Author Interview with The Ascension Author J.M. Shaw

Welcome to the author interview with J.M. Shaw as she shares about her book, The Ascension, the first book in the Callum Walker series!

Blurb

A hidden war is spilling into our world.Two realms. One veil. A conflict that won’t stay buried.

Callum Walker never asked for power — and he certainly never asked for destiny.

Born with arcane abilities he barely understands, Callum is drawn into a secret magical world of monsters, ancient factions, and uneasy alliances. As his uncontrolled power grows, it attracts the attention of two ruthless brothers locked in a centuries-old war — one a sorcerer, the other a necromancer.

When an ancient prophecy names Callum as the one destined to end the bloodshed, he becomes both weapon and target. Hunted by enemies who want him dead and allies who want to use him, Callum must decide whether he can master his gifts — or be consumed by them.

 The Ascension is a dark fantasy novel featuring reluctant heroes, deadly prophecy, moral tension, and a war that refuses to stay buried.

Ready to learn more about The Ascension and the author behind it? Keep reading for our interview with author J.M. Shaw!

Author Shaw, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with Scribbles about your book, The Ascension!

Q: Author Shaw, you’ve recently given your book and the entire Callum Walker series a revamp with new covers. Why did you decide to give your book The Ascension a new look?

Author Shaw: When I published The Ascension in 2021, I was a novice in the industry, teaching myself as I went, and my confidence and writing skills were still emerging. Despite these challenges, my readers enjoyed my story, and I was proud of my creation. As I continued to write and publish, my understanding of my genre and the publishing world grew, along with my technique and authorial voice.

By the time I reached my fourth novel and began working with a new editor, it became clear how much I had evolved as a writer. It was then that I decided to return to the beginning of my series with a fresh perspective and years of experience behind me. I therefore set about tightening the narrative, clarifying ambiguities, and adding new material. I then went on to re-edit my other novels and design new covers for each of them.

Ultimately, this revamp is a visual reflection of my development as a writer.

That’s fantastic information author Shaw! We’re thrilled to learn of the depths of your growth and see it reflected in your writing style and artistry. We’re sure that our readers will undoubtedly appreciate the freshness that you’re bringing to your books with these re-edits!

Q: How did you decide which cover to use for you book? Were there other covers that you considered before you ultimately settled on this particular one?

Author Shaw: For previous covers, I worked with designers from Fiverr, for cost efficiency, and because I didn’t know where else to look. Instead of creating something unique, the artist gave me a selection of stock images to choose from, which were then combined into a single design based on my input. While I did my best to choose images that reflected my story, I was constrained by the available stock images, and there was minimal creative collaboration. Not fully satisfied with the result, I nevertheless accepted the final covers, not realizing there were better options.

When I decided to re-edit and relaunch The Ascension, I sought out a professional cover artist. The difference was night and day. Not only did I discuss concepts, but the artist also analyzed my manuscript and created several original mock-up images based on my story, brand, and ideas. We discussed fonts and text placement, and she recommended changes I hadn’t even considered. After a few back-and-forth emails and reviewing multiple designs, I chose my current cover because it best captured my vision, blending magic, foreboding, adventure, and intrigue in equal measure.

We have to admit that it is a touch disappointing that your original designers didn’t try more to create more collaborative covers. However, it’s nice to know that that didn’t stop readers from being curious enough about your books to grab them up!

As for the new covers…Author Shaw, we couldn’t agree with you more that when you compare the old covers to the new covers it is like night and day. The differences are so dynamic and we’re definitely loving the new covers. So glad that you decided to re-edit and relaunch, because now we’re sure that you’re going to get even more eyes and attention on your books with these new covers and fresh content.

Q: For readers who have never read The Ascension, what would you say to encourage them to pick up your book?

AuthorShaw: The Ascensionis more than a story about epic battles and supernatural threats. It is an exploration of identity, belonging, and accepting what makes you different. I’ve blended magic, action, and character-driven conflict into Callum’s adventures as a reluctant hero forced to confront a power he never asked for. There are high stakes, moral dilemmas, layered characters, rich worldbuilding, and dark undertones woven throughout my novel. If that resonates with you, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy my series.

Well said author Shaw! That just about perfectly encapsulates the first book in the series!

Fellow readers there is more than meets the eye with this book, and you’re not going to want to pass it up! You’ll be drawn in in the most unexpected ways and with fresh elements there is much to discover and explore!

Q: Author Shaw, there are a lot of readers who have already dove into The Ascension and the following books in the series. You say that there is new content. Would you mind giving readers a little taste of what they’d discover by picking up your book again?

Author Shaw: When I returned to The Ascension, it was with the intention of deepening the reader’s experience without changing the story.

After working closely with my new editor to address any mechanical issues that escaped previous edits, readers will notice a cleaner, more polished narrative. In my first edition, I gave brief mentions of past events that shaped the realm and expanded on relevant history, bridging the gap between past and present-day conflicts. I also clarified key moments and sharpened scene visuals to enhance immersion.

