Exploration of the Genre: Rationale Behind Crafting Science Fiction and Fantasy Novels
In an exciting turn of events, Kate M. Colby's debut novel, "The Cogsmith's Daughter" (Desertera #1), will be taught in a university classroom for the second semester. This marks a significant milestone for the acclaimed author, whose writing often delves into complex systems of magic or religion, and offers the opportunity to engineer new worlds, weave intricate narratives, and create inhuman characters.
Colby's love for Science Fiction and Fantasy can be traced back to her upbringing. Dressing as Xena the Warrior Princess for Halloween, getting a Supernatural tattoo, and listening to Buffy musical episode soundtracks are just a few examples of her enduring affection for these genres.
Colby, who graduated summa cum laude from Baker University with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, Creative Writing, and Sociology, finds Sci-Fi and Fantasy genres to be the ultimate escape. Her novels, brimming with apocalyptic scenarios, steampunk gadgets, and fantastical lands populated by mythical creatures, reflect this passion.
"The Cogsmith's Daughter" is no exception. Set in a world where magic and technology coexist, the novel follows the journey of a young woman as she navigates a society on the brink of collapse. The book, which has been lauded for its intricate world-building and compelling characters, is a testament to Colby's ability to create captivating narratives within these genres.
Colby's writing is not limited by the rules of the universe she creates. In Sci-Fi and Fantasy, the only rules are the ones the author creates for themselves. This freedom allows Colby to explore unique and imaginative concepts, such as lovable or hateable inhuman characters, and apocalyptic scenarios that push the boundaries of conventional storytelling.
Despite her success in the Science Fiction and Fantasy realm, Colby is a writer of multi-genre fiction and creative nonfiction. She contributes guest posts about writing craft and is often tempted to slap fangs on her brooding heartthrob when considering writing a romance novel. However, contemporary romance, historical fiction, and crime novels are not worth pursuing or do not excite her as much as Sci-Fi and Fantasy.
For Colby, having her book read alongside legends in the genre is an incredible honour. As "The Cogsmith's Daughter" continues to captivate readers, it's clear that her love for these genres will continue to shape her writing for years to come.
Colby's novels, including "The Cogsmith's Daughter," are a blend of science fiction and fantasy, showcasing her lifelong passion for these genres. Her love for entreating new worlds and crafting imaginative characters, as seen in her acclaimed writing, is a testament to her enduring affection for sci-fi and fantasy.
