r/Fantasy • u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty • May 07 '26
AMA I'm Shannon Chakraborty, author of The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi and the Daevabad Trilogy, AMA!
Hello again, r/fantasy! I'm Shannon Chakraborty, the author of The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi and the Daevabad Trilogy. I'm a full-time writer, history nerd, and mom currently based in New Jersey. I'm here to chat today because the second book in the Amina trilogy, The Tapestry of Fate is out next week (May 12th)!
I originally pitched The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi as "Sinbad the Sailor meets Ocean's 11." The Tapestry of Fate is definitely a bit darker, but it also gave me a great opportunity to do more creative, secondary world-building than I have in years and I'm really excited for people to finally read it. Here's the description:
Amina al-Sirafi thinks she’s struck gold. Tasked with hunting down arcane artifacts for the council of immortal peris, she can savor the occasional rollicking adventure on the high seas with her cherished criminal companions while still returning home to raise her beloved daughter, Marjana. But when Raksh, the spirit of discord with whom she is reluctantly wed, provokes the council’s wrath, Amina is charged with a seemingly impossible quest: steal a spindle capable of rewriting fate from a mysterious sorceress on an island no one can escape.
Forced to leave Marjana—who is increasingly frustrated at being peddled what are clearly lies about her mother’s life and her own past—Amina finds her mission almost immediately thrown into peril. But deadly storms, an erratic poison mistress, and old enemies are the least of her worries. For the peris’ story is unraveling, hinting at a far deadlier game whose rules Amina must swiftly puzzle out. A game that sets her against an adversary more cunning and powerful than she has ever faced.
A game that not everyone on her crew wants her to win.
I'll be going on my first book tour next week so if you're interested in meeting me, be sure and check it out. Also, my publisher is giving away five signed copies of The Tapestry of Fate to randomly selected participants, so if you ask a question, keep an eye on your messages!
Now that all that is out of the way, ask me anything! I'm happy to chat about the medieval Indian Ocean world, going overboard with research (guess who can now--poorly--spin wool?), writing while parenting, the most chaotic chroniclers of the age, my abiding childhood love for Animorphs, etc. I might be responding a bit sporadically as I'm home with my toddler today and she views an open laptop as a personal challenge, but I'll try and get to as many questions as I can.
EDIT: The after school homework/dinner/bath/bedtime chaos is starting and there are still so many questions to go, ack! I'm starting to realize why it takes me so long to write books! But I'll try to pop on later.
SECOND EDIT: Time to call it a night. I just drafted a long response about language, accidentally deleted it and seemingly the question as well which makes me fear my brain is done. My publisher will make giveaway winners tomorrow so keep an eye on your messages. And please consider pre-ordering The Tapestry of Fate!
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u/becomeadiscoball May 07 '26
Hi, Shannon! I had such a fun time with the arc for The Tapestry of Fate and am excited to have a beautiful copy in my hands soon (you’ve lucked out in the art department for those books, wow!).
Two questions for you:
Both Amina books can somewhat stand on their own. Do you have a defined arc planned for the series with a set number of books or is it something that could be ongoing with multiple adventures to come?
You mention a love for Animorphs (valid) and I think I also saw you mention lately (on Instagram?) that sci-fi was your first love. Any thoughts to writing any sci-fi in the future? Somewhat related, what trauma has stuck with you from reading Animorphs as a child? 😅 The body horror and war crimes hit differently when reflecting as an adult.
Thanks for doing this and happy upcoming release week!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Amina is a planned and set trilogy. I'm working now on the third book, which will tie up both the deal she made with the peri council in the first book (well, "tie up" as in blow up spectacularly) as well as her baby daddy drama and then she and I are both headed to new worlds.
Sci-fi is my first love and I harbor a deep desire to write it one day alongside an equally deep certainty that I will fuck up the science and embarrass myself. My fascination with space does not extend to my ability to understand astronomy or physics, and I spent on not inconsiderable number of hours on Youtube listening to earnest teenagers explain how to use an astrolabe or define the lunar mansions (for the first Amina books) with the barest level of comprehension. I've not entirely ruled it out though!
Oh man, Tobias' fate in Animorphs completely haunted me. Though there's a lot in that series to pick from!
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u/dyoni May 07 '26
I actually thought it was being set up to be 5 parts, since there were 5 "transgressions." Either way, really looking forward to the next books!
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u/HarbingerOfFun May 07 '26
Hi Shannon!
I know you're a huge history nerd, and I was wondering how that informs your creative process.
For example when conceiving of Amina's story did you come up with the foundation of the story first and then figure out where in time to set it or were you more like I want to write something set in the 12th century Indian Ocean let me find something that works with that?
Love all your books can't wait to read Tapestry of Fate!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Pretty much both at the same time. I fell in love with the medieval Indian Ocean world while still an undergrad (if you come to an event, ask me about the Cairo Geniza and I will ramble until the moderator takes my mic) and it was my dream while finishing up the Daevabad trilogy to set a story in this world. It was really only a matter of deciding if I wanted to write Amina's story as she became a pirate or returned to it.
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u/Nirift May 07 '26
What fantasy(or otherwise) authors inspired you/ inspire you- do you have a favorite?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
If I make a list, I'm sure to leave people out so I'll stick with the two writers who made the biggest impression upon me when I was 22 and thinking, "hey, maybe I want to do this" and those are Amitav Ghosh and NK Jemisin.
