Happy Friday everyone!
I had the honor of interviewing the creatively talented Craig Mulhall. Mulhall is the author of The King of Rhye series. There are currently 2 titles released: The King of Rhye and Metropolis.
I have been chatting with Craig on social media about writing life (and how there’s not enough time in the day!). I’ve been following his writing journey and decided it was time to put him in the spotlight. Continue reading for our discussion. Be sure to give him a follow on his social media accounts as well.
What inspired you to write? Has writing always been your dream?
I’ve written intermittently since I was a little kid, always intrigued by the inner workings and magic of storytelling. Writing wasn’t always the dream – I was an artist at school, and went on to study medicine – but a part of me never let it go. I always gravitated back to the written word. Now, it’s the dream. (Life comes full circle! I’ve also been writing since I was a little kid. I’d like to think we have both improved since then. -K.T.)
Other than writing, what forms of art do you enjoy?
I’ve been known to wander galleries as far-flung as the Louvre and the Cairo Museum, hunting famous historical pieces…but music would be my favourite form of artistic expression. I’m always on the listen-out for new sounds, and have my own personal bible of music that speaks to me. Music is also at the heart of my major writing project. (Although we’re inspired by different genres of music, I will say the Carrie Underwood album “Storyteller” has greatly played a role in my Millburrow series. -K.T.)
Who is currently your favorite author?
For a blend of science, history and existential dread, I always loved Michael Crichton, RIP. I’m all over the place with my contemporary reading, and rarely stick to one author. I’ve really enjoyed Tamsyn Muir, Andy Weir and Ian Tregillis.
What is your favorite genre to read?
Fantasy (whether epic or urban/high or low). Historical fiction, adventure, horror, sci-fi and a fun little dose of smut here and there round out my reading.
Do you remember a particular event that sparked your love for literature?
Not precisely. I do recall my first real fantasy read, which undoubtedly triggered my love of the genre and stays with me today as an influence (so perhaps it is the answer). It was Dan Parkinson’s ‘The Gates of Thorbardin’, a DragonLance novel. I was eight.
What is your ideal writing location?
Somewhere with fresh air and natural light, but not shining directly on me. I’m most often at my dining table, but like to take it outside. A quiet cafe is often nice. (I also find myself usually writing at my dining table even though I have a writing desk, it’s not in the best location and I get quiet distracted there now. I also would rather be outside under a tree when physically writing, but enjoy revising at local coffee shops. -K.T.)
Do you have a writing schedule that you follow?
Nope. No…such a thing isn’t possible. I have to snatch hours that would otherwise be dead time. On weekends I might get up around 4.30, while the house is quiet. Or in the evening after 8pm, in a race before my eyes close. It’s erratic and I write slowly, deliberately; hence my drafts take a long time to complete. (I hate to say it, but I also don’t have a writing schedule and have never been able to stick to one because life tends to get in the way)
What do you hope readers take from your work?
Perhaps a shared passion for the way music can inspire other forms of expression (like literature). Maybe a few will even come to appreciate Queen, more than they might have before. I’d be flattered if they loved my characters, or at least found some they could follow or relate to. I want readers to feel something lasting – excitement, sorrow, joy.
What questions do you have for your readers?
What did you feel, when you read my works. What will you remember; what will you take away? Will you share your experience? WILL YOU LEAVE A REVIEW? 😅(I have a similar question or request…PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW IF YOU READ A BOOK BY AN INDIE AUTHOR, k thanks! -K.T.)
How do you promote your work? (What can I do to help?)
I don’t quite suffer the crushing introversion that keeps many authors from promoting, but I do suffer from lack of time. I also live regionally, where it’s hard to easily access big book festivals and events. So I’m mostly online – Facebook and Instagram. Grinding slowly for a following and exposure. I’ve come to know how valuable it is to form indie friendships, and share each other’s work. Happy to be here, K! 😉 (Although Craig isn’t an introvert, I will say that I am indeed cursed with this. It’s been wonderful forming a friendship with him and discussing the ins and outs of being an indie author. -K.T.)
What is your favorite part of your currently published work? Is it a character or a scene?
My favorite part is the integrated music, which is for imminent release on streaming platforms including Spotify. Fat Bottomed Boys have crafted a majestic marvel of an album showcasing songs from my book, ‘Metropolis’. Beyond that, my favorite aspect, strangely perhaps, is how it tugs at my heartstrings. It’s a lot more deeply moving than my debut. I shed many tears in writing it. Fortunately, there is love and joy in equal measure. I also tried my hand at a building romance, and my first crack at tasteful spice. I think it went well.
If you’re looking for a read, please check out the works by Craig Mulhall. They can be found on Amazon. There are links below to his social media accounts as well.
As always, thank you for reading!
Katrina Thornley 
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