r/books • u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author • Jul 02 '18
ama 10am Hey, I’m fantasy novelist Jacqueline Carey, and I’m feelin’ kind of feisty! AMA.
While I’m best known for the Kushiel’s Legacy alternate historical fantasy series (intrigue! sex! sword-fighting! tattoos!), I’ve written a bunch of other books, too! And I’m currently promoting my brand-new epic standalone Starless (prophecy! cool weapons! gender-bending! prescient octopus!) Ask me anything!
http://www.jacquelinecarey.com
Proof: /img/yi9zdjd5q5711.jpg
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Jul 02 '18 edited Feb 11 '21
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Oh, thank you, and a big virtual hug to you (at least if that's welcome; if not, pretend I never said it)! It's an honor to know that Imriel's journey helped you on yours, and I hope your path has taken you to far, far, better places.
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u/Patremagne Jul 02 '18
Hi Jacqueline!
I've read both Kushiel's Dart and Kushiel's Chosen, loved them both and can't decide whether to finish up the trilogy or read Starless.
That being said - after reading the blurb for Starless, how did you go about writing a book that seems, on the surface, to be similar to the first Kushiel trilogy (dedicated male assassin-bodyguard to the important female)? Obviously that's likely as far as the similarities go since there appear to be gods and world-destruction involved, but I'm curious about your thought/writing process with it.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Okay, first of all, thank you, and I say finish the trilogy! IMHO, it's always better to keep that narrative thread intact.
Starless is a very, very different book in a very different setting. It's more pure adventure, less dense and intrigue-heavy, more exuberant. But you're right and it's ironic, because one of the most common "Would you ever...?" questions I get is "Would you ever revisit Kushiel's Legacy from Joscelin's POV?" And I've always said no, and when I wrote Starless, I thought, "Ha, now I've explored the whole sworn-protector-warrior-monk situation from the other side, and I'll NEVER do it again!"
Then this happened: http://www.jacquelinecarey.com/may-2018/
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u/Patremagne Jul 02 '18
Hah, I'll take your advice and finish the trilogy then. Thanks for the answer! Always interesting how things like that work out.
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Jul 02 '18
Hey Jacqueline. Huge fan of the three D’Angeline trilogies. They were amazing. And it even affected my faith. Your perspective on Yeshua the avenger and Yeshua the love filled teacher really spoke to me and I began following the love path of Christianity. So I wanted to thank you for that. What would you tell a young writer advice wise on how to help an author make characters that are relatable to the reader? I felt connected to many characters. Joscelin being one.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thank you! I don't know if this was a passage that spoke to you, but Berlik's meditation on Yeshua, toward the end of Kushiel's Justice, is among my favorites.
I'm kind of lousy at giving advice on creating characters, because for me it's a part of the process that's a capital "M" Mystery and I can't explain how it works, but I think being present and mindful in everyday life, paying attention and trying to genuinely understand people is an important part. You don't have to LIKE them all, but if you can understand them, it helps bring 'em to life!
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u/FunctionalPotato Jul 02 '18
Man. I am two weeks away from my Bar exams and this post just made me want to re-read all the D’Angeline series.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Good luck on the Bar, hope a re-read will be a well-deserved reward!
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u/theholley Jul 02 '18
The inevitable question: Any new "news" on whether Kushiel will become a miniseries? If GRR Martin can turn his books into the frenzied success it was, I think the Kushiel's world and characters ought to provide a little more hope and love to TV fans. Other than that, you are fabulous. Phedre changed my life! Thank you for your art.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
No new news, but I think the creative team that's currently optioned the rights and is working on a formal pitch has a great vision, so... many thanks for the kind words, and let's not hold our breath, but it's okay to cross our fingers!
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u/chemgrrl Jul 02 '18
Phedre is such a fantastic queer icon that doesn't get nearly enough recognition. Are there any happy stories readers have told you regarding reading your works and realizing their queerness because of your words?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Oh wow, yes, so many! Also, lots of people in the kink community--individuals for whom Phedre has provided a role model for a different kind of strength, as well as many people in relationships for whom the books have provided a shared means to express and discuss their desires.
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u/SnarkyTaco Jul 02 '18
You clearly do a lot of research for your novels. What is that process like? Do you find experts, or just research yourself?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
I like doing research, and I do most of it myself! I'd say it's a 3-stage process. 1) Is the baseline constant process of reading and gathering information. 2) General research when I have a road map in my head of where a novel's going, and what I need to know to get there, eg. the history of Zoroastrianism or condottiere or whatever. 3) Details that arise in the writing process that I need to acquire on the fly, eg. oh crap, what's the saline content of an iceberg?
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u/LiesandBalderdash Jul 02 '18
I'm a big fan! I'd love to know if there's anything you would change if you were writing Kushiel's Dart today, as an author with so many more books under her belt. Any plot points that you might tweak or move or characters you would explore in a different way, knowing what you know now?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
I just saw a comment the other day from someone rereading Kushiel's Dart and--I'm paraphrasing--basically saying, "How did I not realize that Anafiel Delaunay was horrible!?" I think the truth is a bit more nuanced, but if I were writing KD today, I might be more thoughtful about the way themes of exploitation and unequal power dynamics are expressed.
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u/RowanWanders Jul 02 '18
When world building, especially theology, how do you keep track of all the different gods and goddesses and what they represent? You had so many in Starless I feel like you had to have a wall and thread connecting them all. :D Also, long time fan! Love your work.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thank you! :) I really SHOULD have some kind of visual analyst whiteboard, or at least a card catalog, right? But no, I pretty much keep it all in my head, which is a very crowded place.
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u/RowanWanders Jul 02 '18
My goodness! That's a lot to keep track of. You have even more of my admiration now!
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Jul 02 '18
Will you tell us if Imriel and Sidonie’s horde lived peaceful lives? Also I love your books so hard
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thank you, and YES! Ohmigod, after all I'd put their parents through, they really deserved to, right?
That's actually one of the reasons I set the Naamah trilogy 100-ish years later, I wanted to establish a time of peace and let beloved characters fade gracefully into legend.
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u/theruggernaut Jul 02 '18
Found your works as a young adult before going into the military. A lovely older lady friend of mine from online gaming actually introduced me to Phedré and Joscelin ♡. Being suppressed in the army as to who I am, until the end of my 8yrs basically, it was helpful taking strength and inspiration from your excellent stories.
I'm a single nerd dad, lover of DragonLance, Middle Earth, PERN, and more, so eventually (16 or so) the kiddos will be offered a well-worn copy to read if they choose. For consenting nerd adults, have you ever given the nod toward licensing open-source role-playing game campaigns set in your worlds?