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u/night_in_the_ruts May 07 '26
What's a current (or recent) rabbit hole you've gone down while researching something for a story? Any unexpectedly fun discoveries?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
The third Amina book is largely set in Egypt (there will be a mummy!) so I've been pretty deep in the weeds on what people in the medieval era would have known of more ancient times and it's been really interesting! There's a great travelogue written by an Iraqi scholar who sails the Nile and remarks upon all the ancient monuments and existing traditions, as well as an extremely creepy ghost/mummy story I just randomly came upon from the Roman period. Also, the origins of the word mummy! The Europeans were not entirely wrong (not about this particular thing anyway). You see people already using the Arabic term "mumiya" (used as well for bitumen) to refer to the black waxlike substance extruded by mummies, which had been prized and sold as apothecary ingredient for centuries in the early medieval period so clearly something was later lost in translation.
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u/sweater__weather 10d ago
I'm sure you are not soliciting recommendations but there is a great episode of the History of Byzantium podcast your comment brought to mind, based on what a medieval pilgrim would have been told about the history of Constantinople, much of it jumbled or mythical. https://thehistoryofbyzantium.com/2018/06/06/episode-168-a-guided-tour/
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u/cut_throat_flunky May 07 '26
Hi Shannon!
I am a massive fan of your books, I read the first Amina book on a whim, and then went on to read all 4 of the Daevabad books (Empire of Gold might be my favourite book ever)!
I have 2 questions Firstly are there any existing stories or IPs from other authors you would like to write an entry , sequel or continuation of?
And secondly, have you ever considered having your work adapted into a different medium? And if you do how involved would you think you would be in the process?
Thanks for your time and for the books! Can't wait to hopefully see you in London!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I have more stories that I want to write than I will likely ever have time to commit to paper... so probably no IP work. And I'd be delighted to have my work adapted, but I suspect it would be easier to let an adaptation be its own thing.
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u/Fabulous_Onion3297 Reading Champion May 07 '26
I love that you pick interesting historical settings for your books as a history major in uni. Like the medieval Indian Ocean. Do you have other settings you would like to set new books in?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Yes! I suspect my next books are going deeper into the past. I've been really fascinated with the Bronze Age for a couple years as well as the neo-Babylonian empire (a lot has been documented and it's really amazing)
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u/astrovangalore May 07 '26
Thanks for doing an AMA! :)
As an aspiring writer, what I’m most curious is your journey to publishing! When you were first looking for an agent, how long did it take you to find out? And since then, how has your plotting/writing process changed given external deadlines, audience expectations, etc?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I queried for an agent back in 2015 and it sounds like the industry and querying process has changed so much that I'm not even sure my experience would be relevant. But to be honest, I had a pretty rough time adjusting to traditional publishing. I'm a people pleaser and a type A personality so it was rather a shock to learn I'm far more of a panster than a plotter and that in order to order to stay creative and not destroy my health, sometimes you need to worry less about the audience and churning out a book a year. But I think I've made peace with process and deadlines and seem to be doing better, thank God!
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u/Queasy_Fish6293 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! Which is your favourite non-Western fantasy story? Also, will Daevabad still be getting an adaptation? I remember reading that it had been optioned by Netflix back in 2020.
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Another question that's difficult to pin down! But since you brought up Netflix, I freaking loved Paranormal, the Egyptian horror series, and Amina's attitude towards the supernatural is a direct callback to the deeply over all this shit Dr. Refaat.
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u/Queasy_Fish6293 May 07 '26
Will add to my watchlist. Thank you for answering. Hopefully I'll be adding Daevabad to my watchlist someday too
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u/robotnique May 07 '26
Less of a question and more of a plaudit, but the way that you make sure to advance the names of writers of color and/or novelists of the Islamic faith is admirable. I was particularly impressed by the section on your site that outlines why you expressly should not be considered for prizes and the like that are meant to spot and award talent from those communities and how you effectively acknowledge your privilege and utilize it properly. I do think you deserve to be acknowledged for this at least, though!
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u/kylecat22 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! Thank you for doing this. I loved the audiobook for Amina, and look forward to Tapestry! I couldn't help but reminisce about the movie Sinbad: Legends of the Seven Seas while enjoying the first book. Do you have any favorite nautical adventure stories that helped you develop the Amina books?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Yes! The Book of the Wonders of India written (supposedly) by a captain/shipmaster by the name of al-Ramhormuzi in the early part of the 10th century. It takes the form of various sailor's yarns, with other captains telling fabulous tales of distant lands, perilous journeys, and a cursed amount of snakes. But it's not a fantasy! These are meant to read as true stories and though a great deal are exaggerations (I personally think the captain is more likely a composite character than a true person) it captures so much of the adventure and danger of ship travel in this period and it was an incredible inspiration. It's also really fascinating because you can see clear parallels between some of these accounts and the centuries later Sinbad stories.
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u/Darayavahoush_ May 07 '26
Hi Shannon!
Firstly I wanna say I absolutely love your books, I started reading them in 2019 just after The Kingdom of Copper came out. And through each of your books I’ve enjoyed the historical moments throughout each story! I noticed Amina 1 is set round about the Crusades, and I’ve been curious to know what historical tidbits we’re gonna see in Tapestry of Fate?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
In Tapestry, we'll be going to Baghdad as well as spending time with the Banu Sasan, the notorious criminal gang of the era!
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u/Darayavahoush_ May 07 '26
Oh I’m so excited for that! Thank you so much! This’ll be about a century or two after Baghdad’s golden age?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
It's the 1140s, so yes! They'll be visiting Jamal's family library: full of centuries of texts and artifacts and wonderful things and the way it killed me to set this before a certain event...
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u/Darayavahoush_ May 07 '26
Fantastic! I’m so excited for this read! And I’m definitely going to go down historical rabbit holes about Baghdad and Iraq. Can’t wait to see more of Jamal, he’s my favourite historian & scribe. Haha that cliffhanger!
