Interview With Author Viktor Tonchev
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Viktor Tonchev, and I am a science fiction author driven by a passion for exploring the unknown. I’ve always been fascinated by the mysteries of the cosmos, the rise of artificial intelligence, and the philosophical questions surrounding humanity’s origins.
I have written one full-length novel so far — Return to Sirius — a deeply personal and visionary work that blends hard science fiction with themes of ethics, survival, and the enduring power of memory. The story follows a forgotten civilization whose last hope for survival lies in a spaceship bound for Earth — and two children born from artificial wombs, destined to carry on its legacy.
This is my debut novel, but it is only the beginning. I am already working on the next installment.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my latest book is Return to Sirius. It was inspired by my lifelong fascination with the idea that humanity might not have originated on Earth. I’ve always been drawn to stories that blend science with philosophy, and I wanted to explore what it would mean if our true origins were interstellar.
The idea came from pondering ancient myths, the mystery of lost civilizations, and the rapid rise of technology in our modern world. What if we are not the first advanced species on this planet? What if our past is connected to the stars — and we’ve simply forgotten?
Return to Sirius became my way of weaving these questions into a story that is both speculative and deeply human.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know if it’s unusual, but I tend to write late at night — often after midnight — when the world is quiet and feels a little more like outer space. That silence helps me enter the mindset of my characters and immerse myself in distant worlds.
Another habit I have is creating full background dossiers for even minor characters — their past, their beliefs, their fears — even if most of it never appears in the book. It helps me write them as real people, not just tools for the plot.
I also keep a notebook near my bed because many of my best ideas come in dreams or just as I’m falling asleep.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
One of my earliest influences was Jules Verne. As a child, his stories sparked my imagination and gave me a love for adventure, exploration, and the power of science. Books like Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Journey to the Center of the Earth were my first glimpse into what science fiction could be.
Later, I was deeply inspired by authors who brought more philosophical depth to the genre. Arthur C. Clarke, especially Childhood’s End and 2001: A Space Odyssey, made me realize that science fiction can ask the biggest questions about human existence and our place in the cosmos.
Isaac Asimov’s structured logic and ethical exploration in the Foundation and Robot series influenced the way I think about technology and responsibility. Stanisław Lem, especially Solaris, taught me that not all answers are knowable—and sometimes the most profound stories are the ones that leave us with questions.
More recently, Liu Cixin’s Three-Body Problem trilogy impressed me with its scope, imagination, and bold scientific extrapolation.
All of them shaped the way I write and think. For me, science fiction isn’t just about the future — it’s about discovering deeper truths through imagined realities.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on the sequel to Return to Sirius. The story follows the descendants of the Eleans, born and raised on Earth, as they embark on a bold interstellar journey back to the Sirius system.
This new installment explores not only the fate of Elea, but also the deeper question: what does it mean to return “home” when home is a myth, a memory… or a warning.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Amazon KDP is my primary publishing platform, offering global reach and access to a wide audience.
Social media also plays a key role. I focus on building an active presence on Facebook and engaging with sci-fi reader groups, where word-of-mouth recommendations often generate the most genuine interest.
In the end, consistency, patience, and a personal connection with readers prove far more valuable than any paid promotional site.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write the story only you can tell. Don’t chase trends—chase truth. Even in science fiction or fantasy, the heart of a good book is always something deeply human.
Be patient with your progress, and don’t be afraid to rewrite. Editing is where the real magic happens. Publishing is a journey, not a race. Stay consistent, believe in your message, and don’t underestimate the power of even one reader being moved by your words.
Above all — keep writing. The world needs stories like yours.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Write what makes you feel something—even if it scares you.”
That advice changed the way I approach storytelling. The most powerful writing often comes from the place where honesty meets vulnerability. If a scene gives you chills or brings a tear to your eye, chances are it will resonate with others too.
Authenticity is what stays with readers long after they finish the book.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. I admire how he blends scientific accuracy with emotional depth. It’s a great reminder that even in space, the most compelling stories are always about human connection and survival.
What’s next for you as a writer?
After the sequel to Return to Sirius, I plan to expand the universe I’ve created—possibly into a full trilogy. I’m also developing a new standalone science fiction novel that blends mystery, technology, and philosophical questions — set in the present day.
My goal is to keep telling stories that challenge perspectives and inspire a sense of wonder.
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?
If I were stranded on a desert island, I would choose books that offer inspiration, wisdom, and a sense of adventure:
Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe – the ultimate survival story and a timeless guide to resilience and adaptation.
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson – for its adventurous spirit, pirate lore, and the thrill of searching for something greater.
2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke – for its philosophical depth and visionary outlook on humanity’s place in the universe.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir – a modern tale of ingenuity, isolation, and hope against impossible odds.
These books would keep my mind sharp, my imagination alive, and my spirit strong — even in the loneliest of places.
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