Exploring the Mystical World of M. Ainihi
Discover how real-world myths inspire the enchanting realms of Sumir
M. Ainihi discusses her creative process, character development, thematic exploration, and upcoming short stories, enriching the narrative of her fantasy series set in the mystical world of Sumir.
An independent author M. Ainihi, known for her captivating fantasy and horror novels, recently shared insights into her creative process and upcoming projects in an interview with Reader’s House magazine. Ainihi, who resides in the Chicagoland area with her family, has crafted a unique literary universe that draws readers into the mystical world of Sumir, as depicted in her “The Blood Inheritance Novels Series.”
Ainihi’s journey into the world of Sumir began with her fascination with real-world myths and legends, particularly those surrounding Jinn and Genies. This interest was sparked by a book she received, “Legends of the Fire Spirits: Jinn and Genies from Arabia to Zanzibar” by Robert Lebling. Inspired by these tales, Ainihi began to weave her own stories around the fictional world of Sumir, which serves as the backdrop for her series. The mythology of Jinn became a central focus, providing a rich foundation for the series’ narrative.
Central to the series is the character Amanda Garrett, who undergoes significant growth and faces numerous challenges as she navigates her inherited powers. Ainihi describes herself as an “emotional writer,” emphasizing the importance of tapping into her characters’ emotions to create believable and relatable situations. This approach is particularly evident in Amanda’s journey, as she evolves and adapts to the burdens and responsibilities that come with her powers.
The themes of identity, sacrifice, and destiny are intricately woven into the series, especially in the volumes “Lost” and “Endow.” Ainihi explains that these themes emerged organically as she allowed her characters to lead the narrative. She aimed to balance the fantastical elements of the story with the everyday issues faced by young adults, creating a relatable and engaging experience for readers. The series also explores individuality through its three equally compelling female protagonists, each with distinct beliefs and ideas.
In addition to her storytelling, Ainihi has integrated illustrations and special edition features into her work, enhancing the reading experience. She collaborates with freelance artists to create visual elements that complement the narrative, bridging the gap between her vision and the reader’s imagination. This collaboration involves multiple stages, from providing the artist with a sense of the story to receiving valuable feedback and preliminary sketches. Ainihi finds this process rewarding, as it brings her words to life and evokes emotions in a more direct way than words alone.
M. Ainihi captivates readers with her imaginative storytelling, creating a richly detailed fantasy world that enchants and inspires adventure.
Looking to the future, Ainihi is excited about her upcoming short story collection set in the expansive universe of Sumir. This collection will delve into the backstories of smaller characters, offering readers a deeper understanding of the series’ intricate tapestry. Ainihi’s first short story collection, “The Warning Signs: Tales Of Horror and Dark Fantasy,” published in 2021, included tales from Sumir that explored the mythology and backstory of the series’ nemesis, Bavmordia.
Through her eloquent storytelling and imaginative world-building, M. Ainihi invites readers to embark on a journey through the fantastical realms of Sumir. Her work promises adventure and discovery on every page, captivating audiences with its rich narrative and compelling characters. As Ainihi continues to expand her literary universe, readers can look forward to even more enchanting tales from the world of Sumir.