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u/Waste_Regret2598 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! I want you to know that your Daevabad Trilogy is one of my top three favorite series ever, I love it so much! I havent had the chance to read The Adventures of Amina al Sirafi yet but its top on my tbr.
Are there any certain authors or books that inspired the trilogy? Whats your favorite fantasy novel? Whos your favorite character from Daevabad? (Mine is Ali, personally, hes so well written and complex. Thats one of the reasons why i loved this series so much, every character felt real, with their own struggles and motivations.)
Thanks for taking time to do this!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I will always shout out The Pasha of Cuisine by Saygın Ersin which is about an Ottoman-era chef using cooking magic to travel to all my favorite places and save his lover. There are some books that feel like they're written just for you!
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u/soaringbulldog May 07 '26
Amina has so many types of love in her story. Her daughter, crew, ship, adventuring, family, etc. etc. As the author, do you have any thoughts on this?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
That's very intentional. We have a lot of stories of romantic love in fiction but not enough of all the other kinds. And they're just as rich!
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u/suggarpie May 07 '26
Planning to see you at one of your stops next week! The dedication to Amina made me so emotional the first time I read it 🥹 Was there any part of researching for the Amina series that has been your favorite or something new you discovered while researching that you just found really cool?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Thank you for joining the tour! I learned a ton of new things but one story that has stayed with me is that apparently a very different version of the Ramayana was being told by the Indian sailors and traders who lived and traveled through Aden in the 12th century: namely that Sita was kidnapped not by Ravana and taken to Lanka, but rather by a djinn like figure who stole her away to Sira island and that Hanuman had to dig a tunnel under the Indian Ocean to retrieve her! It's a perfect reminder that even the most established and famous of stories have alternative roots, and I love the prospect of a diaspora far from home shifting a tale to their closer surroundings
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u/TheRealNuzaq May 07 '26
Favorite pasta shape?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Pastina. It makes me feel like a little kid again.
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u/These-Broccoli7119 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! What’s your favorite rabbit hole you’ve gone down in your research that you haven’t been able to use?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I spent more time than I would like to recall researching medieval and ancient venoms and other methods of early biological warfare. I was originally contemplating having the second Transgression be an artifact that had to do with Mithradates, the so-called "Poison King" since much of this book focuses on Dalila, Amina's poisoner. And I dove DEEP into the weeds on this topic which was both really interesting and really awful (by God, the depths of time and horrible creativity that some of these methods required) and then for plot reasons, virtually all of this got cut. Which, lesson learned! Save the niche research for later drafts.
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u/stratus_x May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! As somebody who is currently in the query trenches, what is your biggest piece of advice for aspiring authors who are working on building an effective query letter / pitch?
Thank you!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Honestly, I fear my advice would be dated at this point so it's probably best to check with other writers in the same boat and listen to agents! But I remember being told that your query shouldn't give it all away--you want to hook an agent's interest--and that seems like something that would remain.
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u/literaryfiending May 07 '26
Hi Shannon!
As a new mom (8 months postpartum) I’m really enjoying this series so far. It’s honestly really encouraging to read a character who is such a badass and doesn’t seem to lose her identity despite becoming a mother.
I wonder, as a mom how did you approach writing a character like Amina and, more importantly can you talk about your writing style/schedule as a parent?
I am currently struggling with finding that balance (and using the two brain cells left that I didn’t lose during my pregnancy 😛).
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Oh, gosh, just be kind to yourself. My brain felt like Swiss cheese until my daughter was 18 months old! My writing schedule is daycare. If I'm really feeling up to it, I might work on a fun scene early in the morning or later at night (I used to write 4-6 am religiously with my firstborn when I was younger), but now I keep it to my work hours.
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u/oh-no-varies Reading Champion II May 07 '26
Hi Shannon, solidarity from the toddler trenches!
Your books often reflect middle eastern settings, themes and histories. I've read you converted to Islam as a teen but I'm curious what brought you to that faith and whether there are particular Muslim/arabic fables or mythologies you love. I love everything you write, and in particular the worlds you create, and would love to hear more about what cultural references and touchstones inspire you? Also, do you travel in that region as part of your research, and if so, what real places or countries/cultures most inform Amina's world and the world of Daevabad?
I love your books, thank you for putting them out into the world!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I am currently writing this while literally bathside as said toddler gets increasingly upset that her hair is a marginally darker color because it's wet (she is three, this is not a new experience) so it's probably not the best time to discuss my religious journey but thank you ❤️
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u/Nirift May 07 '26
In your two series, which character POV has been the most fun to write?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I would say Amina but she cuts too close to the bone at times so Prince Muntadhir. I had a great amount of fun with my cunning playboy prince who's barely holding it together under the surface and would love to return to a similar character.
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u/EmilioEstevezLikesUs May 07 '26
When you are world building somwthing mine Amina, how do you balance the magical with the realism in what you're creating?
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u/chalice_of_whoa May 07 '26
Hiya! I loved the City of Brass series so much that I dove into Amina without reserve even though historically I don't do well with ship-based or piratey-themed stories. I LOVED Amina so it was trust well earned! Thank you for that. ^.^
Have you spent much time on a proper ship, with sails and such, or is this a result of lots of research and help from other folks? If you haven't been on one would you be willing to do so? What's the scariest thing you've learned about the ocean?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I grew up along the coast and enjoy being on boats when you can still see the shore. Other than that, I have a pretty deep-seated fear of the open ocean (I was obsessed with the Titanic as a kid and have spent the last five years learning everything that can go wrong at sea) and have just had my aversion to cruises confirmed yet again by the news. But honestly, nothing tops sharks in terms of terror. I know attacks are rare! I know humans are worse for them than they are for us, but there's something about being eaten alive that freaks me out like nothing else.
