Storm Glass

Interview with Maria V. Snyder

Who are your main influences?

Ever since I can remember, I've loved to read. My mother introduced me to the mystery genre and I quickly went from Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys to Agatha Cristie, Dick Francis, Ed McBain and Robert B. Parker. Dick Francis is my favorite mystery writer, and, I've been told by many that my fast paced, page turning, and cliff hanger chapter endings remind them of Dick Francis' books. I also enjoy writing stories from the first person point of view.

What made you turn to Fantasy?

When I was in high school, my sister, Karen started dating her future husband. Chris introduced me to fantasy and science fiction. He lent me Ursula K. LeGuin's The Lathe of Heaven and, while I still enjoy a good mystery, I've been hooked on fantasy and science fiction ever since.

Where do you do your writing?

In my home office. My husband enjoys woodworking and he has made me a beautiful desk, cabinets, and built-in bookcases all made from cherry wood. The wood is from his father's farm so it has special significance to both of us.

Do you have a particular routine when writing?

Yes. After the kids go to school in the morning, I procrastinate on the computer by answering email and blogging. Then about 10 a.m., I get a fresh cup of tea and write until my kids come home around 3:30 p.m.

What's the most challenging aspect of writing?

All the little details about setting and emotion and description. If I could have it my way - my stories would be all action and dialogue!

If you were to have one special magical power, what would it be?

The ability to heal. I always feel so helpless when someone I love is sick or in pain. And quality of life just isn't good when you're sick. The cliché about health versus prosperity is true for me. I'd rather my family has good health than millions of dollars.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

What spare time?:) I enjoy travelling, playing volleyball and reading. And someday, when I have more time, I hope to get back to playing the cello.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do?

Depends on what "it" is—if I could go back to when I was in high school—I would have focused more on the arts. I would have designed my house a little different, and I would have used ALL that time I had before the kids were born to write, write and write. If I had to write Poison Study again, I really wouldn't change that much. Maybe add in a few more elements so I can use them in the fourth book.