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On The Table Read, “the best book magazine in the UK“, author James Murdo talks about the inspiration behind his new science fiction novel, Echoes Of Time, book 2 in The Tapache’s Promise Trilogy.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed author James Murdo about his life and career, the story of his new book, Echoes Of Time, and his Tapache’s Promise Trilogy.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
I’m a bit of an overthinker and I like to do things myself. Fortunately, these are good things for an author dealing with multiple plotlines. While it’s exciting exploring where a plot can take you, determination is needed to make sure everything makes sense.
When I’m writing, I’m thinking about what “could be”. Mixing facts with fiction is a delicate recipe because I never want a reader to feel hard done by from a plot resolution. In many ways, writing my type of science fiction is like being a far-flung futurist, since I deal with gargantuan machine intelligences and alien civilizations that I want to be realistic.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
Probably when I was quite young, although the ability came a little later. Fortunately, streaming hadn’t kicked off at that point, so my attention span was a little better while I was learning the fundamentals.
When did you take a step to start writing?
Through copious late evenings mixed with willpower. My first novel was the hardest because I had no real idea what I was doing. That said, I also find writing series/trilogies to be very time intensive because the variables I need to keep track of are greater than in my standalones by an order of magnitude.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
18-24 months. In general, I’m getting a little quicker at the writing part (as opposed to the thinking part), although there’s still much to improve upon. I work best when setting myself wordcount deadlines, although that invariably never lasts because it doesn’t account for self-editing and re-writing sections.
How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?
Echoes of Time took about 12-18 months or thereabouts. About 80% thinking, 20% writing. I’d like to be more efficient with the former but it’s probably congenital.
Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write Echoes Of Time?
Echoes of Time is book 2 of the Tapache’s Promise Trilogy, so in writing book 1 (Echoes of Gravity), I was making the commitment. Sometimes it’s difficult to differentiate between the books in my mind, since they’re not discrete stories but all parts of a greater, continuing epic. I’m also as excited as the readers to follow the characters and the plotlines to their conclusions, although unfortunately, I have the spoilers.
What were your biggest challenges with writing Echoes Of Time?
The title took some “time” (ey! Echoes of Time…). Also, wanting to do the characters justice, and having to slow my thoughts so my tappity-fingers could keep up.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
They continue to grow as fully fledged characters as the story progresses. However, I’ve also allowed some secondary and tertiary characters to take a little of the lime-light too!
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
Documentaries, dictators, bastards.
What is the inciting incident of Echoes Of Time?
With Echoes of Time being book 2 of a trilogy, the inciting incident could be all of book 1 (Echoes of Gravity). However, at the beginning of Echoes of Time, there is a “prison break” to start things off.
What is the main conflict of Echoes Of Time?
The struggle for certain characters to forgive themselves for the actions they were almost forced to take, even when those affected have already forgiven them.
Did you plot Echoes Of Time in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
Both, about 50/50. I have the main events at least somewhat known, and various plot points stored & shored up, although the exact ways they come about are more organic.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Echoes Of Time need?
Yes, from my publisher. Echoes of Time needed some editing, but not massively extensive. I’m not sure what’s normal (or if there is a normal with SFF) to be honest.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
Don’t give up and be prepared for the initial rapidity to become sluggish.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you are planning to write?
This will probably come as an absolute shock: Book 3, the 3rd and final book of the Tapache’s Promise Trilogy.
And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment?
I like the universe I’m creating but I wouldn’t say I’m proud, per se.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
Book 1. Echoes of Gravity: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09618T855
Book 2. Echoes of Time: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B6JQ3NV3
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