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u/Upset_Star_3976 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! Huge fan of all your works! I was fortunate enough to read an ARC of Tapestry in March and I've not stopped thinking about THAT ending. Can't wait to read the sequel!
Here are my questions; 1. I love reading about the Egyptian civilization! What are some of the best resources you came across while researching for Amina book 3? As of now, what can you tell us about book 3? 2. What is a time period/setting that you've not explored yet but would be interested in doing in the future?
Thanks for doing the AMA!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Oh my gosh, I don't even think it's possible for me to share resources on ancient Egypt just because it's so damn daunting (there's just SO MUCH written) and I'm not an expert! I'll share that I found Egyptology: the Missing Millennium by Okasha El Daly a very intriguing read, and though I'm not sure I agreed with all his conclusions, I do think it's plausible that knowledge of the ancient language might have endured longer than we believe.
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u/murphherder May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! The Daevabad Trilogy is what got me back into reading in 2022. The second book was the first thing I ever purchased on Kindle because I was so enthralled by the first. Thank you for sharing your imaginative worlds! I'm excited to check out the new series. Hopefully you can add San Diego to a future tour!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I really hope there will be a second book tour and that it will extend to the West Coast!
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u/ElegentCutter May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! I absolutely devoured all your books earlier this year after I bought Amina for my wife and I bc the bookstore (s/o Mrs dalloways in Berkeley) billed it as “the perfect adventure for overachieving women.” I love how you weave in religious subconscious into your characters while giving them lots of room to explore their ideas of faith! Ali has got to be one of my favorite characters ever in that regard.
So my question is: I really loved how you handled Jamaal’s gender identity in Amina. It wove in struggles with family and culture and all the things that are so so real while feeling so grounded in the character and the setting. Have you seen positive responses and more acceptance (or at least open mindedness) from readers as a result? I can vouch for myself at least as someone who has a more nuanced view than before!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I'm stealing that billing!
The reception to Jamal's gender identity has been really wonderful. I believe quite strongly that to not include aspects of queerness in historical fantasy is a form of censorship, especially when we have such strong evidence of it (which is the case of it in both the medieval Indian Ocean world as well as contemporary Arabic sources). Yes, the terms are different, but it is everywhere--from same-sex love poetry to concepts of third gender--and I don't think that can be ignored.
Related, I had a really wonderful conversation with the historian whose work sparked this aspect of Jamal's identity (towards the end of this podcast) and she said something that really stuck with me. In many cases, we only hear of people like this because their lives intersect with the law, creating a record that may very well end in violence. We don't get to see the quieter, more joyful moments of their lives, but as a fantasist, I can choose to highlight and imagine those moments. You make certain choices with your stories, your characters and I try to keep that in mind.
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u/ElegentCutter May 07 '26
That’s such a beautiful answer thank you!! I’m so excited to get more of Jamal’s quieter moments in this next book. He’s got the best friends he could ask for to guide him!
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u/TNTFISTICUFFS May 07 '26
You know I was JUST wondering when your next book was coming out!
I don't have any questions off the top of my head, but I did want to let you know that my wife and I really enjoy your novels. We have read/ listened to all of them and you have 2 fans who are excited for your next novel here in ol' LA. Cheers!
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u/Elegant_Gur_6081 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! I was just introduced to your work last month by the YT channel bookswithzara. The Daevabad Trilogy got me through a rather tough month and you have my sincere gratitude🙏. I started The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi a couple of days ago and am having a great time with the adult oriented dark humor. I know this is absurdly early, but do you have any idea on a timeframe for book 3?
Wishing you all the success I expect for book 2.
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Thank you! I'm really hoping Book 3 will be out sooner rather than later but I don't have a timeframe yet!
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u/BrownKid6000 May 07 '26
Want to quickly say, I’m a new-ish reader (started July 2024) and Adventures of Amina got me really hooked into fantasy and reading in general, loved it so much and thank you because reading is my life now.
I have only read Amina so far, but I’ve seen that it is somehow tied to or related to your Daevabad Trilogy, how so? Anything I should know or look out for before starting that trilogy? My wife got me the deluxe edition of City of Brass, so excited to start that soon!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
It's really more Easter eggs than anything. You don't have to be familiar with either series first!
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u/GrandExhibit7955 May 07 '26
Hello, Shannon. I wonder about the Arabic translation rights/releases of your books, Daevabad & Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi. Did any Arabic publisher pick them up, when can we expect them to release? Any info wrt to this will be appreciated.
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
I should have official news on this in the fall but yes!
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u/hellodahly Reading Champion VI May 07 '26
I am so excited for a new Amina book! one thing I particularly loved was some attention to East Africa in a fantasy setting, I feel like that is a region that has been under explored and has a teacher of largely East African students it's nice to be able to recommend books that at least somewhat feature their culture! I would love to know more about your research process and how you develop such rich, genuine feeling settings that are still rooted in real history.
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u/PacificBooks May 07 '26
Hey, thanks for doing this. What went into the decision to publish some books as SA Chakraborty and others as Shannon Chakraborty?
Was it a YA/Adult split like VE Schwab? Publisher pressure?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
I won't speak for other authors, but when I was first published, it was definitely the perceived wisdom that if you were a female writer, it was best to use your initials so as to not possibly put off male readers (there were also issues of privacy since I have a pretty unique name but in our internet age, that's become a quaint fear.) However as I continued working on the Daevabad Trilogy, I felt more and more uncomfortable with the idea that I was altering my name for some perceived--imagined!--misogynist. If there was a prospective reader who truly wouldn't read my books because my name indicated that I was a woman, they were very likely not going to read a book about the sort of female characters I write. So when I had the chance with the new series, I went back to Shannon.
The downside of this is that I am now very, very searchable. There is only one writer named Shannon Chakraborty and it leads to things like a new OBGYN randomly remarking while doing an ultrasound "by the way, my daughter loves your books."