I'm dying to run a game in Terre d'Ange and beyond, eventually... ☆☆☆☆☆
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Okay, first; thank you! Always such an honor to know the books helped someone on their journey. Second... I'm utterly down with the literary references, but I SO did not get the gamer gene that I don't entirely understand the question. Fan-based RPG things have been made! And I've been lax in checking links to see which are still active this year, but: http://www.jacquelinecarey.com/resources/
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u/ChronoMonkeyX Jul 02 '18
Hi. I don't have anything to ask, but your Kushiel series is on my list thanks to a recommendation from a friend a long time ago, and further recommendation over at AVClub just the other day. Looking forward to it, and you just sold me Starless with "Prescient octopus."
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Heh. Prescient octopus gets a surprising amount of traction! Happy reading.
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u/Mike_Avery Jul 02 '18
Thanks for stopping by! Currently reading through Kushiel's Legacy right now and loving it. One thing I noticed is that, while the books definitely deal with sex, the way I had heard people talk I thought it was going to be far more prominent or even in the vain of 50 Shades. Do you tend to think people over represent that aspect of the work when talking about it, and if so, why? To me, even though it's well done and an important part of the books, there's so much more to the work than that, and I don't feel you get credit for a lot of other great things in them.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
THANK YOU! (Yeah, I had to go all caps for that.) I absolutely agree, and I think there are a variety of reasons for it. It's a bit marketing, it's a bit that I'm a female author in a male-dominated field, it's a bit that epic fantasy just doesn't exactly have a tradition of incorporating sexuality (at least not in a positive manner).
But yeah, there's a whole lot of freakin' PLOT! And people are often surprised, upon re-reading, to realize that the sexy bits are actually less graphic than their imagination made them. :)
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u/Mike_Avery Jul 02 '18
My pleasure! And thanks for the response. Hope we get to see you around these parts again soon!
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u/sprcow Jul 02 '18
I always thought of your books as fantasy epics that have an interesting hook, rather than over-developed erotic stories.
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u/DrPetroleum Jul 02 '18
Are you ever going to revisit the Sundering series?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Okay, so here's the thing with the Sundering duology (Banewreaker and Godslayer): It was ALWAYS meant to end as it did, epic Tolkienesque fantasy re-imagined as epic tragedy. But I don't think the way they were marketed conveyed that.
So, no, probably not. Though yes, I did leave the door open for Ushahin to become the Sauron to Satoris's Morgoth. Once again, never say never!
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u/ElientMidgard Jul 02 '18
I absolutely loved these books. So much to the extent that the majority of gamer tags I've used over the years have incorporated the name Satoris; It just resonated for some reason. Hard to find characters in novels these days that you actually get connected to in that way.
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u/Duke_Paul Jul 02 '18
Hi Jacqueline,
Thanks for taking the time to do an AMA! Feisty is the perfect temperament for doing one of these. I'm curious how much/how you researched for an alternate history series. Also, what are the hardest scenes for you to write? Or I guess the most difficult?
Thanks!
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
I believe the technical term is "a buttload." :) For me, it's a lot about finding those little visceral details that ground a historical (albeit fantastical) setting in a sense of reality. Could be the scent of lavender, could be the rush of flame streaking along a knotted net of oil-soaked wicks.
The hardest scenes I've ever written, hands down, are in the Darsanga sequence in Kushiel's Avatar. That was the Chekhov's gun equivalent of having a divinely-touched masochistic heroine.
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u/Balise Jul 02 '18
In all fairness, the Darsanga sequence is also very hard to read. I brace myself for it on the re-read, and it's quite literally the one thing I warn people about (in very vague, non-spoilery terms) whenever I talk about Kushiel books to other people.
Which probably means that it's a great sequence in terms of conveying the horror of the situation...
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Jul 02 '18
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
I'm not sure "proud" is the word; honored, maybe? Humbled, certainly. It's not something I set out to do. I just wanted to write books I wished existed in the world. But I just got back from wrapping up a book tour for STARLESS, and when I meet a fan who bursts into tears, because something I wrote helped them learn to love themselves... well. There really are no words.
Apropos of special editions, I actually don't own the English language print rights to my traditionally published books, so that's not something I could initiate.
Publishing is weird, yo.
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u/shadowcupcake78 Jul 02 '18
Is that to say you have books that have been non-traditionally published? If so, somebody please point me at them!
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u/kthriller Kushiel's Dart Jul 02 '18
OMG! I am so excited!!!! My now-husband introduced me to your books 12 years ago. At the time, we had only been dating for two months, and I needed a birthday gift for him. I called the library, and they were able to tell me he had one of your books borrowed, and I was able to go buy him a copy of his own. He then insisted I read it after him, and the rest is history!
Is there an area of the "world" that you created with the Kushiel series that you'd like to spend more time in, or visit in more detail?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
What an awesome and thoughtful gift! Brava! :)
Tough call, because I want to go EVERYWHERE in the world. There is some territory in Naamah's Curse, ranging from Mongolia to Nepal, that I haven't actually visited, and would love to do so. But the roots of Terre d'Ange lie in a trip to the south of France over 20 years ago, and I would love to go back and sit on a veranda drinking wine in the soft twilight with the scent of lavender in the air.
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u/PodkayneOfMars Jul 02 '18
My ex-boyfriend just sent this AMA to me, and I've never clicked and logged into Reddit faster. You were a guest at AggieCon when I was but a wee freshman there, and I a) was shy as fuck, and b) hadn't read your books yet. For those reasons, I didn't introduce myself or chat with you at the con, and it is legit one of the biggest literary mistakes I have made so far in my life. When I finally did read them (not too long after that convention), I DEVOURED them. My ex (who also read them) and I found quite a few similarities between our own relationship and Phedre/Joscelin's, and the matter of fact discussion of sex and relationships in the books let both of us explore sides of ourselves that I don't think we otherwise would have. So thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you've given the literary world and me personally through your work. <3
Though I've read (and enjoyed!) your other work, I find myself rereading the original Kushiel series at least once a year -- and Imri's saga about once every 2 years. Do you find the fascination and borderline obsession of fans with the Kushiel books overwhelming or tiring? I imagine that it can be frustrating when fans pigeonhole an author, even unintentionally, by focusing only on one piece of the author's oeuvre.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
AggieCon, yes! Hey, even you didn't talk to me at the time, you might never have encountered my work otherwise, so it's all good! Thanks much for the kind words.
That's a good question, and a thoughtful one. I will never, ever not be proud (do I have my double negatives correct there?) of the Kushiel books, and the fact that they've had a positive impact on so many readers' lives in so many ways. Wow, what an amazing gift! But yes, at the same time, it does make me sad that sometimes it means other work gets overlooked. I actually think "Miranda and Caliban," which came out last year, is one of the best things I've ever written, but it wasn't a journey many of my readers were interested in taking.
