Brendan O’Meara – A Journey Through Dystopia
Discover the author’s insights into character development, genre blending, and the power of perseverance in writing
Brendan O’Meara discusses his debut novel Cut From Stone, its inspirations, character development, genre blending, and the dedication required to succeed as an independent author.
Brendan O’Meara, a native of White Plains, New York, has dedicated himself to the art of storytelling, culminating in his debut novel, Cut From Stone. This work not only marks the beginning of the Crafting Humanity series but also represents a decade of passion and perseverance. With a rich background that began in Philadelphia during his college years, O’Meara’s vivid imagination and love for adventure set the stage for his exploration of dystopian narratives. Now residing in Washington, DC, he draws on his diverse experiences, weaving elements of sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopia into immersive worlds.
Brendan O’Meara masterfully weaves complex narratives, creating immersive worlds that inspire readers through relatable characters and thoughtful exploration of societal themes.
In a recent interview, O’Meara offered insights into the creative process behind Cut From Stone, detailing the challenges he faced and the dedication required to bring his vision to life. He discussed the development of his protagonist, James, and the thematic elements driving the series, providing a glimpse into the mind of an author adept at blending genres.
O’Meara’s Cut From Stone invites readers into a world split between the BlankZone and the Federation, a dystopian reality inspired by historical and geopolitical events. “I pulled up on my interest in history and geopolitics to create the base world in which I would set my story,” he explained. “Countries like modern-day North Korea and East Berlin during the Cold War provided great real-world examples.” For O’Meara, the divide between the BlankZone and the Federation serves not merely as a commentary on current societal issues but as a compelling conflict essential to the narrative’s foundation—a global backdrop that proves invaluable for a series projected to span five books.
The journey of crafting a novel over a decade demands immense dedication, and O’Meara faced his share of challenges. “I was lucky to get a lot of the book written over a few months of my senior year of college,” he recalled. “But after graduation, I found myself stuck at a certain point in the story.” The realization that he could only call himself an author by putting in the work became a turning point for him. “Developing that work ethic and drive was the most challenging aspect of finishing the book.”
Central to the narrative is James, the protagonist who transforms from a teenager to an elite warrior. O’Meara aimed to create a relatable character whose journey resonates with readers. “James grows from someone who follows the leader to becoming the voice in the room not because he sought power, but because he was willing to acknowledge the strengths of those around him,” O’Meara noted. This internal struggle is a critical theme, emphasizing the balance between self-doubt and personal growth. O’Meara intentionally leaves James’s physical features vague, encouraging readers to form their own mental images of the character.
Balancing elements of sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopian fiction is a hallmark of O’Meara’s writing style. “These genres have always fascinated me,” he shared. “The authors and series I followed created excellent examples of how to blend the mystical aspects of fantasy, the technical elements of sci-fi, and the real-world lessons often examined in dystopian fiction.” This fusion allows him to craft a rich narrative where characters navigate their universe alongside readers, enhancing the immersive experience.
Living in Washington, DC, has also influenced O’Meara’s writing. “One of the reasons I needed to take time away from writing in my early twenties was to gain world experience,” he explained. His varied environments—from suburban life to major cities—enrich his storytelling, with real-life settings informing the tense situations faced by his characters. The vibrancy of DC, with its mix of people and places, fuels his imagination, providing a wealth of inspiration for his narratives.
O’Meara’s achievements were recognized when Cut From Stone won the Next Generation Indie Book Award for Best Young New Adult Novel. He expressed his surprise at receiving the accolade, particularly as he was preparing to release the second book in the series, Carved From Wood. “For those writing their stories now, I would emphasize developing a strong work ethic,” he advised aspiring authors. “Understand that it will take years to see progress, and appreciate the journey as you work toward your goals.”
As he continues to outline a decade’s worth of stories, Brendan O’Meara embodies the spirit of perseverance and creativity in the literary world. His commitment to his craft and the immersive worlds he creates invite readers to join him on an exciting journey through the Crafting Humanity series, where the boundaries of genre are continually explored and expanded.