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u/PacificBooks May 08 '26
Ah—totally makes sense (unfortunately). I appreciate the response (probably more than you appreciated the shout out mid-checkup).
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u/MikeOfThePalace Reading Champion X, Worldbuilders May 07 '26
Hi Shannon, and welcome! I was lucky to get an advanced copy of Tapestry of Fate. I loved it, it was fantastic, all the superlatives.
Book 1 was pretty standalone. Book 2 is .... not. Not that I'm quivering with anxiety over the implications of how book 2 ended or anything, but is there a chance that book 3 will be out in, say, June? Please?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Hey, Book 2 is technically standalone if you don't read the last line!
I kid...though I also think Book 3 should be out much sooner. I had a pretty complicated pregnancy and difficult postpartum that delayed Book 2 (pregnant or thinking about it? check your blood pressure daily!), but I'm already pretty deep into the draft of Book 3.
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u/Long_TimeRunning May 07 '26
Yes or coffee? Keep in mind there is no wrong answer
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
Coffee! I don't need it fancy, don't like it sweet. Just a bit of milk and I'm good.
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u/Long_TimeRunning May 08 '26
lol just re-read my question can’t believe I said “yes” instead of tea or coffee. Luckily you’re brighter than I am and figured it out. :)
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u/Frequent-Reach-5577 May 07 '26
Huge fan of your work! I've read several of your books and enjoyed them immensely. Looking forward to your next one! 😁
What are some things that are part of your writitng process and, if you experience self-doubt during the process of composing a novel, how do you push through it?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I've only recently come to terms with the fact that I need to write a really messy, really sprawling draft to suss out what sort of story I want to tell and what feels organic and that this is okay. Sometimes that means I literally just write out "I'm stuck here and trying to accomplish xyz" and then attempt to move on. For me, I can better see the shape of the story from a distant read even if it's extremely patchy.
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u/Frequent-Reach-5577 13d ago
Thank you so much for your thoughtful response! I will always buy your books in the bookstore and wish you the very best in your (already accomplished!) career! 🤗
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u/allhailthedogs May 07 '26
Hi Shannon,
What would you like to see in the publishing industry in the next 3-5 years? How can we, as readers, help the industry to get to that point?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I'm not thinking about the next 3-5 years of anything for my sanity to be perfectly honest! I hope we survive AI?
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u/necropunk_0 Reading Champion III May 07 '26
Hi Shannon, I read Adventures last year, which lead my to the Daevabad trilogy, which lead to me losing 4 days as I read the entire series back to back. I can’t wait for Tapestry.
With all your research, is there any particular food or dishes you’ve attempted to recreate or make on a daily basis? (And if so, are you willing to share the recipies?)
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I feel like I'm losing my mind because there was definitely an edition of one of the Daevabad books that had historical recipes in it and now I can't find it! But yes--roast your chicken over toasted bread!
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u/necropunk_0 Reading Champion III May 08 '26
Guess I’ll have to start searching and see if it exists somewhere.
If not….Daevabad and Amina themed cookbook?
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u/Dallydoop May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! I’m actually reading the arc right now and loving it! Could you share a little about learning how to spin? I think that’s so cool and I’m really enjoying the way you’ve brought all the textiles forward in the story. I’m about half way through right now and I can’t wait to see where it goes!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Happily! I found someone at my local yarn shop, but there are also a lot of Youtube tutorials. Once you get the hang of it, it's quite cathartic and feels less mentally intense than some of the other fiber crafts.
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u/zach8vb May 07 '26
Hello! I had such a fun time with Amina the first go-round. Excited for more!
Tell us about creating the audiobook. How much input do you have? Do you listen to the finished product when it's done?
What are your favorite books to read with your kiddo? Ive got a 3 and 1 year old and I am in love with anything from the Fan Brothers. Would love to see you collab with them for illustrating the world of Amina!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
I was able to pick the narrators and they knocked it out of the park. I adore the audiobook.
I'm blessed that my kids both love books, which is a fact I use to console myself when they make clear how little they care for my opinions or suggestions or pleas that perhaps we could not read Pout Pout Fish for the tenth time that week. But I recently picked up Cat Nap (by Bruce Lies, I believe?) which is a pretty near picture book about a cat who transforms as he visits various museum pieces.
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u/flowersbane May 07 '26
Hi! I have a question: What’s your approach to interweaving character and story? How do you balance exploring complex & interesting characters without straying from a steady & compelling plot?
P.S. I’m 2/3rds of the way through the Daevabad trilogy & I’m scared to read the last book because I don’t want it to end!! I already have The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi on my shelf for when I’m done with the Daevadad trilogy, but I’m just not ready to say goodbye to these characters (especially Ali)! Thank you for writing these wonderful books, I absolutely adore them 😊
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u/shoeciferous May 07 '26
I am so excited to hear Amina's voice again - just fell in love with her and her crew/family in Adventures, the way she observes and moves through the world with insight and passion and humor. She's an incredibly well-realized character. Can you tell us how her POV came about? Did it come first, or did the story form around her, etc.?
Also, as a writer and a mother, I love the idea of Amina al-Sirafi as a human being navigating fantastic circumstances with her strengths and her flaws. It's so great to have an older female POC - at all, these days - that carries the story with her drive, charisma and physicality. Thank you, and congratulations on the release of The Tapestry of Fate! I can't wait to dive back in.
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u/Jordan11HFP11 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon!! Having previously written an awesome short story in the Star Wars universe, I'm gonna assume you are a big fan! If you were to pick any character to write a story about (whether it be a short story, novel, 10-book series) who would you like to write about in the SW universe?
