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On The Table Read Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, author Umberto Nardolicci shares what inspired him to write his new book, Eye Of The Nomad, and his creative process.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Umberto Nardolicci about his life and career, his creative writing process, and the story of his new book, Eye Of The Nomad.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
My name is Umberto Nardolicci, I am an upstate New York-born computer engineer, businessman, and disabled veteran with a passion for writing and storytelling.
After launching and, subsequently selling a very successful tech start-up, I relocated to Myrtle Beach, SC where I work with the cutting edge tech company, GigaTECH, and serve as an Executive Consultant and Board Member of multiple organizations. In 2022, I embarked on a new adventure as a historical fiction author that would allow my passion for storytelling, the martial arts, and my fellow veterans to fuel my passion project, the War of Fear trilogy.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
As a young sailor in the US Navy, I developed a passion for martial arts that led me to delve deeper into the Eastern philosophies behind the principles. During this time, in an obscure article, I came across the details of Yasotay, who was credited with being the first to train warriors utilizing psychological warfare, or psyops, to decimate their enemies. Yasotay was integral to building Genghis Khans empire and his league of special forces, the Mangoday.
Over time, I continued my studies but found little more on the history of Yasotay, which left much to my imagination, inspiring the War of Fear trilogy. Eye of the Nomad is the first book of the series that brings to life the character of Yasotay, a testament to over thirty years of study, reflection, and creative speculation.
When did you take a step to start writing?
In 2022, nearly 40 years after my initial foray into the study of martial arts, life afforded me the time to pick up the pen and tell the version of Yasotay’s story that had been building in my mind for decades. Thus began my journey to weave the tales of honor, sacrifice, and resilience that would bring my characters’ journey to life.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
In 2022, I fully committed to the writing process, and now Eye of the Nomad was released on 11/11/24.
What were your biggest challenges with writing Eye Of The Nomad?
Ensuring the accurate and authentic portrayal of 12th-century Mongolian and Chinese culture while developing a distinct voice for each character that would be relatable and entertaining in a way that would truly transport the readers to the time and place of the story.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
Yasotay,The Man Behind the Monster, formed the Mangoday who were arguably the first ‘Special Forces’ unit in history and critical to the success of Genghis Khan building his empire.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
Genghis Khan himself, who is introduced as Temujin in Eye of the Nomad.
What is the inciting incident of Eye Of The Nomad?
A chance encounter brought Yasotay and Temujin together while the latter was being held prisoner. Locked in a cangue, Temujin was badly hurt and managed to escape, leading him to once again cross Yasotay’s path. Faced with a choice between helping Temujin secure his freedom and save his life or returning him to his captors, Yasotay makes a life altering decision that would set him on a new journey deeply entrenched in the nomadic world.
What is the main conflict of Eye Of The Nomad?
This historical fiction book transforms one of history’s greatest villains, Genghis Khan, into a likable antagonist. It takes the reader on a journey as he and Yasotay establish a friendship, and their lives become forever intertwined. Eventually, they find themselves in conflict with one another as Yasotay begins to regret the unimaginable outcome of the empire they built taking control.
Did you plot Eye Of The Nomad in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
Eye of the Nomad is the first book in a trilogy series thus much thought was given to plotting the series in its entirety to ensure the storyline would build dramatically
with each book. The nature of writing historical fiction also lends itself to being more structured as I wanted to preserve as much of the events and culture as possible, requiring extensive research. Once the outline was in place, my writing process became free to creatively imagine the personalities of each character and the details of each setting in a less rigid format.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Eye Of The Nomad need?
I worked directly with several editors, including Baasanjav Terbish, a researcher of Mongolia and Inner Asia Studies at University of Cambridge.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
Once you start writing, keep the momentum going! Set deadlines for each chapter or section you aim to complete, and always write with passion and purpose.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
I am currently working on the next two books in the War of Fear trilogy, book two: Moan of the Mountain and book three: Voice of the Atoned.
And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
I am incredibly proud and overjoyed to bring this story to life! I dedicate the War of Fear trilogy as a tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of all patriots who stand strong in the face of unimaginable challenges.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3Z7nb0c
Kindle: https://amzn.to/48Ty9JW
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3Cqb5WY
Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4hSmvTz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waroffear/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/waroffeartrilogy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/umberto-nardolicci/
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