Fran Comesanas Explores Shadows and Redemption in Fantasy Fiction
Fran Comesanas, author of Saint Peter’s Gate, crafts powerful narratives inspired by the haunting beauty of New York’s Hudson Valley.
Redefining the Boundaries of Fantasy Fiction
Fran Comesanas delves into his creative process, discussing themes of redemption, power, and morality while reflecting on how his Hudson Valley surroundings influence his captivating fantasy narratives.
Fran Comesanas, an acclaimed author residing in the scenic Hudson Valley, has made a remarkable impact on the world of fantasy literature. His debut novel, Saint Peter’s Gate: Path of Darkness, weaves a complex narrative filled with themes of power, redemption, and the eternal battle between light and darkness. With gripping characters and a thought-provoking storyline, Comesanas has earned recognition as one of the most promising voices in contemporary fantasy fiction.
In an interview with Reader’s House, Comesanas offered a glimpse into his creative process, discussing how his environment, inspirations, and personal challenges shape his storytelling.
The novel’s protagonist, Ember, struggles with centuries of bitterness and guilt, wrestling with her dark past. Comesanas explained that making Ember relatable required a nuanced approach. “Fantasy characters need something more,” he shared. “She carries resentment for two centuries, boiling over into vengeance and guilt. On her journey, I hope readers see that the past doesn’t define us, despite external forces in our lives.”
“Fran Comesanas masterfully blends gripping characters, complex plots, and profound themes, cementing his place among today’s top fantasy authors.”
In Saint Peter’s Gate, Comesanas reimagines Heaven, Hell, and Earth, introducing a Purgatory teeming with challenges. This environment reflects a harsh, almost primal struggle for redemption. “The image of Saint Peter’s Gate in traditional religion felt too simple,” Comesanas noted. “I wanted to explore what the entrance to Heaven would really be like given the sheer numbers of deaths each day. Survival, redemption, and judgment form the heart of this complex, dark landscape.”
Comesanas emphasized the importance of relatable characters—even the villains—and tight plot construction. “Whether it’s the hero or the villain, characters need to resonate with readers,” he said. “Even minor characters must leave an impact. With so many characters, it’s easy to lose the plot, so I work hard to keep the focus sharp and the twists compelling.”
Living in Rhinebeck, New York, Comesanas draws inspiration from the Hudson Valley’s rich, often haunting history. “There’s a stretch of land near the Hudson River that I used as a backdrop in the third book of the series,” he revealed. “The history here isn’t always happy, and that darkness seeps into my work.”
The novel’s central conflict—a rogue demon attempting to seize control of Saint Peter’s Gate—mirrors real-world struggles with power and morality. “You see these struggles everywhere,” Comesanas observed. “Often, those who sugarcoat themselves are hiding decayed motivations. Ultimately, we all have to live with our decisions.”
Despite the acclaim for Saint Peter’s Gate, Comesanas continues to face the challenges of balancing his writing with the demands of publishing. “Receiving positive feedback was exciting and validating,” he said. “But I’ve struggled to balance marketing with writing. Writing is far more enjoyable, and I’m still working on finding that equilibrium.”
Currently, Comesanas is exploring new genres, having completed a suspense/action novel while seeking representation for traditional publishing. His journey serves as a testament to his dedication to storytelling and his ability to evolve as an author.
Fran Comesanas continues to redefine the boundaries of fantasy fiction, offering readers an unforgettable exploration of the human psyche and the eternal dance between light and shadow.