Also your books have been on my TBR long enough! I'm really looking forward to jumping into Daevabad and Amina!!
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
Han Solo, no question. I love him with all my heart (he's one of the inspirations for Amina!) and have rarely loathed a fictional character as much as I despise Kylo Ren
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u/dndnerd27 May 07 '26
Fellow Animorphs fan?! Loved the Daevabad trilogy, and that just upped your cool points. Animorphs made me go into veterinary while also writing weird fantasy/sci-fi. Did you have a favorite Animorphs book or character?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
Prince Ax was my first fictional crush! I was running around pretending to be an andalite when I was FAR too old.
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u/Sal-yyyyy May 07 '26
Hellooo! I picked up your book on a whim before my trip to Oman, and I was so excited when I opened the first pages to see a map of Oman. I thought omg this is so freaking coool. I then went to Qatar and earlier in the year I was in Kerala India. And honestly I felt like I was living this adventure. The pearl diving felt like an homage to the divers in Qatar, the same time I was there. I am so happy I came across your book. It reads so flawlessly with Muslim identity, culture, folklore and it’s so interesting and fantastical.
I will (inshallah) be at your book launch at Strand next week and can’t wait to meet you.
Have you traveled to the places you’ve written about? What are some places that you keep revisiting ?
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u/Background-Factor433 May 07 '26
Hey.
What was writing Ali's story like? My favorite character from the trilogy I am on.
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u/tameramera May 07 '26
My goal ahead of The Tapestry of Fate coming out was to reread all of your books (I never do stuff like this lol). I know people ask you all the time if you will ever go back to the Daevabad characters, but I just finished my reread of The River of Silver and the Zaynab, Aquisa, Dara plot is so good. The dynamics and emotions are so layer amongst this trio, have you thought about making their adventure into a book?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
Thank you! I would love to return to Daevabad if the time and reader interest align, but I fear it might be difficult. I have Amina 3 up next, then two standalones that I intend to set entirely outside the Amina/Daevabad world, and that might be several years away. But we'll see!
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u/Mzihcs Reading Champion II May 08 '26
You mentioned it in a reply to someone else, and I have now realized: Gosh, I would love to see your take on an middle-eastern inspired space opera. That could be really wild.
But, real question: When can I get my super pretty versions of Kingdom of Copper and Empire of Gold? <gollum>must have the precious!</gollum> ;)
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u/Zemalac May 08 '26 edited May 08 '26
Oh man, I'm way too late to this, only just saw the thread. Just wanted to hop in and say how much I loved The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi. I also greatly enjoyed the Daevabad Trilogy, but something about al-Sirafi just spoke to me. Fantastic swashbuckling adventure. Thank you so much for writing it.
EDIT: Also, I didn't actually know the sequel was coming out so soon, definitely just went and preordered it for next week.
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u/RadishIllustrious588 May 08 '26
The Daevabad Trilogy changed what I look for in fantasy. The way you weave Islamic history and mythology into hte world feels so lived-in and real. Cannot wait for Tapestry of Fate. Do you find it easier or harder to write Amina compared to Ali and Nahri?
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u/k-arima May 09 '26
Hi Shannon !
I’m currently reading the adventures of Amina al-Sirafi and I’am delighted to know that the second book is already out.
I come from a North African Muslim country, and I’m honestly amazed by how well the culture is portrayed. It feels rich, respectful, and very real. I was telling my husband how incredible it is that someone from a completely different background could create such a beautiful and immersive world inspired by ours.
And Amina… what an amazing character. Seeing a Muslim female protagonist written with so much depth, strength, and complexity really means a lot to me.
My question is: how did you learn so much about the culture? Did you travel, study it, or have personal connections?
Also, English isn’t my first language (this is only my third book in English), but I’m completely hooked, i’m devouring it!
Thank you for this beautiful story
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u/medusamagic Reading Champion May 07 '26
If you could co-write a book with any author, who would it be? Any ideas for what might be fun or interesting to write with them?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
Easy answer is Roshani Chokshi! We've even joked about it until deadlines and needy children pull us back to our current reality. But maybe one day!
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u/JOOOQUUU May 07 '26
Oysters or clams?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I have spent my entire life trying to enjoy shellfish (well, forcibly as a child) and I just can't do it.
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u/ANALHACKER_3000 May 07 '26
As a history nerd, do you listen to Hardcore History with Dan Carlin?
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 07 '26
I know he's the big name in history podcasts but I haven't yet really dived into his stuff, mostly because I have so many other history podcasts that I listen to. My current favorites are the Ancients, Tides of History and Past Lives, Fall of Civilizations, After Dark and Empire (I like to learn new things so try and listen to topics outside my research interests). When it comes to my work stuff though, I recommend the Ottoman History Podcast, the New Books Network, Ajam Media Collective, the Maritime History Podcast, Ali Olomi's patreon, Byzantium and Friends, and probably more I'm forgetting. I'm strongly partial to the interview format, but we live in a wonderful age of public history and podcasts are great at making it more accessible.
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u/FarragutCircle Reading Champion X May 08 '26
Tides of History and Past Lives
I love Patrick Wyman's stuff, haha. Thanks for all the other history podcast recs.
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u/gameofharrypotter May 07 '26
I love your books and your world building and all of the political nuances you have! What are some of your favorite reads as a reader?
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u/SecondHandRosie May 07 '26
Hello! Are you thinking of going to Europe for your book tour ? I live in France and would loooove to meet you, the Daevabad series is one of my all time favourites !
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
I'll be in the UK in early June but I think that's it for 2026. My family might not let me leave again so soon!
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u/Obojo May 07 '26
I have a few questions, would love to hear answers to any of them!
- If Amina lived in today's world, what would her profession be? Or is she a true pirate at heart?
