What were your reasons for relaunching the Convergence with new content and cover art rather than The Ascension?

When I first published, I was a novice in the industry, learning through trial and error, and my confidence and skills were still developing. With each book I wrote, not only was I encouraged by positive reviews, but my understanding of my craft and genre grew, along with my authorial voice.

By the time I reached my fourth novel and began working with a new editor, it became clear how much I had evolved as a writer. It was then that I decided to return to the beginning of my series with a fresh perspective and years of experience behind me. After relaunching my first novel, The Ascension, it seemed like a natural next step to do the same with The Convergence, tightening the narrative and clarifying ambiguities.

Ultimately, this revamp is a visual reflection of my development as a writer.

Did you always know the story would be a series?

When I wrote my first book, The Ascension, I had no intention of turning it into a series. However, after spending so much time developing the world and characters, it felt wrong not to continue their journey. I couldn't help but imagine new adventures. Having invested so much time and energy into my creative work, I wanted to see the story through. So, upon completing my first novel, I dove straight into writing the second, then the third, and so on.

How many books do you believe will be in the series?

As I’m writing the fifth novel and planning the sixth, I can envision my series spanning nine to ten books, though it could grow to twelve.

Which character(s) do you feel closest to and why?

I naturally resonate most with my protagonist, Callum Walker, because his journey of belonging and self-acceptance mirrors many of my own struggles and experiences. Given my lifelong experience living with autism and ADHD, I understand what it feels like to search for where you fit and to learn to embrace who you are.

That said, I share a unique connection with all my characters because each of them embodies aspects of my own personality, fears, strengths, and values. In many ways, every character allows me to explore different parts of myself.

Are any of your characters based on people you know?

My characters are all fictional. That said, it’s impossible to live inside a character’s mind and not leave a bit of yourself behind. And while I don’t base anyone directly on real-world people, little pieces sneak in. Sometimes it’s a line I’ve heard, other times it’s a feeling I’ve lived. Looking back, it’s clear some of my struggles, hopes, and sarcasm have bled into my characters. So no, they’re not based on anyone I know… but they’re all a little bit me.

Where did the initial story idea come from?

The inspiration for my series developed from a combination of interests, insights, and quiet ponderings.

I’ve often wondered how much truth there is to those stories we dismiss as fairy tales. If they are devoid of truth, then why have they persisted for so long? It was this line of thinking that led me to imagine a secret world of magic and monsters, hidden from our knowledge. I envisioned the beings therein having periodically crossed over throughout the ages, thus inspiring humanity’s fables and fantasies of old.

What drew you to write fantasy and supernatural?

Growing up, I felt different, somehow out of place in the world—my autism diagnosis later in life eventually gave me that clarity.

I have always gravitated toward superhero and fantasy stories, filled with characters whose abilities likewise set them apart. These early protagonists shared my challenges and insecurities, yet they found ways to navigate their differences and make something good of themselves, often while concealing their secrets and finding their place in the world.

What drew me to these stories was the suggestion that my neurodiversity might not be a flaw. They gave me hope that, if I could only discover my purpose, my personal disparity might become an asset rather than a hindrance.

Writing fantasy allows me to explore identity, power, and self-discovery. It is my sanctuary, where I can imagine a world in which differences aren’t flaws, but strengths waiting to be claimed.

Who are your favorite authors in this genre?

Although I don’t have a single favourite author, I am partial to Stephen King for his ability to think outside the box and tackle topics that others might consider taboo. I also admire J. R. R. Tolkien, whose work epitomizes the hero’s journey and the struggle between good and evil within a vast fantasy world. I’ve recently discovered Brandon Sanderson, Brent Weeks, Joe Abercrombie, and Robin Hobb, all of whom are masters of worldbuilding, immersive storytelling, and deeply real characters.

How has your writing changed since its inception?

Yes, my writing has absolutely evolved over the years. Like most writers, I started with instinct and enthusiasm, but experience has been my greatest teacher. Writing every day—drafting, revising, and sometimes rewriting entire sections—has sharpened my narrative skills and given me a better grasp of pacing, character development, and worldbuilding.

As rewarding as writing is, reading has also played a significant role in my creative evolution. Every book I read is both a pleasure and a quiet apprenticeship in wordsmithing. I pay attention to how other authors build tension, reveal character, and guide the reader through the story. Those observations inevitably influence and refine my own craft, not because I copy them, but because they give me something to compare myself to.

Another major factor has been working with editors and engaging with the writing community. Editor feedback often reveals weaknesses I might never have noticed on my own, helping me see where I need to improve. Likewise, conversations with other writers provide creative insight and encouragement, which I strive to give in return.

Though I’ve come a long way in my writing journey, there is still much to learn. Every book teaches me something new, but only because I approach each project with the goal of becoming a better writer.

Where can readers find you and your books?

My books are available at select Indigo and Chapters locations across Alberta, as well as online through Amazon, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble.

The descriptions and links to my books, social media, and Goodreads can be found on my website.

Website: www.jmshawauthor.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmshaw_author/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmshawauthor

J. M. Shaw is a Canadian author of fantasy fiction who lives in Alberta with her husband and two young children. She’s been writing since childhood, building worlds from raw imagination and quiet observation, but it took years before she found the courage to share them. For Shaw, storytelling has always been more than a passion. It’s a compass. A sanctuary. A way to make sense of the chaos.

In 2019, Shaw was diagnosed with autism and ADHD, a turning point that brought clarity to a lifetime of feeling “too much” or “too different.” Her intense focus, emotional depth, and ability to live inside fictional worlds became not flaws but the superpowers of a neurodivergent mind. These qualities shape her stories, infusing them with realism, heart, and meaning, and giving her the courage to finally share her creative works. Her worlds may be fantastical, but her characters—flawed, searching, and deeply human—resonate on a personal level.

When she’s not writing, Shaw enjoys connecting with nature, curling up with a good book, and dreaming up new worlds. She also finds joy in encouraging young writers to pursue their own passions.

For more information: www.jmshawauthor.com 

 

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