire Diaries.” Willow, for instance, was akin to a best friend during my formative years. Yet, as much as I relish vampires and their lore, it felt necessary to shift the spotlight—I want to welcome people in to The Season of the Witch. This tale serves as an antithesis to vampiric dominion, a fresh path untrodden in contemporary fantasy.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Balancing my life as a Network Operations Specialist with a 9-5 routine and my writing career has always been a challenge. Yet, even in the face of such time constraints, my mind is a relentless engine that doesn’t know how to quit. I am a light sleeper, and many nights I find myself jolted awake by an idea that refuses to wait for morning. It’s as if my creativity knows no bounds, no schedule, and drives me from sleep to put pen to paper.
When it comes to setting the mood for writing, particularly during the grueling editing phase, my workstation transforms. Music serves as a backdrop, filling the room with melodies that fuel my focus. I surround myself with candles to create an ambiance, and there are always pens and paper within arm’s reach for jotting down immediate thoughts. To avoid the onset of mental fatigue, I engage in small side projects that act as a palate cleanser, refreshing my mind so I can approach my work with a renewed perspective.
Concentration during writing sessions comes easier with background noise and music. These subtle distractions actually help me channel my thoughts more clearly. As for tools, I sometimes delve into my Tumblr and LiveJournal accounts from years gone by. They’re like treasure troves, rich with emotional experiences and thoughts that I recorded as my younger self, offering raw, unfiltered inspiration for my writing.
Speaking of distractions, I have a unique practice that some might find peculiar. I deliberately engage in minor diversions as a form of mental reset. These distractions serve as palate cleansers (I can’t stress this enough) that allow me to re-immerse myself into the writing and editing process, fully rejuvenated and ready to tackle the next challenge.
Unusual, perhaps. Effective? Absolutely.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Drawing inspiration from an eclectic array of sources, I owe much of my writing style and storytelling approach to my own evolving tastes and interests. As unconventional as it may sound, I’ve found that my own thoughts and ideas have been the most impactful. My writing style is a blend of all the diverse things that capture my attention, from inspiring quotes to books on psychology like “No Bad Parts” by Richard C. Schwartz.
When it comes to literary influences, “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is a touchstone I return to frequently. Its enduring wisdom serves as a guiding light, particularly during times of stress and anxiety. On the opposite end of the spectrum, I’ve occasionally stepped out of my fantasy comfort zone and delved into humor, albeit with mixed feelings. “I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell” by Tucker Max was an eye-opening experience, to say the least.
However, if there’s a book that ignited my aspirations of becoming a writer, it’s “Wicked” by Gregory Maguire. The character of Elphaba truly captured my imagination, encouraging me to delve deeper into the art of storytelling. And as for my current and future work? After re-reading my debut novel, “A Heart of Fire,” I felt both pleased and inspired to continue the journey. I’m currently working on the second volume of ‘The Nightling Trilogy,’ tentatively titled “A Mind of Water.”
So, while I draw from a wide range of influences, the most potent catalyst for my writing remains my own imagination, complemented by the intriguing and sometimes contradictory books I’ve encountered along the way.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently immersed in the crafting of Volume II of ‘The Nightling Trilogy,’ which is intriguingly titled ‘A Mind of Water.’ At this stage, I’ve penned the first chapter and am navigating my characters deeper into uncharted territories, particularly the enigmatic Spirit Realm. This volume aims to push boundaries in both theme and storytelling, diverging from my previous work by delving into the psychological toll that supernatural gifts can exact. It promises a darker, richer narrative texture that complements the ongoing ‘Season of the Witch’ series. What excites me most is the opportunity to explore creatures of lore, some well-known and others waiting to be discovered. Readers can anticipate a literary journey that not only extends the storyline but enriches the mythological tapestry of the world I loved crafting together.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I will definitely let you know when I can truly say “It actually freaking worked!”
Do you have any advice for new authors?
The writing journey is a complex one, fraught with its unique set of challenges and triumphs. The most crucial lesson I’ve learned is to passionately love your work and to stand behind it unapologetically. Don’t hold back during the editing process; be as brutal as necessary to refine your manuscript into the best version of itself.
Navigating the world of publishing and promotion presents its own hurdles. Beware the scams and pitfalls that target creative minds. Always do your research, particularly when someone approaches you with an offer that seems too good to be true. The industry is rife with false promises. However, remember that genuine artists, writers, and dreamers are out there, and they’ve got your back. Building a network of trustworthy peers can be your most valuable asset.
And through all the ups and downs, my personal mantra has been simple but effective: ‘Keep going, you can do this!’ It’s the mental push I need when faced with obstacles, ensuring that I stay the course and continue to pursue my passion for storytelling.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
TBD
What are you reading now?
Ideas, theories, concepts I’ve written and trashed.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Immediately, my focus is on completing ‘A Mind of Water,’ the second volume in ‘The Nightling Trilogy.’ I’m hopeful that writing will become my full-time career, allowing me to wrap up the trilogy and engage with readers on a deeper level. Longer-term, I aim to diversify my portfolio, inviting collaborations with other authors and artists. It’s a goal that excites me, for I believe that art thrives most when it’s a collective endeavor.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Alchemist, Wicked, A Discovery of Witches, and a blank book that I can write on with sharpened charcoal.
Author Websites and Profiles
Geoff Vale’s Social Media Links