Most importantly, I added new chapters from the perspective of characters who become central later in the series, giving them a voice and offering fresh insight into their past and what drives them.

What remains unchanged is the heart of my story. I have merely strengthened and deepened what was already there.

Sounds like you potentially even paid attention to what some readers were really craving from you concerning your storytelling and addressed it in the best ways! Details in the right places are absolutely crucial to a story and it sounds like you went back in and made sure to give your book(s) just enough freshness to help bring them more alive!

Q: What was your inspiration to write The Ascension, the first book in the Callum Walker series?

Author Shaw: The inspiration for The Ascension developed from a combination of interests, insights, and quiet ponderings.

I’ve often wondered how much truth there is to those stories we dismiss as fairy tales. If they are devoid of truth, then why have they persisted for so long? It was this line of thinking that led me to imagine a secret world of magic and monsters, hidden from our knowledge. The beings therein, who possess arcane essence, have periodically crossed over throughout the ages, thus inspiring humanity’s fables and fantasies of old.

Though my fantasy world contains adventure, magic, monsters, and awkward heroes, The Ascension is, in essence, a story that explores identity, finding a sense of belonging, and the struggle for self-acceptance.

Absolutely fascinating author Shaw! Your quiet ponderings apparently sparked off your imagination beautifully to create quite the dynamic story! We never really thought about fairy tales that way, so it’s interesting to really allow the imagination to go there.

Q: Author Shaw you’ve created quite the unique character when it comes to Callum Walker. He’s an introvert, but he goes out at night to save people from monster attacks. Who or what was the inspiration for his character?

Author Shaw: My protagonist was formed from my interest in Arthurian tales, particularly Merlin. I envisioned a younger, novice Merlin living in our modern world before he mastered his magical abilities. Similarly, I’ve always had a fondness for unlikely heroes rising against adversity, either gifted or cursed, depending on how you look at it, with abilities that set them apart. While that initial character idea helped shape Callum Walker, like many fictional characters, he quickly took on a life of his own, becoming something far removed from my original construct. As for his introversion, that was an unplanned aspect of his personality that mirrors my own. I’ve always believed that the most endearing heroes are those who try to do good while remaining humble despite the power they carry.

So, you took inspiration from King Arthur’s court, and really focused in on Merlin. We can actually see that in Callum now that you point it out to us!

His introverted personality was an unplanned aspect of his personality?! LOL! We would have never guessed to be honest! LOL! The way that his personality is reflected it feels so intentional! LOL! All in all, it all comes together and creates quite the intriguing story.

Q: Early in the book you have Callum track down and battle with a dangerous wolf monster that has been preying on other humans. Why did you decide to start the story off with this particular monster?

Author Shaw: I wanted to begin with immediate tension, and the giant wolf was primal, dangerous, and strikingly out of place within a modern city. Rather than a purely fantastical monster, I introduced a recognizable predatory beast, combining relatable terror with magical realism.

Utilizing the giant wolf to kick start Callum’s story absolutely works in the best way. It grabs the reader and pulls them to the edge of their seat. Deciding to go with a creature that is recognizable and fierce was definitely a smart choice to make for sure. Well done author Shaw!

Q: What was it like writing Ascension? Was it complicated coming up with the various characters and storyline?

Author Shaw: Writing is my hobby turned passion, and The Ascension was just as much an adventure for me as it is for my readers. Rather than plotting, I let my imagination wander, and the story almost felt as if it were writing itself. As for the characters, I’ve spent years people-watching and self-reflecting to understand my place in the world and learn how to blend in. This practice gave me unique insight into differing personality traits, allowing me to give my characters greater depth and individuality.

Author Shaw you truly approached your book with such a unique way and your story, The Ascension reflects it throughout. Letting your imagination lead the way helped you create quite the tale. Utilizing your unique insights from people watching definitely helped in your development of the various characters throughout this story.

Q: How did you decide on what magical abilities Callum would have in The Ascension?

Author Shaw: I started with elemental abilities—fire, lightning, wind—because I’ve always felt that magic and nature have a profound connection. The two are often portrayed as closely connected in the fables and stories I grew up reading, so it felt natural to lean toward the same fundamental forces. Over time, my protagonist’s magical repertoire has expanded beyond elemental magic, but I maintain that nature connection through a system in which magic and living energy are synonymous.

That makes a lot of sense! When you start with the fundamentals it’s hard to go wrong! LOL!

Q: Why did you decide to have the fantasy realm secret from humans?

Author Shaw: That decision was intentional, derived from the belief that there are many things in our known world we have yet to discover. Humans have historically been unreceptive towards the unfamiliar, which is why governments often conceal certain information from the public. If myth-born beings exist, as the abundance of folktales across cultures suggests, then it follows that such entities would find ways to live beyond our awareness.