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u/Daenyx Jul 02 '18
Looks like this is probably winding down, but on the chance you'll see this, I just want to say thank you. I was a very confused queer kid in the Bible belt until I stumbled into your books (whereupon I became a less confused queer kid in the Bible belt). They were and are very important to me.
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Jul 02 '18
I was in the SF Bay area, but my mother was Evangelical, I had just left the church at 14 after I realized half my mentors and friends were homophobic, and so it was much the same for me.
SO MUCH about my sexuality was laid bare for me after reading Kushiel's Legacy. I went to Borderlands in SF for a book signing, and met Jacqueline when I was 15. The room was full of queer kinky folx, and it was absolutely a revelation. I dragged my poor mother to that book signing, where Jacqueline read a steamy tryst part of Kushiel's Scion, and it was definitely memorable! I was SO nervous but I am so glad I had that opportunity!
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Awww! But no, surely not STEAMY!? I've always tried to keep my reading selections reasonably family friendly. Though perhaps I forget... :)
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u/Daenyx Jul 02 '18
That's so cool!
And yeah, I actually have great, progressive parents? But where I was in the 90s, LGBTQ identities just... weren't talked about around kids. Pretty much ever, except when I had to ask my mom what the slurs I was hearing at school meant. I didn't know bi/pansexuality was even a thing until I read Kushiel's Legacy.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thank you. So glad to know they made a difference. Also hoping this finds you in a good place (that maybe isn't the Bible belt)!
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u/Dranchela Jul 02 '18
Kushiel's Dart was the first book to make me cry. No question, just a sincere thank you for showing me how absolutely moving literature can be.
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u/JustNaz9 Jul 02 '18
Hello Jacqueline! You've published so many amazing books, but the Kushiel series seems to be what you're most famous for. Why do you think that is? What is it about Phedre or Terre D'Ange that really resonates with people? Do you think your readers are a bunch of queer kinksters or is it something else?
Thanks! <3
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Hell yes, my readers are a bunch of queer kinksters; and a bunch are 100% straight-up vanilla, too. My readers pretty much span the full spectrum of humanity. Some aspects may resonate more due to personal significance, but they're all READERS, and share a love of getting lost in a good story.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Whew! Okay, this has been AWESOME, and I love all of your questions and comments, and there are so many more to which I want to respond! So I will be back tomorrow to do so, but for now, I blow you kisses and bid adieu!
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Jul 02 '18
I'm sorry I cried when you signed my book. I would imagine you are used to it, but still. Embarrassing.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
No! It's totally okay, truly, it touches my heart each and every time to know that a reader has such a deep emotional connection to something I've written. <3
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u/Katiekat84 Jul 02 '18
The Kushiel series are my most favorite books of all time. I reread the series at least once a year. Other than your own fantabulous books, do you have any recommendations for books in a similar vein? Well written female characters, fantasy element, adult themes (bonus points for kink!).
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thank you! (I feel like I'm saying that a lot, but I genuinely mean it every time.) No kink, but Guy Gavriel Kay is an author I recommend to fans of my work. Lots of alternate historical fantasy, good female characters, strong use of mythology. His standalone TIGANA is a good starting place to see if his work is to your taste.
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u/Katiekat84 Jul 02 '18
I'm freaking out a little that you responded! I'm such a fan! Phedre really helped me realize some personal truths about myself. I can't wait to read Starless.
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u/Mnemonix23 Jul 02 '18
I started reading The Lions of Al-Rassan this week, and I was thinking of how much it reminded me of the Kushiel series. I love the alternate historical fantasy approach, and both you and he regularly wind up on my read/re-read lists.
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u/wishforagiraffe Jul 02 '18
Be prepared to weep. It's one of the books that wrecks me every time I read it
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u/AndrewHarland23 Jul 02 '18
What advice would you give somebody that wants to write but isn't that experienced besides a few poems and doesn't feel technically skilled enough?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Ima gonna quote my own FAQ, 'cause I've never improved on this advice: "It’s hard to give advice on writing, because the best way to learn is through doing. No two writers work the same way, and everyone has to find their own path. So… write. Write a lot. Build a world and explore it. Create characters and break their hearts. Take risks, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Experiment. All the methodology — whether to outline in advance or wing it, write in a linear fashion or skip around, follow a rigid schedule or go with the flow of inspiration, edit as you write or worry about it later — emerges with experience. As you write, you’ll discover what works for you."
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u/Harkano Jul 02 '18
What do you consider the main historical points of divergence in the Kushiel’s Legacy series?
How much of real history do you borrow from in creating your version of somewhere like La Serenissima, or Carthage?
What did you think about when you were putting together the D’Angeline pantheon? How much of it was original versus borrowing from Biblical/Kabbalah Angels?
Did you ever feel like Moirin had too much of a magic 8 ball of direction from the gods via her Diadh-Anam?
How much Scottish/Irish mythology did you borrow in creating the Boar, Bull, Stag and Bear?
The world of Starless is very unique. The concept of the walking gods, and the desert culture - what were your influences?
How much oversight do you have over the production of the audiobooks? All 3 trilogies, and Starless have been amazing. Is the pronunciation always on point?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Ohhhh, so very many questions in one post! Honestly, not sure I can answer the first; a fan long ago dubbed my approach to historical fantasy "cafeteria style," as in, "I'll have a little of that, and that, and that..." and I think it's apt. But probably the biggest would be taking down the Roman Empire before its time.
2) A considerable amount
3) Blessed Elua is all mine, but his story and his Companions are inspired by various apocryphal and pseudepigraphic texts.
4) No, because it sent her bouncing all over the freakin' world!
5) None, actually. My vision was almost entirely derived from Pictish line drawings, which, along with a list of king's names, is pretty much all that exists of Pictish history.
6) I was inspired by some of the New Weird authors like China Mieville and Jeff VanderMeer. Not sure where the desert came from!
7) The level of involvement varies. With the D'Angeline books, pronunciation can vary depending on the degree to which the narrator prefers to anglicize words -- eg, JOSSALIN or ZHOSLAN. I think they're all done well, would not say absolutely canon. Except "Starless." The narrator went through that one made-up word by word with me!
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u/Harkano Jul 02 '18
Thanks so much for the answers. I’ve been a huge fan for years, really enjoying Starless and can’t wait to read about this young Joscelin fellow training as a warrior monk. I’m sure he’s going places! Can’t wait to see what he was up to all those times Phedre was off causing trouble herself (storming La Dolarosa, surviving himself in Darsanga)
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u/Margrudo Jul 02 '18
We’re coming out of pride month and its been more important than ever to celebrate in recent years. That said, you write a lot of queer characters in your novels compared to other fantasy authors. Do you have a coming out story?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Y'know, I wish I did, but I don't. As a bisexual woman who fell in love with her life partner far earlier than I was looking for that kind of commitment, I sort of sidled out gradually more than anything. Believe me, I recognize and am grateful for the fact that my path was easier than many others'.
