Darran asked S.K. Levy:

When you researched your books, how do you decide upon the characters? Do they come from external source; for instance real life people or mythology, or do you create them from your own mind? Or is it a mix of both?

S.K. Levy Hi Darren, thanks so much for the question! I don’t base any characters on people from my life, but I did borrow quite a few names. Some characteristics from friends and family most probably arose as traits in characters, but all were unintentional. In regards to mythology, I didn’t research anything other than First Nation Australian beliefs and spirituality, as the Reigntime creatures were supposed to have been alive before any humans walked the earth. My thought process was that they would have “influenced” the first humans they interacted with, so I researched the various ontologies in First Nation spirituality so that my Reigntime creatures’ values reflected those of our First People. Other than that, the most research I undertook was for my language. I wanted to create something new and different, and give a fresh take on fantasy, so instead of writing about fae/elves/wizards/vampires, I invented a new type of creature, all of which came from my imagination. I always wanted Reigntime creatures to value nature, animals, and the earth, and it tied in so well with First Nation Australians belief system and their connection to nature. I like to explain the way that I thought of my story like this: I opened a door in my mind that I hadn't realised was there, and stumbled into my imaginary world where almost all of the characters and plot already existed. I just had to figure out how to create a new supernatural creature! I hope that answered your question!

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