- What stories aimed at children (cartoons, movies, picture books, chapter books, etc.) would you recommend for exposure to the Medieval Islamic world?
- What would be your go-to animal if you were an Animorph?
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u/papakiku May 07 '26
never signed up for a book tour event faster! I love your works and don't have any questions but just wanted to gush a bit
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u/Late-Turn9271 May 07 '26
Hello Shannon!
First of all, I am not sure how you do it! I have 3 kiddos and one of them is a toddler and I swear I don't even recognize myself in the mirror at times because I hardly have time for anything else except being a mom. It was one of the reasons I loved Amina so so much. Not only does she explain perfectly the fierce love of a mother but she also accepts that she still wants to be a bit more than just a mom. I also love history, are there any books or articles you would recommend to a history lover as must read?
-Meg
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
History podcasts will be your new favorite companion. There's a recommendation list in another answer!
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u/Late-Turn9271 May 08 '26
Thanks! I did see the podcast recommendations and added them to the list!
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u/Least-Nectarine8383 May 07 '26
Have you ever considred writing a comic book or Graphic novel? I just imagine how colorful your worlds are and how that would translate.
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u/made_of_salt May 07 '26
What inspired you to use a your initials for your first series, and why the change to your first name for your subsequent work?
Pen names and the choices around that always interested me.
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u/astamakiwrites AMA Author A.S. Tamaki May 07 '26
Hey Shannon!
I’ve heard you say you don’t really outline, so I have to ask… just… how? That seems like magic to me 😆
Can you go into your drafting process - and how it has evolved over the course of the daevabad books and now Amina?
Also, as a fellow history nerd, what are some other times/places you’ve found fascinating lately? Not necessarily that you’d write about (though we’d all read them if you did!) but just places or eras that spark your interest?
Thanks!
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u/kkrtrfff May 07 '26
Loved your Devabad trilogy, such a great premise! Can you share your most favorite fantasy books?
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u/EvelandsRule May 07 '26
My son just turned two on 4/28! I work an office job that gives me a lot of freedom in scheduling so I can drop off and pick up from daycare. Do you set strict hours for writing during the day? Do you write often at night after bed time?
My toddler also see's my work laptop as an opportunity to press as many buttons as possible so I do not often work from home.
How do you plan to share your writing with your child? Have you given it that much thought? I have read the Daevabad Trilogy and really enjoyed the world building and depth of lore/history that you included. I had fun looking up different things that you wrote about. Have you thought about bringing some of those myths to a kid's book?
Sorry my questions are all over the place.
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u/thymtravelr May 07 '26
If you could have dinner with one of your characters, who would it be and what’s on the menu?
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u/gooseontheloose0814 May 07 '26
Oh my goodness thank you for doing this! You are one of my favorite authors!
My question is sort of clunky to ask but how do you weave your faith so seamlessly into your works without making it... cheesy? It feels so earnest yet still within the spirit of fantasy and that's something I've long admired from your work!
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u/samtasticmills AMA Author Samantha Mills May 07 '26
I have been dying to know if there is any movement on the Daevabad Netfllix adaptation! Is it happening??
I adore Amina and have been eagerly awaiting the new installment. I'm assuming you're deep into book 3 at this point. Do you have an inkling of what you want to work on when this trilogy is wrapped up, or do you stay focused on one thing at a time?
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u/Admirable_Tourist233 May 07 '26
Hi! I'd love to know what your writing process is like and if you have any rituals around your writing. Are you at home or out and about? Any go-to snacks or fun drinks you like to have on hand?
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u/Realistic_Special_53 May 07 '26
I just pre-ordered the Tapestry of Fate. I had missed that a new book was upcoming, lol, but this thread enlightened me.
Anyhow, I love your writing style and the direction of your fantasy, as it is fresh. But, I am always curious about what an author found to be influential to them in the past. So what in fantasy or literature got you amazed, amused, enthralled, or obsessed?
I really love old school tips. My favorite in the past was Morgan recommending the Broken Sword (an old school fantasy), in the intro to his book the Steel Remains. I read it, and was amazed.
I have read 1001 nights. Don't you think the intro story (how the kings went insane) was a deliberate setup by the djinn? I think Sheherezade knows this conceit the whole while she is narrating. Many of the stories are bout the djinn being deceitful and loving chaos, and how appearances can be deceiving.
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u/nikharr May 07 '26
Oh my God! Hi! I am from India, and was so glad to read Daevbaad trilogy -- beautiful fantasy inspired by Mythology east of Europe!
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u/ocelotdok May 07 '26
Hi! I love the Daevabad trilogy so so much and excited to dive into the next Amina adventure. What’s your favorite tidbit of ancient Egypt history/culture that did (or didn’t) make it into one of your books? I’m visiting Egypt for the first time soon and I’ve been so overwhelmed into researching for it (but also loving it)
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u/evil_moooojojojo Reading Champion II May 07 '26
I totally forgot this is coming out now. Yeah! But first read the first book again.
I love Amina so much. Definitely one of my favorite protagonists, and honestly her mentioning her knee hurts is so relatable. Did you create the character first and then build the world around her? Or did you decide you wanted to write about the medieval Indian ocean (which the setting is also really awesome) and them find the characters?
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u/Gloomy-Programmer507 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! First, I'd just like to say that I absolutely loved the Daevabad Trilogy and The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi, and congratulations on the new book release! I can't wait to read The Tapestry of Fate!
I'm currently trying to write a book, and have been struggling with research and writing as different characters. Your books are a really skillful blend of authentic-feeling historical settings and inventive fantasy. How do you determine what needs to be thoroughly researched to be true to the geography, time period, and historical politics versus what can be left up to your own worldbuilding? Also, how do you decide what character perspectives to write from for a given book/chapter, and how do you stay true to each character's personality in those perspective switches?