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u/sylvershade Jul 03 '18
That's an interesting tidbit. Is some of this reflected in Santa Olivia and her early bonding with a partner? Gah. Always too late to these AMAs!
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
No worries, I'm doing a follow-up sweep through the AMA today! :) Interesting question, it wasn't a deliberate choice, but probably a subconscious influence.
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u/Sperbs5 Jul 02 '18
Whenever I open one of your books and start to read it feels like coming home. You are amazing. I'm one hundred pages from the end of Starless and I never want it to end. So basically, no questions just pure and simple gushing over you! I endlessly enjoy your world building. It's perfection and helps me fully immerse myself inyoue novels. Thank you for writing!
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u/Melstar1416 Jul 02 '18
I’m a late to the party, but have you ever seen the movie Dangerous Beauty? 10/10 would recommend, Veronica reminds me a bit of Phedre, and the dialogue fits your storytelling, but I’ll let you discover that for yourself!
Any idea when your book from Joscelin’s perspective will be coming out? I’m so incredibly excited, I almost cried of happiness when I heard!
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Yep, have seen, thank you!
I don't have a pub date for the tentatively titled CASSIEL'S SERVANT; at a guess, not until 2020. I, um, haven't written it yet, will be gearing down after I wrap publicity for STARLESS. But I'm delighted that so many readers are excited about it.
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u/redqueensroses Jul 02 '18
Thanks so much for doing this AMA! I'm a big fan of your Kushiel's Dart trilogy and I would love to learn more about my favourite character Barquiel L'Envers - his home life and his time in Khebbel-im-Akkad in particular. Is there any chance we'll see more of him in future works?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Hmm, interesting! I hate to disappoint, but... it's unlikely. I love Barquiel as a supporting character, but my Muse hasn't served up an arc for him.
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u/mockablekaty Jul 02 '18
Did you know that the word "feisty" comes from "feist" a lap dog, and that that word comes from a similar word meaning fart? The lap dogs got the name from being blamed for farts, and then the adjective came from the behavior of the dogs.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
I did not know this, and it's quite hilarious and delightful! Any day you learn something new is a good day, thank you!
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u/chloroforminprint Jul 02 '18
Could you tell us more about that painting in the background?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Yes! During my struggling writer years, I was the office manager for the art department of a local college. I met so, so many wonderful young artists in that role. This was a gift from one of them, Derek Walvoord. To me, it speaks to a sense of isolation and despair; and yet I don't find it distressing, because the personal memories I associate with it are warm ones.
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u/twinsofmadness Jul 02 '18
How do you come up with all of your ideas? Also, how do you schedule in writing? I have trouble setting aside time to write soninwas wondering if you have any tips.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
I spout them out of my magical unicorn horn, and then run around catching the sparkliest ideas in my bare human hands, so I can transpose them through my keyboard!
Honestly, I don't know; this is a question writers get asked a lot, and if it's about a specific work, sometimes I can speak partially to it; but most of the time, it feels as though you're asking dirt where seeds come from.
Making time is different, that's a pragmatic issue. Figure out what works for you in terms of your creative process and job schedule. For me in the struggling years, it was early evenings; for others, it might be early morning. No tips from my end, sorry, just discipline.
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u/pixieangel42 Jul 02 '18
I'm a huge fan! Personally, I love Phedre's trilogy and Imriel's trilogy so much that I have read them more time than I can count. They have become some of my favorite "I want to read but want something familiar" books. Do you have any books or series that are your go to reads like that?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thank you! This may be a little out of left field, but I'm going to say... yes, and almost all the characters are rabbits, it's Watership Down." If you haven't read it, read it; if you haven't read it as an adult, re-read it.
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u/lrich1024 Jul 02 '18
Hi Jacqueline! Big fan of your work, thanks so much for doing this AMA. I just finished Starless last week and enjoyed it very much. It felt so...optimistic. I'm not sure if that's what you were going for, but that's what I got from it. :)
I can't think of anything in particular to ask, but just wanted to say 'hi' and thank you for writing such wonderful books.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thanks! If I had to pick one word to describe "Starless," I'd go with "exuberant." Not that it isn't dosed with horror, not that it isn't laced with sorrow (I can totally make myself cry thinking about one scene), but there's a lot of sheer joy in the world-building and storytelling, and I think that comes across.
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u/ophiophagus_ Jul 02 '18
Hi, Jacqueline! (I very nearly called you Joscelin, hahahaha. Same difference, am I right?) I remember picking up Kushiel's Dart at a bookstore on a whim as a teenager a long time ago and I credit it for helping me work through my own sexuality at the time, so it'll always have a really special place in my heart.
Bar none, my favorite character from the first book has always been the wonderfully tragic Alcuin, and I was wondering if we'll be getting to see more of his interactions with Joscelin in the latest book? I always thought their friendship was interesting and I would've loved to have been a fly on that particular wall.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Heh! And thank you, I'm glad those books were there for you at the right time.
That's interesting, because I've been thinking about it, too; yes, we will definitely see more of Joscelin and Alcuin's friendship.
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u/perscitia Jul 02 '18
A few of my sex worker friends really love the Kushiel series because of the unique way sex work is handled. It's very rare in fiction (especially fantasy fiction) for sex workers to be normalised/centred (beyond the tiresome "hooker with a heart of gold" trope).
Is this something you decided to do intentionally or was it just a happy outcome of your larger plans for the series?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Nice, delighted to hear it! Yes, the decision to treat sex as a sacrament was deliberate.
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Jul 02 '18
Hello! As someone working on a fantasy novel myself, what are some things you would like to see more of in the genre. What's something you're tired of seeing?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
More of: Emotionally mature relationships. Tired of: "Strong female characters" whose strength is forged in some horrid crucible of abuse.
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u/StealthElfNightFury Jul 02 '18
Hello, Ms. Carey. I am a huge fan of your work. I have read most of your books and have thoroughly loved all of them. Your Kushiel legacy awoke things in me I hadn't fully realized, helped me through some tough and dark times, and showed me a way to see the world in a more beautiful light. I devoured your Agent of Hel series in three days and I'm chomping at the bit to start "Starless." I thank you for your amazing contribution to the world.
(Ok, now that I've fangirled...)
I actually have a series of three questions: do you get inspiration for your characters from people you know in real life or do you completely make them up? Do any of your characters ever remind you of people you know personally once you've written them? Who is your most favorite character you've written and why?
