Author Interview with S & E Black: The Journey Behind Reflections

In this discussion, we sit down with the creative minds behind the acclaimed Chimera Snare series, Shannon and Edward. Known for their ability to weave intricate narratives filled with emotional depth and complex characters, this dynamic duo takes us behind the scenes of their latest installment, Reflections. As they delve into the series’ evolution, we explore the darker themes that emerge, the growth of central relationships, and the expanded mythology that captivates readers. Join us as we gain insight into their writing process, the emotional undercurrents driving their characters, and the music that inspires their storytelling. Get ready to discover what lies ahead for the beloved realms of The Chimera Snare!

But First, Who Are Shannon and Edward?

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• Reflections takes the series in a darker, more mature direction. What made this the right emotional and tonal step after Fragments?

There was a delicate contrast when it came to the light and heavy moments found in “Fragments.” It gradually got darker as we slowly peeled back the curtain to reveal the bigger picture, and we put it on track to end on a note of hopelessness as far as Von is concerned. His life completely falls to pieces by the end. That is, until a hopeful glimmer of light appears. An opportunity to set things right gets presented to him, but it comes with a huge responsibility involving a journey of self-discovery, and the understanding that he is the key to unlocking the secret of saving the realms and everything that he loves. So moving into “Reflections,” we knew we needed to begin putting the whole chaotic mess that was “Fragments” in full context, which starts with unveiling a tale of deep deception, betrayal, and cruelty – the very flashpoints that sparked a brutal chain of events.

• Von and Navaryn’s relationship remains central to the emotional core of the series. How has their bond evolved in your minds from Fragments to Reflections?

Von and Navaryn’s relationship was always meant to be an integral element of the series. In fact, the whole concept surrounding their dynamic was essentially how this project first began. What we love about “Reflections” is how we see their first true encounter that Von very quickly mentioned to Fallon in “Fragments,” so having it written out in the full context shows the first inklings of this very strong tie that they eventually forge. In some ways, being the authors, their dynamic naturally mirrors the one we have. They have honesty, understanding, and true chemistry. And the more we flesh that out as the series unfolds further, you’re going to see them become quite the devoted duo.

• Memory played a major role in Fragments, while Reflections explores duality and transformation. How do you choose the central theme for each book?

Great question, and great job catching onto our thematic approach. We wanted to illustrate the importance of memory in “Fragments,” essentially how powerful, precious, but ultimately fragile memories can be. Memories shape our personalities, which then determines our tendencies and motivations. They are a relatable concept in our characters. And in “Reflections,” we wanted to illustrate a certain relatability to our characters with ourselves. For instance, we explore how our characters battle with both internal and external conflict – that duality that can pull them in one direction or the other. We show what it takes for someone to become a monster, both literally and metaphorically speaking. Transformations that range from the physical to the metaphysical. These all revolve around aspects of conflict, introspection, and growth. Showing contrasts between love and hate, friendship and betrayal, what they are born from, and how one can move and transform into the other, shows a certain fluidity of life we were aiming to illustrate.

• Reflections appears to expand the mythology of The Chimera Snare universe significantly. Which part of the expanded lore were you most excited for readers to finally discover?

Edward: Probably the introduction of this influential family of mystics called the Palovaarjos. There’s quite a bit of the overall story’s moving parts that they get involved in, notably the role they play in some key character origins. We take a deeper dive into some magic systems as well, namely Mass/Material Displacement, and the unique Sangromancy ability.

Shannon: I’m excited for folks to learn where Benson’s hatred for Von truly stems from, and how deeply he’s polluted his familiar bonds under his rule. And how power is a generational pursuit steadily bringing ruin to Celestine.

• Navaryn’s power and inner conflict seem to take on greater importance in Reflections. What can you share about developing her character in this installment?

Without giving away too much, our aim was to show an important similarity that she shares with Von. She’s definitely a mystery within herself, and the reason/answer for that will be revealed in a later volume. But the more she learns about everything surrounding the guardian role she was placed into, the more she finds herself at odds with her own realm. She more or less represents the idea of thinking for one’s self, having the courage to look beyond the veil and disavow a false truth being pulled over your eyes.

• Von’s fractured sense of identity is a major emotional thread. What draws you to characters who must uncover, confront, or survive hidden parts of themselves?

There are many avenues to make a complex character relatable, but we believe that tragedy and survival truly breathe soul into a character. Life, in all aspects, shapes who we become as individuals, how we find our path, how we learn to say ‘enough is enough’ and when to stand up and fight for what we believe in. How to make mistakes and grow, and to see how growth can be inspired through the connections with others. Self-discovery of this nature gives us an opportunity to show our views of what one can accomplish, or even destroy, with strength, passion and hatred, and perhaps, inspire others to find a way to confront and conquer the parts of our own lives that hold them down.

• How did your collaboration change while writing Reflections compared to rewriting Fragments together? Did the process become easier, harder, or simply different?

It definitely became more refined, and we realized just how much our respective writing styles complements the other. There’s a lot of complexity to Reflections, and that required us to really hone in and communicate thoroughly to ensure that we’re both on the same page (pun intended) when it came to crafting a narrative that flowed smoothly and made sense.

• What do you think each of you brings to the series that the other could not create alone?

Shannon: I’d have to say the cinematic descriptions. This is certainly my cup of tea.

Edward: I feel that I bring a fun and effective way to inject distinction between our characters and have their personalities shine through the page.

• The Chimera Snare series has strong musical roots. Were there any specific songs, albums, or artists that shaped the atmosphere of Reflections?

Edward: Definitely. We list all of the bands and artists that inspired us on a dedication page at the beginning of both Fragments and Reflections.

Shannon: And we keep adding more to the list as we go. Reflections had a particular music palate while I wrote, for sure. Lots of post-rock, post-metal, black metal, funeral doom, atmospheric and ambient bands kept me fueled with momentum of crushing despair, but also lent a breath of hope and warmth. The following bands were on frequent rotation: Krohm, Herbst9, Agalloch, Evoken, Morgion, Shape of Despair, Rosetta, Toundra, Towards Darkness, pg.lost, Of the Vine. Of which, Krohm (A World Through Dead Eyes) and Rosetta (A Determinism of Morality and Galilean Satellites) dominated a good chunk, oftentimes staying on repeat through multiple sessions.

Edward: I listened to this avant-garde blackened death metal band from Switzerland called Schammasch quite a bit – primarily their album “Triangle.” Other notable bands and artists I listened to the most are Sylvaine, Wolves In The Throne Room, Herbst9, Evoken, Ulver, and Shape of Despair. The OST to the video game Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice definitely lent a lot of emotive inspiration as well.

• Without spoiling too much, how does Reflections prepare readers for the future of The Chimera Snare series?

Without spoiling things entirely, everyone who has read “Fragments” should know that the history of events that lead up to that point will change. So, we framed “Reflections” as more of a prequel that sets the foundation for the series as a whole, while leaving a glimpse of where we’re going to catch you up to the events immediately leading up to “Fragments.” And history, so to speak, will look very different from that point on. So be ready!