Explore The Themes Of Survival And Trust In Snyder’s Captivating Novels
Maria V. Snyder discusses how her diverse experiences influence her novels, emphasizing character development, themes of perseverance, and the intricate balance of political intrigue and personal growth in her stories.
Maria V. Snyder is a literary force to be reckoned with, seamlessly weaving her diverse life experiences into the rich tapestries of her novels. From her beginnings as a meteorologist to her ventures into glassblowing, Snyder’s unique background infuses her storytelling with authenticity and depth. Her ability to transform seemingly mundane details into vivid, imaginative worlds has captivated readers worldwide. With over two dozen novels and numerous accolades, including a spot on the New York Times bestseller list, Snyder has established herself as a master of her craft. Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of writers at Seton Hill University further cements her legacy as both an inspiring author and a generous mentor. Readers are invited to explore her captivating worlds and learn more about her journey at https://www.MariaVSnyder.com.Maria V. Snyder discusses how her diverse experiences influence her novels, emphasizing character development, themes of perseverance, and the intricate balance of political intrigue and personal growth in her stories.
In this exclusive interview for Reader’s House Magazine, Maria V. Snyder delves into the creative processes behind her beloved works, sharing insights into how her varied experiences shape her storytelling. From the intense heat of a glass kiln to the emotional complexities of her characters, Snyder reveals the meticulous research and personal reflections that breathe life into her narratives. Join us as we explore the themes of survival, trust, and transformation that resonate deeply with her readers, and discover the intricate balance of political intrigue and personal growth in her latest works.
“Maria V. Snyder discusses how her diverse experiences influence her novels, emphasising character development, themes of perseverance, and the intricate balance of political intrigue and personal growth in her stories.”
– EDITOR, READER’S HOUSE
How do your diverse experiences, from meteorology to glassblowing, shape the unique worlds and characters in your novels?
All my experiences in life have been fodder for my imagination. They all collect in my subconscious and then bubble to the surface when I need them. I believe hands on research is the best way to translate an experience to my readers. For example, a glass kiln needs to be around fifteen hundred degrees Celsius to melt glass and melted glass glows a bright orange. But how hot is that and how bright? When I opened the kiln’s door, it was as if a piece of the sun had been shoved inside.
“All my experiences in life have been fodder for my imagination.” –Maria V. Snyder
As a teacher and mentor in Seton Hill University’s MFA program, what key lessons do you emphasize to aspiring writers looking to develop their craft?
In my opinion, characters are the most vital aspects of any story. With my students, I emphasize creating believable and empathetic characters that have complex emotions. New students shy away for adding emotions as they worry their characters will be overly dramatic and be accused of writing purple prose. However, characters need to react both physically and emotionally when confronted with conflict and danger. Also the antagonist needs the same complexity as well.
What themes of survival and personal transformation do you explore through Yelena’s character in _Poison Study_, and how do they resonate with readers today?
In _Poison Study_ the biggest take away is perseverance. To not give up when all seems lost. To keep striving and working to overcome the obstacles in your path. And that a person is not defined by the terrible things they’ve experienced, that with time and effort they can become strong. I know this has resonated with my readers because three of them has reached out to me to say they were contemplating suicide, but Yelena’s journey had given them the strength to keep going. Knowing that is worth more to me than any award, bestseller rank, or amount of money.
“Trusting is hard. Knowing who to trust, even harder.” –Maria V. Snyder
In _Poison Study_, how did you approach the intricacies of trust and betrayal in Yelena’s relationships, especially with her role as a food taster in such a dangerous environment?
In this case, my own personal experience with trust and betrayal was layered into Yelena’s relationships. I had a very close friend betray me when I was in middle school. It’s a hard lesson to recover from and it’s so easy to keep everyone at arms length. As Valek says in _Poison Study_, “Trusting is hard. Knowing who to trust, even harder.” Even with her dangerous job, Yelena does learn to trust again and develops many relationships throughout the series.
How did you decide to explore Valek’s perspective in _The Study of Poisons_, and what unique insights does his character provide into the events of the series?
Valek is my readers’ favorite character. On my Facebook Reading Group, Snyder’s Soulfinders, they encouraged, bribed, and pleaded with me to write more about him. His character growth appears rather static in the first three Study books from Yelena’s POV (_Poison Study_, _Magic Study_, and _Fire Study_). However, he was far from static. Valek keeps his emotions in check, presenting to the world a calm, cool, exterior, when in fact his heart is racing. It was a blast discovering what Valek was up to when not with Yelena in the companion novels, which also include _The Study of Magic_ and _The Study of Fire_ (forthcoming 26 November).
In _The Study of Poisons_, what challenges did you face while balancing the political intrigue with Valek’s personal journey, especially regarding his relationship with Yelena?
Valek’s journey is explored in more detail in the second set of my Study books (_Shadow Study_, _Night Study_, and _Dawn Study_). However, I needed to layer in those threads in the companion novels. At first, his loyalty to the Commander is without doubt. But throughout the story, I show that he has his own opinions and that he isn’t the cold-hearted assassin everyone thinks he is. The challenge was that this needed to be done with care, showing a slow progression. Especially with Yelena. She starts out as a convicted murderer and he’s the chief of security. They are on opposite sides of the law.