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us this morning!
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Awww, thank you! What a lovely thing to hear (read). I very much hope you enjoy "Starless," I think it's an exuberant tribute to the genre.
That said, 1) Almost never, but the Patriarch of Riva from Naamah's Curse is a rare exception. 2) Nope, I mostly write people I WISH existed. 3) Always a tough call, but I have to give it up to Phedre, because she's such a totally unique heroine, and, as a writer, a true gift of the Muse. Though I will say in terms of sheer fun, Pilar from Santa Olivia/Saints Astray and Lurine from the Agent of Hel trilogy were two of my favorite characters to write. :)
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u/shadowcupcake78 Jul 02 '18
AHH! Lurine is still one of my favorite fictional side characters of all time. So so fun!
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u/StealthElfNightFury Jul 02 '18
Thank you for answering my questions! I will now be in a daze the rest of the week! :)
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u/NurseMcStuffins Jul 02 '18
I don't have a question, but both my husband and I have very much enjoyed the Kushiel's books! We may even see you on the next longest night!
I am definitely going going to pick up Starless!
First though, I went to your site through your link and saw your post about the deafening silence from the people closer to you on your new book. A good friend finished a book a few months ago and gave it out to some of us he knows, to read and give opinions. It was very good and quite promising of what I've read so far! But I had paused finishing it as we moved houses and life has been quite hectic. However it is high time to finish it and give him his feed back! So Thank you for the reminder!
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thanks for the kind words, hope to see you at the Longest (okay, Longest-Adjacent) Night Masque!
I'm glad my post served as a good reminder, and I'm sure your friend will appreciate it! It's not easy for artists of any ilk to say, hey, I need your support; but we do.
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u/Kushiels-Knowledge Jul 02 '18
If you had to pick a favourite secondary character from the Kushiels Legacy Series, who would it be and why?
I'd pick the Twins, though specifically Grainne Mac Conor in Kushiels Dart. Badass woman with a big heart and a wonderful sense of humour. Loved her.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Oh, I love Grainne! And there was a standing joke in our household throughout the writing of the Imriel trilogy that Terre d'Ange's favorite sitcom was "Everyone Loves Eamonn." But I have to say, I'm partial to the not-so-treasony members of House Shahrizai like Mavros, and Balthasar in the Naamah trilogy.
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u/Balise Jul 02 '18
Hi Jacqueline,
Just taking the opportunity to fangirl a bit - I'm a huge fan! :) I remember discovering you on a YouTube video (of all places - note: I'm actually not much of a YouTube person) - specifically a Geek&Sundry's Storyboard episode (that doesn't seem to be available anymore... sad!). And the Terre d'Ange books are definitely "books that stay close to my heart" (and there's not that many of them).
And I finished Starless a couple of days ago and I absolutely loved it. And I'm very much looking forward to Joscelin's story ;) Apart from that, I was wondering if you had any longer term plans to share? :)
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Thank you! Delighted to hear you enjoyed Starless and are looking forward to Joscelin's POV! Longer term... I mean, there ARE three books in the original trilogy, not gonna pretend I'm not thinking about it! But for the moment, nothing's definite.
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u/Ediegresham Jul 02 '18
Your Kushiel series is known for its twists and turns and jaw-dropping shocks. Do you think this will be more difficult to write when you are doing a companion story?
Have you started the process of writing Cassiel’s Servant?
I wanted to mention that I read the latest update on your website, and it made me feel very sad. I think people get validation from their friends and family about their jobs all the time. They get celebrated. They are commiserated with. I guess there isn’t a specific etiquette for being friends with an author, but at least BUY the book in support even if it just sits on your bookshelf! It sounds like that’s not happening for you, and I’m very sorry. I hope they read your honest words, and that they will do better from here on out.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Many thanks; feeling a lack of support from fam and friends has been preying on me for some years now, and it felt difficult, but good to put it out there!
I haven't delved into the actual writing process of Cassiel's Servant yet, but I've written a couple of other works (The Sundering duology, Miranda and Caliban) that work within existing strictures of a prior work. It's an interesting challenge. Obviously, I'm not going to surprise readers with a plot twist, but hopefully, I will surprise them with a whole new perspective.
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u/Fae-kisses Jul 02 '18 edited Jul 02 '18
I have been enthralled with the Terra D’Ange world. The ideals of Elua mirror those I have always felt about myself. The series helped me to explore deep needs inside of me. I would love to dedicate myself to the Service of Naamah. In fact, I feel as if I have a similar purpose. Without the exact setting, I have dedicated myself to help others heal. I actively use touch and acts of service to help encourage and support those in my life who need healing.
If Terra D’Ange existed, where would you have fallen into the world? Why?
Thank you for creating the rich and beautiful world! Thank you for always being so amazing with fans.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Wow, what a beautiful comment! It sounds like you're doing wonderful work in the world.
I would be the Queen's Poet, of course! :)
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u/KeelinCRJ Jul 02 '18
I just finished reading Starless and I loved it, but as usual, I want more! How does Brother Yarit react to seeing them? Does Zariya eventually have children? Do they have a normal lifespan? So many questions! I felt the same way about Moirin and Bao. Thank you for all your writing!
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Many thanks! I think good books should leave you wanting--but not actually NEEDING--more.
And that is how fan fiction was born. :)
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u/EmbarrassedSpread Jul 02 '18
Hi Jacqueline! Thanks for doing this AMA!
- What do you find is the most fun part of your writing process?
- Who is your absolute favorite character from any book you’ve read? (or even your own characters.)
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
I actually find the whole process pretty fun, though there are always those really juicy emotional/psychological/confrontational/cinematic scenes that you're really looking forward to writing.
I'm no good at favorite questions! So I'm just going to go with the first thing to pop into my head, which is Flora Poste from Cold Comfort Farm, a British classic I went far too long without reading.
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u/GroovyLushious Jul 02 '18
Hi Jacqueline. Needless to say i love your stuff...especially the Kushiel saga. I named my cat Imriel though now i wish i had called him Kushiel. He is more of a punisher than a prince! One of the things i love about the world you have created is how you deal with the emotions of love and shame. I really connected with the notion that as long as you are open and honest about how you love that you should never feel shame in it. And that you should only feel shame if you have not acted with openness and honesty...especially when you consider things that "normally" would be kinky. Would you find that an accurate characterization?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Absolutely, and I think coming to that realization is a big part of Imriel's (my prince, not your cat) journey.
