Since her first published novel, Time of the Dark, in 1982, Barbara Hambly has touched most of the bases in genre fiction, including fantasy, science fiction, horror, media tie-ins, graphic novels, screenplays, murder mysteries, and Saturday morning cartoons. Her work has been nominated for numerous Locus Awards, and her novel Those Who Hunt the Night won for Best Horror Novel in 1989. She’s also an avid martial artist. Barbara joins me to talk about marital arts and how they influence her writing, how she plots her work, the joys of research, trying to choose her favorite genre, and more.

Episode breakdown:

00:00 Introduction.

04:20 Learning new skills for writing adventure stories: research hands-on.

08:37 Creativity exists beyond making a living; people pursue passions.

12:21 Encouragement versus discouragement shapes creative confidence in childhood.

16:27 Teased for writing fanfic, Hambly stopped sharing at school.

20:59 Martial arts experience improves fight scenes and knowledge in writing.

24:13 Hands-on weapon training reveals challenges for historical accuracy.

28:37 Martial arts philosophy influences character development and approach to life.

32:08 Aikido teaches problem-solving—step aside from incoming challenges.

36:27 Hambly outlines her novels; prefers clear goals in stories.

40:08 Timelining and detailed research ensure realistic historical fiction.

44:53 Exploring world-building, food, and logistics in fantasy and sci-fi.

48:22 Hambly’s favorite projects: historical fiction, fantasy, and vampire series.

52:02 Writing across genres, balancing commercial market and creative joy.

55:24 Hambly’s creative journey spans genres, driven by passion.

Want more? Here's a handy playlist with all my previous interviews with guests in writing.

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