The Damsel in the Library
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
If you could collaborate on a book with any author, who would it be and what's your favorite book they wrote? I'd love to see you and Garth Nix write a fantasy trilogy/series. Thanks!
Michael J. Sullivan
Hey there, thanks for asking. So, I think it's important for people to know where their strengths are and where their weaknesses are and one of my weaknesses is I don't "play well with others." Why? Well, when I'm writing I have my own idea as to where the story is going to go and how the characters will develop. I don't think I can have someone else involved in that. I think I would end up "undoing" any changes they make so it would ultimately be a bad experience for both of us.
Now, that said, there IS quite a bit of collaboration between my wife and myself. But she doesn't do any "writing" - she consults on the story. I think she comes up with great ideas to improve the book, and I take what she says seriously but ultimately it's still me doing the writing. The other aspect about that is we've been together for 40 years and as such we can work in a kindn of "shared understanding" that I don't think would be possible with someone who I've not been with over that long period of time.
So, unfortunately the answer is it will be best for me to keep going the solo route, it's best for me and the readers.
Now, that said, there IS quite a bit of collaboration between my wife and myself. But she doesn't do any "writing" - she consults on the story. I think she comes up with great ideas to improve the book, and I take what she says seriously but ultimately it's still me doing the writing. The other aspect about that is we've been together for 40 years and as such we can work in a kindn of "shared understanding" that I don't think would be possible with someone who I've not been with over that long period of time.
So, unfortunately the answer is it will be best for me to keep going the solo route, it's best for me and the readers.
More Answered Questions
Beth
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
Well I would first like to gush about how much I love your books. I have read every single one. Royce and Hadrian have such a beautiful friendship and I reread the Riyria books every year. My question is - I love the cover art from the original books - The Crown Conspiracy, Avempartha. Nyphron Rising, etc- but I have only read the newer compiled sets (Theft of Swords, etc), is there any differences?
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