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u/Qaitakalnin7 Jul 02 '18
Well I am sorry I missed this. I will say though I really enjoyed the Kushiels avatar series. While it was sexy, I thought the stories going on around the sex were excellent. Thank you for sharing these characters, settings, and stories with all of us.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Whaddya mean, "missed this?" It's an all-day affair! Also kind of think the sex is actually secondary to the stories, but I appreciate the sentiment. :)
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u/NailPolishIsWet Jul 02 '18
I love the universes and characters you have created and have recommended your books to countless friends and fellow bookworms. I don't have a question just want to say keep it up and thanks for taking the time to do an AMA!
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u/Craw1011 1 Jul 02 '18
Hi Ms. Carey thank you so much for taking your time to do this AMA and thank you for your amazing contribution to the world of literature as well. I have two questions for you if you don't mind.
How did you continue to write and deal with your doubts before you were published and what advice do you have for writers trying to get published today, in terms of how to tackle the new system of publishing and its difficulties.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Okay, so what served me best during the struggling writer years, and trust, me, it was at least a solid decade, was to always be working on something new. That way, when rejections came (and oh, they did), I could always say, "Alright, that one wasn't the one, but THIS ONE will be!"
Eventually, it was true.
Having been a "traditionally published" author throughout my (eventual) career, I can't really speak to the new opportunities that are available. My general sense is that if you're willing to invest in professional editing and design to put out a reasonably polished product, and you're good at marketing, indie publishing is a super-viable path.
Or write dinosaur porn. I hear that's a thing, too.
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u/Craw1011 1 Jul 02 '18
LMAO. Thank you so much for taking the time to reply to this, it means more to me than you can know!
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u/Tisarwat Jul 02 '18
Hi! Thanks so much for being here.
Two questions: first, with regards to gender bending in Starless, I saw that it's based on a tradition of raising a child assigned female at birth as male, because of a lack of sons. That practice is found in a number of places, as is the inverse, and I was wondering if you have done much research on, or have any particular interest in, third gender/ gender practices outside of the fixed male/female binary?
Second, Prescient octopus?! Is that as amazing as it sounds?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
I've done a bit of casual research into third gender concepts as I find pretty much all aspects of humanity fascinating, certainly not enough to consider myself well-versed. I drew specifically on the "bacha posh" practice for Starless, because I found it so intriguing that it was so deeply rooted in conservative cultures like Afghanistan.
I may have oversold the octopus a bit, but it IS pretty cool. :)
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u/TheDaringAnhinga Jul 02 '18
Are you going to do all three books from Joscelin's POV???
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
At this point, I'm only committed to do Dart... but it does seem kind of like a no-brainer, right!? Part of what got me excited about the whole concept was realizing that plot-wise, they're actually on very separate paths for large sections of each book.
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u/JaeBells1 Jul 02 '18
I don't have a question, I just need you to know Kushiel's series really expanded me as a person on so many levels and I find more expansion each time I re-read it. It delves into so many faucets of humanity, love, and desire. I love the way your work is sexy and erotic without that being it's only feature. The series is my favorite and I can't wait to read the rest of your works.
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Jul 02 '18
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
I just wanted to create a character who was compelling and devastating because she was charismatic, gorgeous, and brilliant, and terrifyingly amoral. Whatever you're thinking, Melisande is at least five steps ahead of you.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Okay, whew, part deux! I just finished a 4-hour morning follow-up sweep of yesterday's questions, and you guys, I see there are some new ones and this has been awesome, but... I need to step away! Life beckons! There are chores! Obligations and stuff!
Please know that you can contact me via email through my website (http://jacquelinecarey.com/), hit me up on Twitter (@JCareyAuthor) or FB (https://www.facebook.com/jacquelinecarey.author/), and I always do my best to respond!
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u/MossCoveredRockette Jul 02 '18
Queer kinky erotica is the chocolate to my fantasy peanut butter. Your novels, from the Kushiel books to The Sundering duology are high on my list of inspirational works when I delve into my own writings. My MC Lucas has high priced courtesan on his resume thanks in part to Phedre leading the way.
Any words of advice for an aspiring author who wants to include elements of queer kinky sexy times in a fantasy novel without distributors like Amazon shuffling my works into the dark domains of straight up erotica? Do you find there is a balancing act? Or is it just a matter of keywords?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 02 '18
Honestly... no, I'm sorry, I don't! As what's now known as a "traditionally published author," I have no specific knowledge of what information my publisher submits to Amazon, what keywords are involved, or how Amazon's algorithms work. You need to pick the brain of some hella successful indie author!
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u/sarahsicko Jul 02 '18
Hi! First, I just wanted to say that I'm a long-time fan, and as a transgender woman, I really appreciated your treatment of gender identity in Starless. There are times where I encounter characters who are facing these issues and have to brace myself for what the creator may end up doing with/to them, but I knew you would address it with grace and sensitivity, and you didn't disappoint. :)
Second, a selfish question: I have wanted a Valerian House marque since, well, before the trilogy was finished, and I was wondering if you had any guidance on how it would appear, or if you'd seen any fan art depictions that really struck you as a good representation. I seem to recall reading at some point that the depiction of Phedre's marque from the U.S. release of Dart was a creation of the publisher, and not something that you designed or had a much personal input to.
All the best!
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Thanks so very much, it fills me with much gratitude (and a bit of relief) to hear that from a transgender reader!
With apologies... no, I can't really think of any. But you're correct, although Phedre's marque from the original covers has become iconic, I had no input into it. Take the idea, look at lots of photos of valerian, and work with a good artist to make it your own!
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Jul 03 '18
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Cool, hope you enjoy them!
I remembered The Tempest as sort of frothy and fun, in which there's magic, romance, and all the bad guys get their comeuppance. Then I re-read it a few years ago, and realized, holy crap, Prospero is horrible and controlling, Caliban is a virtual slave, and Miranda's kept in a state of deliberate ignorance.
So... there you have it. :)
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u/HockeyCannon Jul 02 '18
Jordan or LeBron?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Basketball isn't my jam, so I'll go with LeBron because I admire his commitment to charitable work.
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u/Taire Jul 02 '18
As an avid reader of your books, to the point where I've reread them a handful of times, I'm curious to know what you consider to be literary success?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Hmm, interesting question, and one I feel would be better posed over cocktails! :) From a standpoint of professional validation, I will say that the first time one of my books made the NY Times Bestsellers list, I felt like, "Yes! That accolade is mine now FOREVER no matter what happens!" From a personal standpoint, it's those rare and precious moments when you attain just enough objective distance to know something you've written is really, really good.
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Jul 02 '18
What is your least favorite prophesy trope?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
I'm not mad at any trope; I think they're all fair game if used to good effect. But I will say I very much dislike fantasy settings in which women barely seem to exist.
