Enter the Bull’s Burrow follows the Guardians as they try and rescue villagers taken as slaves, and Kar, who must decide where his duty lies. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The set-up for this story was my first book in the trilogy, Eleven Arrows (2020). Kar, the protagonist, was born in a time of great change—the expansion of the Akkadian Empire in 2300 BC. His character journey involves understanding his place in the world. He is conflicted by learned ideals and his own sense of justice. I think this is a universal dilemma that we all face to some degree in our lives. Do you follow the expected path or walk your own way?

How has character development for Kar changed for you through the series?

This is an interesting question because once Kar was created he took on a life of his own. He found a voice in Book 1 and I feel like he told me what he needed to do or say next, especially when he is asked to speak for himself at the Guardian table. Arman, a secondary protagonist in the novel, also became real to me. I feel like I know him and I hope the readers feel this connection with him too.

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

What I enjoyed most was exploring what would happen if all these diverse characters, the Guardians, were grouped for an ultimate journey. Kar was too young to be a part of the conversation in Book 1, Eleven Arrows. I name Enter the Bull’s Burrow the heart of the novel trilogy because the Guardians of the East, all that are left, show themselves for who they truly are. They are flawed but I think there is a beauty in each character’s weakness.

Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself?

Brilliant question. What first springs to mind is the view that even fiction writers only write about personal experience. I could not believe this idea given the concept of my novel trilogy. Over time, however, I started to identify connections. For example, I met the tallest person I’ve ever seen when I was told to go to a particular bar to find him. I transferred this experience in Book 1, Eleven Arrows. Like Kar, I lost my mother when I was just becoming a man. Writing a historical fiction trilogy as a new author is not something I would advise. That said, I am so glad I took this path. I explored the ancient past that was not taught in school. I explored the meaning of life that is still debatable. I learnt more about myself and identified my own strengths and weaknesses. My final book in the trilogy, End of Morrow, has been published. I think I’m still processing the journey. I’ve been humbled by the journey but at the same time I’m extremely proud of my endeavour.

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