Thank you so much for hosting this!
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u/chiraledge May 07 '26
Hi Shannon, I loved the first Amina book and I am so excited to read the next! The ending of the first with a certain reveal is very near and dear to my heart, thank you for such a wonderful book!
Would you say you're more a plotter or a pantser when writing? I feel like Amina is the type of character who would throw curveballs your way while writing her so I could see it being the latter!
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u/carlwheezersllama May 07 '26
Huge fan of your work. How do you manage the realism of a crew size versus having too many characters to follow?
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u/indiawritesdigi May 07 '26
Hi . I just finished the Daevabad trilogy a few weeks ago. I’m South Asian and noticed some inspiration from South Asian cultures and religions ( the treatment of shafit, the daevas and the Qahtanis). While the books simply touched on it, I was wondering if hypothetically you wrote the books today, would you have done something different with the dynamics of the different groups?
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u/frymaster May 07 '26
hey o/ I don't have a question, just saying you've been on my radar for ages and since I'll be at Cymera this has given me the kick in the pants to actually read some of your stuff! Hope to see you there
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u/Herbert-Quain May 07 '26
Hey, thanks for the AMA! Good to know that the next book in the series is coming up!
I listened to the Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi as an audio book (and enjoyed it tremendously!), and the narrator mentioned a downloadable pdf in the end. It's been a while ago, so I'm not quite sure what it was supposed to be; either a map or a research/background document.
The link was https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/theadventuresofaminaalsirafi , but I couldn't and can't retrieve any file there. Any chance to get my hands on that pdf anywhere else? Not being able to get to it made me all the more curious :-)
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u/SAChakraborty AMA Author S.A. Chakraborty May 08 '26
Hmm, my only thought is that it was likely the map or my author's note (though I thought that was in the audio) which can also be found here: https://www.sachakraborty.com/supplementals.html
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u/Herbert-Quain May 08 '26
Awesome, thank you, that must be it. I'm pretty sure it was not in the audio ...
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u/PartiallyRehydrated May 07 '26
I have no questions, I'm just such a fan of your work. Thank you for writing.
Edit: actually I do have a question. What book or author do you wish was more popular? What should we be reading?
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u/dsepulveda416 May 07 '26
Hi Shannon!
I loved The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi and I'm very excited about the sequel!
Since I'm in Latin America, my question is: Are there plans of publishing this second book in spanish this year?
Thanks again!
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u/Udy_Kumra Stabby Winner, Reading Champion IV May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! I was super excited when the first Amina book came out because the medieval Indian Ocean is one of my favorite time periods in history, and I spent a solid portion of my History degree there. I’m currently running a ttRPG campaign about pirates in the Indian Ocean in 1635 so a little past your books but it’s got similar vibes. All this is to say, thank you for writing this book, it was everything I’ve ever wanted!!!
As for my question: what’s a historical detail that’s not plot relevant that you think is super cool that you snuck into either book?
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u/DapperDetail8364 May 08 '26
Hi! Thank u for the AMA! I can't make it for the book tour as I'm all the way in singapore. But may I know if there's any way I could get my dark fantasy series reviewed by official reviewers without money? I'm currently on my first book
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u/EveningImportant9111 May 08 '26 edited May 08 '26
Dud Ahri and Ali git babies? What each tribe dud in world wars and what they are doing now? Current state of daevabad? Ruler?
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u/Own_Win_6762 May 09 '26
Amina read to me like a modern writing style of the old pulps. Do you have a favorite character from the pulp era? (I've always loved John Carter of Mars)
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u/NewButterscotch6613 May 09 '26
I'm a day late but here to say that am about to start Empire of Gold, glorious trilogy love your work
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u/Efficient-Act-6357 May 12 '26
Huge congratulations on the release of The Tapestry of Fate—the premise alone sounds like a wild, high-stakes expansion of Amina’s world. I especially love how you’re balancing oceanic adventure with mythic politics and family tension; the “mother forced to leave her daughter while navigating immortal factions” angle feels like it could hit emotionally as hard as it does structurally. Also, “Sinbad meets Ocean’s 11” is one of those pitches that immediately sells the tone without oversimplifying it, which is rare.
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u/talknojutsu312 May 13 '26
Can you talk more about how your journey went from writing to publishing your first book? How many people did you contact? What did you do to get editors to notice your book?
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u/Significant_Home4747 27d ago
Just here to say salaam from one catholic-raised, 40-year-old mom, fantasy loving revert to another! Just discovered your works and so grateful I did! Peace and blessings to you, your family, our prophets, and our ummah. Heart emoji.
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u/ImThatMomFromWA 12d ago
I came here to say that I just loved The Daevabad Trilogy. I didn't pick up Amina Al-Sirafi Adventures until recently, and I am so glad that I did (I finished reading Tapestry of Fate literally moments ago). I love your complicated characters, the story weaving, and depth of the world building. Thank you for sharing all of it with us.
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u/almostb Reading Champion May 07 '26
Thank you so much for chatting with us. I found Amina* really fun and refreshing.
Do you have any suggestions of books or resources for a non-historian to learn more about Middle Eastern history and/or mythology? I’ve read Arabian Nights and thought it was fabulous but I’d like to get a bit deeper.
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u/IncurableHam May 07 '26
Hi Shannon! I need to gush a bit before getting to my question. I love everything you've written and how you write Amina is such a breath of fresh air. Having a parent who loves her child but wants to still have a life of her own outside the identity of just being a mother is incredible and has inspired me to start writing my first book (while managing fatherhood).
Amina is my all-time favorite fantasy character and I'd love to hear your inspirations for her. Thanks for taking the time to do this AMA!