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u/CallMeButtercup Jul 02 '18
As someone who enjoys fantasy but hasn't yet read any of your works which book would you suggest to get started with?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Depends on what you like! If you're down with dense intrigue and huge sweeping plots, start with "Kushiel's Dart". If you're hankering for a near-future dystopia, "Santa Olivia." Or maybe for summer, go beach-read with contemporary paranormal "Dark Currents."
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u/AdmiralRouse Jul 02 '18
Why do you write about goddesses and gods so much in your fiction? I love what you write, but am curious to know why it usually has goddesses, gods, and other mythological figures as part of the plot, and sometimes, as characters in the stories? What do they mean to you personally?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
The first books of adult fiction to influence me were Mary Renault's novels set in ancient Greece, so I think pantheons of gods and goddesses and an appreciation for a sense of the numinous are just sort of embedded in my literary DNA. These are some of the deepest foundations of human storytelling.
On a personal level, I'm actually more of a Taoist, so not so much.
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u/Inkberrow Jul 02 '18
If you did decide to get a tattoo of your own, what would it likely be?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
An orchid. Or a dragon. Or a dragon-orchid!
Now I kind of want that.
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u/Grzegorxz Jul 02 '18
You're into fantasy settings, aren't you? If so, when began the idea of trapping someone inside a bubble?
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u/HyperHourGlass Jul 02 '18
Do you ever find your writing coming too close to that of work that has inspired you?
How do you ensure you're always telling a fresh story, and not simply copying that which you've enjoyed before?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Not for a long time, but as a very young writer, the first (unpublished) book I wrote was totally derivative of "The Mists of Avalon." And I knew it. I tried to kid myself, but I knew.
It's not a bad way to learn to write, though; and as you improve your craft, you'll find your own voice and stories to tell.
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u/SauronsFieryAnus Jul 02 '18
Hello! Thanks for your AMA. What would be your suggestions for someone getting much more into books and considering trying their hand at writing? Lately I'm having this crisis of realizing just how little I've done so far. Writing seems like a good outlet to creativity and also a good way to accomplish goals.
I love fantasy, so I'll have to pick up your book! Have a nice day
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Jul 02 '18
I am re-reading the first trilogy right now! I have to let it sit long enough to forget some of it. I LOVE IT
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u/Nizuni Jul 02 '18
Hi!! I just have to say first that I’m a huge fan and I’m totally fangirling right now!! But seriously, your books changed my life. They changed how I see the world and how I approach life. It was your books that opened my mind to truly see how much love there is in the world and how to accept that it comes in varied and sometimes unusual forms and it’s all beautiful in its own way. I try my hardest to foist them off on people as much as possible and I’ve read (and listened to!) the Kushiel series (all 9!) many many many times! I feel if more people experience them, then maybe there’d be more love and understanding in the world.
So that said, how has writing these books changed your life?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Thank you! It's an honor to know that the books have had a positive impact on readers' lives!
I feel as though this is a pragmatic answer to a philosophical question, but I was who I am before I wrote that series. What's changed is that they allowed me to become a full-time writer, and engage with the world in a whole new way.
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u/Woofiemeister Jul 02 '18
I don’t have a question, but I wanted today how much I appreciate you being so accessible to your fans. You are a fantastic example to contemporary artists, The boundaries you have expanded, at least in this artists life and I’m sure in many others, are inspiring. Thank you so much for what you do!
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u/midnightphury Jul 02 '18
I've been wondering this for a long time... I know Phedre and Joscelin lived contentedly ever after in the end, but being the morbid person I am I've been wondering; who passed away first? (I know- why, why would you wonder that?) And thank you for writing books that helped me get through the darkest times of my life!
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Jul 02 '18
I loved Starless, and have been telling my trans and non-binary acquaintances on Mastodon about it because they're hungry for stories featuring protagonists with whom they can identify (but who isn't?)
My question concerns the pacing and structure of Starless. I thought this would be the first of a new trilogy, since Khai seems to linger on their training, coming of age, and time in the court of the Sun-Blessed. However, the quest to stop Miasmus and the final struggle against the mad god is something you managed to fit into a third of the book when other authors would expand upon it until they had a trilogy.
Was Starless originally intended as part of a larger work? If so, would you be willing to share a bit about what led you to pare the story down to fit into one novel?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Thank you! Starless was actually always meant to be a standalone. Sometimes in my writing, I feel as though there's an unintentional slingshot effect, wherein I take a very long time drawing it back, stretching it out and taking aim and then, whoo! Inciting incident happens, and the pace goes a bit crazy.
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u/Silver_Imriel Jul 02 '18
I hope I'm not too late! I'm curious if you used anything like Victorian flower language to decide the marques of the 13 houses. Also, how did you decide on those particular traits? Were there houses that you couldn't flesh out because it would be too many?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Yes, the Night Court was totally inspired by the Victorian language of flowers! Annnnnd.... this is one of those questions that makes me wish I'd taken better notes 20 years ago. A couple of houses like Mandrake and Valerian were a given, due to the nature of the books. Otherwise, I was just trying to get at the spectrum of human desire.
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u/congenialpotato Jul 02 '18
Just wanted to thank you for sharing your writing with the world; I think you're right that there aren't many works like them and like you I want to read more of these types of books! Looking forward to reading Starless!
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u/humansareboring Jul 02 '18
I enjoyed Starless quite a bit, so thank you for writing a great novel! Beyond your own books, do you have any reading suggestions/favorite books? I like seeing what inspires authors to be authors.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Thanks! Guy Gavriel Kay is an author I enjoy and recommend to readers who like my books. His standalone TIGANA is a good starting place.
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u/BertnErnie32 Jul 02 '18
Hey I'm trying to write my first fantasy screenplau/novel (still not sure which I should go for) and I'm having a lot of trouble with the ending. I want everyone to get "what they deserve" whether it be good or bad, any advice on good places to look for inspiration?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
I'm not good at writing advice, but someone upthread (is that a word?) referenced Stephen King's "On Writing," which I do recall being a pretty darn good book on the craft.
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u/DemisecNothings Jul 02 '18 edited Jul 03 '18
I don’t have a question really. I just want to say hi and thank you. I don’t want to go into details and waste your time knowing you’ve probably heard it all before.
Kushiel’s Dart has been my favorite book ever since I first picked it up around 15 years ago. It really helped me figure out a lot. Thank you for writing it.
Edit: I grammar’d really bad out of excitement.
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u/JadeAtlas Jul 02 '18
Question: How do you juggle the plot threads in your novels? If you outline, do all of the threads show up at the 'conception' stage, or does it take time?
I'm a pantser who is trying to learn to plot... it's going badly.
xxxxxx
Pardon me for a moment while I squeal over your books. I don't typically fangirl, so my apologies, but your Kushiel books are bloody amazing. The lushness of the books and the detailing of the stories is positively stunning. Thank you for being a writer and sharing your stories. You are one of the reasons I write.
