What Inspired The Author To Write Onyx And Obsidian?

I've noticed how 'Onyx and Obsidian' reflects their unique blend of interests. The author has a knack for combining elements of fantasy with deeply emotional storytelling. They once mentioned that the initial idea for the book came from a dream about two warriors bound by a cursed gemstone. This dream evolved into a tale of destiny and choice, exploring how people navigate the shadows within themselves.

The author's passion for folklore is evident in the rich world-building. Creatures like the shadow wraiths and the fire sprites were inspired by lesser-known myths they studied during their research. The relationship between the protagonists, with its push-and-pull dynamic, was shaped by the author's observations of real-life partnerships where love and conflict coexist. The setting, a kingdom on the brink of war, mirrors historical periods the author finds fascinating, particularly the tension between tradition and change.

Music also played a role in the creative process. The author often listens to orchestral soundtracks while writing, and the epic, cinematic feel of 'Onyx and Obsidian' reflects that. The climactic battle scene, for instance, was written to the rhythm of a particularly stirring piece. The novel's emotional depth comes from the author's desire to explore what it means to be both broken and whole, a theme that resonates with many readers.

The inspiration behind 'Onyx and Obsidian' is a tapestry of personal experiences and artistic influences. The author has shared that the story's roots lie in their childhood fascination with alchemy and the symbolic meanings of stones. Onyx, representing protection and strength, and obsidian, symbolizing truth and clarity, became the foundation for the novel's central themes. The author's background in anthropology also played a role, as they drew from ancient cultures where these stones held significant power.

Another key inspiration was the author's love for gothic literature. The dark, atmospheric settings and complex character dynamics in 'Onyx and Obsidian' reflect their admiration for classics like 'Jane Eyre' and 'Wuthering Heights'. The protagonist's journey mirrors the author's own struggles with societal expectations and the pursuit of authenticity. They wanted to create a story where the characters' inner battles were as compelling as the external conflicts.

The volcanic landscapes described in the book were inspired by the author's travels to Iceland, where the stark beauty of the terrain left a lasting impression. The idea of a world shaped by fire and ice resonated with them, and they wove it into the narrative to enhance the sense of danger and passion. The romantic subplot, with its themes of sacrifice and redemption, was influenced by the author's belief in love's transformative power.

I've always been fascinated by the creative process behind novels, especially when it comes to fantasy and romance. From what I've gathered, the author of 'Onyx and Obsidian' was deeply inspired by their love for mythology and the duality of human nature. The contrasting elements of light and dark, represented by the gemstones onyx and obsidian, symbolize the internal conflicts of the main characters. The author mentioned in an interview that the idea sparked during a trip to a volcanic region where they observed the raw, natural beauty of obsidian. This, combined with their passion for forbidden love tropes, led to the creation of a world where magic and emotion collide in the most intense ways. The characters' struggles with identity and power were also influenced by the author's own experiences with self-discovery, making the story feel incredibly personal and relatable.