Get ready to learn more about the book A Quantum Singularity in this discussion with sapphic author CA Farlow.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz CA Farlow about A Quantum Singularity, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Time Travel category in the 2024 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write A Quantum Singularity?
This is the third and final book in Arc 1 of The Nexus Series. It completes the challenges which Alex and Lauren face in combating the treasonous actions of the Cador Clan from books 1 and 2 . Alex had been kidnapped and spirited away across the Milky Way galaxy. This book was challenging as the science became focused on the rescue. But the overall tenor of the story was space opera. It was totally a kick to write a space opera saga and fully explore the need science to make it happen.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
I’m still going to say Ice, Alex and Lauren’s white wolf companion is my favorite. She is such a realist and sees all things in black and white. I love her snarky attitude, this allows me to temper a tense moment or to point our the obvious point others are missing in the moment.
What inspired the idea for A Quantum Singularity?
Having Terra Prime and the Comin Homeworld located across the Milky Way from Terra, I had to figure out how to get the protagonists from Terra to Comin as fast as possible and prepare them for the conflict which could arise there. Lauren had to mend her split soul and reunite with Alex or die trying.
What was the biggest challenge writing this book?
As always maintaining my belief that science is for everyone and everyone can understand even the most difficult science when it is placed within an understandable/relatable framework. How do you explain quantum entanglement (used in the communication system)? Piece by piece –
What part of A Quantum Singularity was the most fun to write?
Alex, Sarah and Admiral McLeod recapturing the Black Orchid.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
Lauren plotted their course across the Milky Way to optimize the gravity generated by the singularity at the center of the galaxy – her slingshot maneuver increased the ships’ speed and shortened the travel distance.
How much research did you need to do for A Quantum Singularity?
About 3 months to review the new work on singularities and the information about Sagittarius A* (the supermassive black hole) at the center of the galaxy.
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?
Book 4 – the first book in Arc 2 – will be called Quantum Time. This book will revisit some of the plot threads hinted at in bools 1-3 and explore the nature of time. We will learn time is not linear.
What is your favorite line from your book?
“Bring it on, bitch. I’m not afraid of you!”
What is your writing process like?
Each of the books are based on a science theory, discovery or fact. Once I have this, along with the first sentence of the book and 2 or 3 plot keys, I’m off and writing flows. Until I retire, time is limiting factor and impediment to writing.
Where do you usually write, and what do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
The library – surrounded by all my research materials, with plenty of battery life and high-speed internet.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?
Stephen Hawkings. It amazes me when a luminary in the field is able to write for the general populace. His book a Brief History of Time became an international best seller. And though the ideas presented in the book are mathematically intense, he is able to lead the audience to some amazing insights in not only science but human behavior.
What’s your favorite writing snack or drink?
Earl Grey tea with a spot of half n’ half and honey.
How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
A glass of champagne and then I start on the next one.
Do you have any odd writing quirks?
I only use a purple 0.7mm EnerGel ink pen to edit my draft in hardcopy.
Do you have a pet who helps/hinders your typing?
When I wrote The Nexus Series, Peet my grey tabby cat sat in my lap or on the desk. He would assist with spell check. He loved the screen saver and would tap the touch pad at random when I was looking something up or checking a fact. He passed away after gracing my life with 19.5 years. I find I miss him every time I sit down at my MacBook. He’s immortalized on my website – in his usual listening position – front paws crossed.
What are three words that describe your personality?
Introverted, curious, and thoughtful. All things in nature fascinate me and this often leads to deviations from a planned course. As my partner says “you’re on another off-ramp and missed the point.”
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
Just one more reference check – and – onto the off-ramp I go.
When you’re writing an emotional or difficult scene, how do you set the mood?
I try to write these first in the day – when fresh physically and mentally. But sometimes, characters will take over and drag me along.
What do you do to get inside your character’s heads?
I’d ask ‘How do I get my characters out of my head?’ My characters have my flaws and exhibit my nature. At times, I need to step away and allow them their voice.
If you could be mentored by a famous author (living or not), who would it be?
Katherine Forrest – her prose is so tight and her characters so real. I’d love to co-author a book with her and allow her to set the scene and me to do the science.
Do you feel bad putting your characters through the wringer?
Difficult situations allow a character to succeed or fail. To grow and evolve – its critical they are challenged so the characters become three-dimensional to the reader.
Have you ever hated one of your characters?
I kill off the antagonist in Arc 1 in this book. But with her abilities and psi-energy strength I worry she has survived and will return.
What type of books do you enjoy reading the most?
Science fiction and science fact. When I need a brain-break, I’ve been known to read a British cozy mystery or a bit of fan fiction. I love books with interesting animal characters.
What books did you grow up reading?
Tom Swift adventures, Nancy Drew mysteries, Daddy Longlegs, Superman comics.
What books have you read more than once in your life?
Mists of Avalon. The rich and wonderful female characters who not only drive the story but maintain the dynamics of a situation when the males can’t.
Describe your favorite reading spot.
My stressless recliner
Do you only read books in one genre or do you genre hop?
Genre-hop. I am hooked on audio books now and love finding new narrators who bring a story to life.