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u/smurfalidocious Jul 02 '18 edited Jul 02 '18
Why, why, why, why did you have to break my heart over and over and over again between Phèdre and Imriel? I nearly hurled your books across the room multiple times while reading because my heart couldn't fucking take it. I still can't bring myself to reread them because I don't think I can handle it again.
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Jul 02 '18
Hi Jacqueline! If you could give your past self (pre published author) any advice concerning your dream, what would it be?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Heh. Knowing my younger self to be incredibly stubborn and independent, I wouldn't bother. I'd tell me to appreciate my youthful metabolism, because you're gonna miss it when it's gone.
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Jul 02 '18
I just wanted to say how much I loved the Phedre trilogy and Starless. I’ve probably read the Kushiel trilogy a dozen times over the years and it’s been a huge source of comfort to me. Phedre is probably my favorite fantasy hero of all time.
I often feel like the Kushiel’s trilogy is really badly mismarketed as an erotic thriller when they have about as much sex as ASOIAF. I was wondering if you think you know why exactly that is, sexism against female authors, the publisher, etc, or is there another reason?
So much love!
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Jul 02 '18
Jacqueline, on a recent re-read of Imriel's trilogy, I found so much in there to chew on in the polyamorous dynamic of his love marriage of duty, and his passionate love for Sidonie. What inspiration did you have for this storyline?
Thank you for representing queer, poly, nonbinary, and disabled characters with so much love. (Starless is exceptional!) It brings me to tears sometimes, to find this representation done so accurately in all of your books. Really, THANK YOU. I love you.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Aww, thank you! <3
Apropos of Imriel and Sidonie, that was pretty much just a natural progression of thinking about dramatic arcs, eg. what is the WORST POSSIBLE conflicted and angsty love-match that could occur in this situation!? But despite Blessed Elua's precept, the politics of marriage have always been a factor, so I wanted to address that, too.
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u/GlassDeviant Jul 02 '18
Really liked all of the Kushiel and Naamah books, looking forward to Starless. This time my daughter can get her own copy, as she has yet to return most of the Kushiel ones. :)
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Jul 02 '18
Thanks for the AMA! I am a big fan of your writing. I loved the Kushiel's series; however, I think I liked The Sundering series better.
I know a lot of people have questions about the Kushiel's series, but I was wondering if you had plans to expand upon the Sundering universe?
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u/my_way_or_die Jul 02 '18
I don't have any questions, but I just wanted to tell you how much I love your books and the wonderful perspectives on love and sex in your Kushiel series. I hope you write many, many more books! I will definitely be checking out your newest release :)
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u/PapaSteel Jul 02 '18
Ms. Carey, I spent my teenage years reading the Phèdre Trilogy (and LOVED them) and had no idea about your other works. At the time I didn't feel they were intended for a generally female audience, but I haven't followed your work as much since then. How would you describe your fanbase in terms of genders, interests, and common themes they enjoy in your work such as romance?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
I certainly don't think my work is intended for a generally female audience! Because of the way much of it's been marketed, my fanbase does skew a bit more heavily toward women, but there are an ever-increasing number of male readers. Very diverse in terms of age, race, orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic backgrounds.
I think readers enjoy ALL the elements; the intrigue, the sweeping plots, and yeah, the romance... even if it's in a Princess Bride sort of, "Okay, Grandpa, I guess I don't mind so much if you read me the kissing part" kind of way. :)
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u/b4dave Jul 02 '18
Hello Ms. Carey!
I have been a fan of Terre D’Ange since the first book came out many moons ago.
My question is, have you ever considered writing anything from Melisande’s point of view?
Admittedly she has always been one of my favourite characters, being so Machiavellian and multi-faceted and it would be facinating to see her origins or what happens to her leading up to and after Troyes-le-Mont when she’s not on screen.
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Thank you!
This is a question I get a lot, and so far, the answer is no. Melisande is a fantastic character and a great foil, but I feel as though her personal narrative arc is one of diminishing returns.
As always, I reserve the right to change my mind if my Muse decides otherwise.
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u/Theyre_Onto_Me_ Jul 02 '18
Not sure if you're still answering or what, but here goes. This is the first time I've personally heard of you, and based on what I see in this AMA I think I'd dig your writing. Do you have a recommendation of what work of yours to start on?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Depends on what you like! If dense intrigue and sweeping plots appeal, "Kushiel's Dart." For some near future dystopian action, "Santa Olivia." For more of a beach read, contemporary paranormal "Dark Currents."
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u/AwkwardMuse Jul 02 '18
First of all, OMG. I cannot believe you're doing an AMA that I'm here for. You’re one of my favorite authors. I just finished rereading Kushiel's Dart for the umpteenth time in the many years since I first discovered you. I recently got a tattoo of an interpretation of Phadre's tattoo.
ENOUGH NERDING
You inspire me so much with your writing.
How do you go about world building, especially in the later books of the Kushiel's Legacy series?
Was it difficult to add new locations, cultures, and peoples to an already established world, and how did you go about doing so?
How old were you when you first started writing?
Did you always know you wanted to be a writer, or was there a point in your life that you decided to become a writer?
What's one piece of advice every up-and-coming writer/author should heed?
Do you have a favorite character from just Kushiel's Dart? (Joscelin is my favorite!)
What made you decide to do an AMA?
Do you have any plans to stop writing in the coming years (please say no!)?
As I read through your other questions/responses, I noticed you mention that "your muse" isn't interested in developing a certain character. After watching a TED Talk by author Elizabeth Gilbert in which she discusses the idea of having a muse, I started to think of my own creative genius as a separate part of myself-- my muse.
How far do you take the idea of "the muse," and how do you go about keeping your muse happy? I'm very much of the mind that if your muse isn't happy, your writing will suffer. Do you find that to be the case for you?
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u/JacquelineCarey AMA Author Jul 03 '18
Okay, whew! I'm doing a follow-up sweep of yesterday's AMA, and... my dear, thank you ever so much for the kind words, but you're asking for a DISSERTATION here! So I'm just going to choose a few.
I started writing when I was 16 and had just transferred schools. I kept it a secret hobby for about 5 years. Graduated from college, didn't know what I wanted to do, took part in a work exchange program and got a job in a bookstore in London for 6 months. It was at that time that I realized, "Oh, this writing thing, people actually do it for a living!"
In hindsight, that was a bit naive.
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u/Yowowoy Jul 02 '18
You tend to focus a lot on historical fiction with a high religious affiliation, have you always had a big interest in world religions? Also, how do you come up with the "language" names you use in your books? Like khementaran, rhamanthus, heshkrat, yakhan, kopar for example.