Interview with H.M. Sandlin, Author of A Realm of Dust and Sorrow (Elemental Realms)

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write A Realm of Dust and Sorrow (Elemental Realms)?

A Realm of Dust and Sorrow was inspired partly by world events. The scarcity of food in our own world helped shape the world of Nadaira. And the actions of the main characters show how determination can change the entire fate of a world. Sometimes, it takes a different view to fix a problem. The fantasy world came to me when while I was digging in the dirt, trying to plant a few seeds.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of A Realm of Dust and Sorrow (Elemental Realms), what would they be?

If I had to choose a theme song for Senelow, the main character, I would choose “Til the Light Goes Out” by Lindsey Stirling. I listened to this song while writing the final scene, and it perfectly fits her attitude from her first step away from the safety of her town until the final battle.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genre to read is young adult fantasy. It doesn’t matter if it’s contemporary, urban, epic, or sword and sorcery. I love all fantasy books. I think that’s why I haven’t settled on one specific genre, and I write in multiple fantasy genres.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

My TBR pile has gotten a bit out of control. There are so many books I want to read. Like all of them. At the top of the list are Lightlark and Five Kingdoms: Sky Raiders. I also have Ashlords at the top of the pile, Seraphina, everything by Sarah J. Maas, and The Dark Is Rising Sequence. I know it’s a lot, and that barely scrapes the surface.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene in A Realm of Dust and Sorrow to write has to be when Senelow and her friends save the baby koolax and return it to the other koolaxes. I love creating the different creatures in my books and when they can be saved, it makes my day.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

When I’m writing, my biggest quirk is needing to have music on in the background. Depending on what scene I’m writing depends on what I’m listening to.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I try to live by the philosophy of leave it better than you found it.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Even if something seems too hard, remember you might be the only one who can do it, and if you keep pushing ahead, you’ll succeed. And maybe even save the world.

H.M. Sandlin is the author of the new book A Realm of Dust and Sorrow (Elemental Realms)

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