The Journey of Writing Amalgamation: Harum-Scarum: Insights from Susan Davies
Every writer’s journey is unique, filled with challenges, triumphs, and unexpected twists. For Susan Davies, the creation of Amalgamation: Harum-Scarum was no different. In this blog, we give something a look-see the behind-the-scenes story of how Susan brought this rich, historical fantasy to life.
The Inspiration Behind the Novel
Susan Davies has always had a passion for history and mythology. Growing up, she was surrounded by stories of Irish and Scottish folklore, and these tales deeply influenced her as a writer. But the idea for Amalgamation came during a visit to Scotland, where the rugged landscapes and ancient castles sparked her imagination.
“It was like stepping back in time,” Susan recalls. “I could almost hear the echoes of the past—clansmen fighting for their honor, families torn apart by power struggles. That’s when I knew I had to write a story that captured both the history and the magic of these places.”
Balancing History with Fantasy
One of the biggest challenges for Susan was striking the right balance between historical accuracy and the fantastical elements of her story. She spent months researching the 16th century, from the political climate to the daily lives of people in Scotland and Ireland. But she also wanted to infuse the story with mythical creatures and supernatural occurrences.
“I didn’t want to compromise the historical aspect of the story, but I also didn’t want it to feel like a textbook,” Susan explains. “So, I blended the two in a way that felt natural—mythology became part of the characters’ belief systems, and the magic was woven into the fabric of their world.”
Overcoming Writer’s Block
Like many authors, Susan faced her fair share of writer’s block during the creation of Amalgamation. She admits that there were times when the story felt too big, too overwhelming. “There were moments when I wondered if I could actually finish the book,” she says.
But Susan found that stepping away from the manuscript and immersing herself in nature often helped her find clarity. “Whenever I hit a wall, I’d go for a walk. There’s something about being in the open air that clears my mind and helps me see the story from a new perspective.”
Building a World
World-building is a crucial part of any fantasy novel, and for Susan, it was one of the most enjoyable aspects of writing Amalgamation. She created detailed histories for her characters and their clans, developing unique languages, traditions, and cultures that would enrich the story.
“I wanted readers to feel like they were stepping into a fully realized world,” Susan says. “Every detail, from the food they eat to the way they speak, had to feel authentic.”
Conclusion:
The journey of writing Amalgamation: Harum-Scarum was a labor of love for Susan Davies. Through careful research, creative world-building, and perseverance, she brought this complex and captivating story to life. Readers who pick up her book will not only be transported to a different time and place but will also experience the passion and dedication that went into creating every page.
