In this exclusive interview, we delve into the captivating world of Kolgennon with the talented author who seamlessly weaves history, mythology, and captivating narratives. From an inspiring journey from studying history to serving in the British Army and eventually becoming a published author, to the intricacies of world-building and character development, our conversation provides a fascinating insight into the creative process and inspirations behind the mesmerizing series, A Scattering of Leaves. Discover the rich tapestry of cultures, myths, and complex characters that form the backbone of this enthralling literary universe.
But First, Who is Lewis A. D’Ambra?
Lewis A. D’Ambra is from South Wales and comes from a mixed Welsh and Italian background.
Studying History at university, he went on to join the British army, whilst also studying for a Master’s degree in International Security and Development. Moving on from the army, Lewis moved into the political world working in the UK Parliament. In this role he honed his skills as a writer having to produce everything from reports, policy documents, through to political speeches. Lewis then went to work for various Government bodies in senior communications roles, work that included writing newspaper articles, hosting round-tables and giving presentations to large and diverse audiences.
He created the world of Kolgennon as a way to explore his love of history and mythology and to exercise creativity in a way that cant be found anywhere else.
Lewis A. D’Ambra Books
- Can you tell us about your journey from studying history and serving in the British Army to becoming a published author?
What drew me to studying history was the individual stories that can be found within it that make up the whole human experience, so I think writing my own stories was a natural progression from that fascination. Being in the army, you often find yourself with long periods of downtime while waiting for the next exercise or traveling to your next location. It was during these periods of downtime that I first started to sketch out ideas that eventually led to my first stories and attempts at world-building.
- What inspired you to create the world of Kolgennon, and how do your interests in history and mythology influence your world-building?
It was studying the Iliad and the Odyssey at university that really sparked my interest in mythology. I already had a deep interest in the ancient Mediterranean, finding that world, so different and yet similar to our own, intriguing. It was the opportunity to create my own myths, legends, and histories that led to Kolgennon coming to life. Though my starting point was actually a map I drew one night while bored.
- The Mantle of the Past is the first in a new series titled A Scattering of Leaves. What can readers expect from this series, and how does it expand on the world you’ve already created?
The series aims to flip the hero trope on its head, with Tekolger, the king of the Doldun, cast in the role of the hero, but having already died before the series begins. A Scattering of Leaves instead explores the aftermath of the hero’s journey and the impact his actions have left on a very changed world. The following books in the series will delve deeper into that idea, whilst also revealing some more about the past and what some of the myths and legends may actually be about.
- Can you share your thoughts on how ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern cultures have shaped the civilizations in Kolgennon?
The Xosu were the first culture I created and they are very obviously shaped by the Greeks I think. Similarly, a lot of the aesthetics and cultural attitudes I have taken are taken from Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Persians, and others, but for me, the biggest influence was in the myths and legends and the underlying meanings behind those stories.
- What challenges did you face when weaving together the various mythological and historical elements in your books, and how did you overcome them?
The challenge isn’t in writing the myths and the history themselves, that if anything is the fun part. The difficulty definitely comes in making them consistent and logical and ensuring they are written in a way that they are a believable part of the world, and I think very importantly, matter to the story that is being told.
Part of making them believable is ensuring that they are not too linear and logical, so adding in some inconsistencies was important to show that these are often oral tales that have developed over generations, to hint at the stories being adapted and changed over time. That was quite a challenge.
- How do you approach character development in a world as complex as Kolgennon, where multiple cultures and perspectives interact?
I try to let the character and cultures drive their own development. Having a strong sense of the culture, the character’s background, and motivation is what I spend my time developing and refining. I find that with those in place, the character’s story and the way they would react to events comes naturally and then drives the story forward.
- What has been the most rewarding part of building and writing in the world of Kolgennon, and what has been the most challenging?
I love writing the histories and the myths. Especially weaving myths together that could be taken as simple stories, or moral lessons, or as explanations for natural phenomena. That aspect has always appealed to me.
The most challenging element is definitely writing characters that are very different to me. It was part of my motivation for writing in the first place, to push your level of empathy to understand and sympathize with a radically different perspective. It’s a rewarding exercise, but a huge challenge.
- Can you share any details about your writing process? Do you have any rituals or routines that help you immerse yourself in your world?
I spend a lot of time reading around my subject area and writing lots of notes and odd ideas that come to me throughout the day. I find that this helps me to slowly refine my ideas so that when I come to a writing session I already have a good idea of what I want to create. Often I can put pen to page then and write a first draft very quickly.
- What are your plans for future books in the A Scattering of Leaves series or any other projects you’re working on?
I have made a good start on book two, with a few chapters drafted, but I think it will be a little while yet before I am ready to publish number two. I am also working on a series of novellas set in Kolgennon following a wandering philosopher named Zulosos, the first of which is about two thirds done, so hopefully that will be ready to publish soon.
- What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are interested in creating their own complex worlds and narratives?
Start with the world. A map was my starting point. Once I had that clear, starting to create stories and narratives was easier as I had a visual aid to plan and imagine a story’s locations. I would also have a clear
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