This post contains affiliate links and clicking on them and make a purchase this may result in us earning compensation without costing you anything. Money gained through affiliates helps keep this website up and running. All thoughts and reviews on these books are my own honest opinions. For more information about my affiliates and disclosures check out the Policies and Disclosures page.
Tell our readers briefly about yourself.
Mornin, I am James Quinlan Meservy. Creator of Creatures, Embellisher of Events, and Firebrand "Stories that Kindle Imagination." I grew up all over northern Utah, and consider Mendon, Ut, my hometown. I love to write and read fantasy novels.
Can you tell us about your most recent release? Album? Song? Art piece? Etc.?
My most recent release is "Within the Shadows, Rai Saga Short Story Anthology Vol. 1." It is a collection of shorts that provide a bit of back-story and context to secondary characters in the Realm of the Light series.
What inspires you?
My writing inspirations are usually the result of my dreams, or conversations with other creatives, not just authors. For example, my stand-alone short story, Definition of Evil, was inspired by a conversation I had with a screenwriter friend of mine. These ideas pop up in my head, and when an idea sticks, I know it is a great one.
What is your creative work routine like? Do you balance it with another job?
Great question. I work as a forklift operator in a warehouse full of dehydrated potatoes. The company I work for is great, the schedule is consistent, and when I am feeling well, I am able to make time to write a couple hours a work day either before or after work. Here recently, I have been dealing with pretty severe symptoms of post-concussive syndrome, and have had to step back from writing to rest and heal. But, I am hoping that 2023 will be a productive year for me. I have several work-in-progresses and several more ideas that I would love to have the time and energy to work on.
Do you plan out your creations? What is your process before you create?
So, for my first twenty books, I was a complete pantser. I was a strong believer in Stephen King's excavating a dinosaur skeleton approach to writing that he describes in "On Writing." Recently, I hired an author coach who challenges me to use a light outline before writing. So, I am learning how to use a light outline to give form to my story before writing it out. I still believe in King's dinosaur approach, the light outlining is just helping me to understand if I am excavating an allosaurus or a utahraptor, or an ankylosaurus. I am discovering that if I plan out my story in too much detail, I am bored with it before I ever begin writing, but I am loving this challenge with my current project.
Do you have a self-care routine or want to have one? What do you do or wish that you did to take care of your mental health?
Right now, I am limiting my screen time to take care of my health. When my mind is clear, I write, exercise, and read to relax and take care of myself. While I am recovering from my most recent concussion, I limit my screen time, limit myself to light excercises, and rest.
What is your favorite creation thus far?
You know, I would have to say that my favorite story thus far is "I Am Master Serv, A Realm of Zhestoviya Story" There is just something about the world of Zhestoviya, the magic system there, and the character Naservin Mastrov that I just love and am looking forward to exploring in future projects.
Do you have a character that is your favorite over others you've written into creation?
Amanda Adams, from the Realm of the Light series. Out of all my characters, she is the one that really shines to me.
What does success look like to you considering your creative passion?
Success to me is the publication of my stories. There is nothing except myself that can prevent me from creating stories and sharing them with the world.
What is something your fans/readers/followers don’t know about you or something unique about yourself?
My long-time followers know that I am hydrophobic, but it is unique.
What advice would you share with new or aspiring authors/singers/artists/etc?
My advice to new or aspiring authors is to read. Read a lot. Read everything, and while you read, learn from the author why this idea worked or did not work.
Where do you get your ideas for world-building?
World-building ideas, you know, I don't know. I have never really thought about where the world-building ideas come from, just that they are there.
What genre do you prefer to read?
Fantasy, and classic literature.
What hobbies do you have?
Read, write, and spend time with the family. That's about it.
Do you have any outside experiences that influenced your work?
When I was in my early twenties, I lived for two years in the Russian Federation. I often use the Russian language as a base for my own language or when I need a name for something special. Also, I am a trained anthropologist and will use my understanding of different cultures in my world-building.
Where can our viewers/readers/listeners find you and your work?
Wordpress: https://jqmserv.wordpress.com
FB Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/James.Quinlan.Meservy/
Amazon Author Link: https://www.amazon.com/author/jamesmeservy