That makes a lot of sense when you put it that way! Your also absolutely right about history not showing humanity having the best track record when it comes to the “unfamiliar.” So, of course, it makes 100% sense that the magical beings would prefer to stay off the radar as much as possible, and just exist without our awareness.

Q: Callum is a human who holds magic in him, when did he first discover his magical abilities? How old was he?

Author Shaw: At the risk of overexpanding the narrative, I had to limit my exposition on Callum’s past. That said, I indicated throughout that he was born with the ability to use magic, implying his gifts were present in infancy and began to manifest by age two, as witnessed by his parents.

We can understand making the choice to limit getting bogged down in Callum’s backstory and history. So, it makes sense that you touch on just enough of his background to let readers know Callum’s magical history and that he’s had his powers for quite some time.

Q: Callum is quite the prickly character throughout The Ascension. Why did you decide to write him to be so quick to hold a grudge, but have other characters be just as quick to be apologetic and forgiving of him even when he’s in the wrong?

Author Shaw: Having been abandoned as a toddler, it was inevitable that he developed trust issues. On the rare occasions when he chooses to trust, it’s that much more painful when he is betrayed. Being a human with magical powers already makes him different on both sides of the Veil, and while he can hide his power from other humans, he cannot hide his humanity from the realm-born. His loneliness and sense of alienation have driven him into isolation, which makes him seem standoffish and, as you say, prickly. It is not his personality; it is a protective instinct.

As for the realm-born’s readiness to forgive and forget, this is understandable given that he is the prophesied one meant to save them and their realm, and who wants to enrage their promised champion? As Callum proves himself to be a gifted spellcaster, that false respect becomes genuine fear and awe as the series continues.

Okay, it’s understandable that Callum is going to have his guard up when it comes to letting people in and being “friendly.” So, that part definitely makes sense, because he has been hurt in the past and would prefer not to be hurt again. We can all relate at the end of the day.

On one hand, we get what you’re saying about the realm-born not wanting to “anger” their potential savior, but on the other hand…it would have drummed up the drama for him to be not so easily forgiven regardless. It would have elevated the drama in our opinion, by pushing the point of – “Are you going to forsake a realm out of pettiness because someone chose to hold a grudge?”

Q: Author Shaw, you keep the story of Callum’s past secret until the very end of The Ascension. Why did you decide to write the story in this manner as opposed to giving readers a glimpse of this earlier in the story?

Author Shaw: I wanted to create a sense of mystery between the reader and the protagonist. The reader can only know what Callum knows, and since he is unaware of what transpired in his earlier childhood and why he was abandoned, it seemed natural to keep my audience in the dark. While I dropped hints throughout the story, revealing too much too early would take away from the eventual reveal. By unveiling the truth at the end of his journey, I’m offering both Callum and my readers a sense of closure in this novel, answering one question while leaving the larger mystery to be resolved in later novels.

Okay! That makes a lot of sense to hold the mystery, especially knowing that we know what Callum knows. So, of course, that means that we’re all in the same boat as him. So, that explanation absolutely works because he never knew the truth about why his life turned out the way that it did.

Q: Author Shaw, what was your inspiration for the two warring brothers? Did you ever consider having one be “good” versus both of them being evil?

Author Shaw: No, that thought never occurred to me, mainly because if I made one of the brothers good, the conflict would not be as widespread and epic. By having Desmond and Kincaid both striving for dominion over the magical realm, each for their own reasons, I was able to heighten the stakes. This also placed Callum at the centre of a far-reaching conflict rather than a one-sided dispute.

This not only reduced the number of Callum’s potential allies but also turned otherwise peaceable realm-born into self-serving threats he must avoid, all while being hunted by both brothers. Ultimately, it aligned with my desire to create a high-stakes adventure with multiple threats, while maximizing tension by removing any certainty of help, and reinforcing Callum’s emotional isolation and mistrust.

That’s a perfect explanation! You’re so right in that if you had made one brother good, it would have definitely shifted the dynamics of the story. This would have halved the drama instead of amping it up which was the ultimate goal based on the storyline.

Callum has to overcome a lot and if one brother had been good, it would have offered an ally, or at least created the expectation of one being created. Writing The Ascension the way that you do definitely heightened the stakes, because Callum has to watch his back from all sides really. So by choosing to push the story towards more of a high-stakes drama, it really works.

Q: Was there any character in The Ascension who really challenged you in their creation? If so, who specifically?

Author Shaw: Desmond and Kincaid were both difficult to write. It’s easy to empathize with a protagonist, since they often embody those qualities we strive to internalize, but tapping into my inner villain was a unique challenge. Most of us are taught from an early age to be kind, understanding, and patient. These characters, however, forced me to shift my perspective, leading me into unfamiliar territory as I developed their personalities, motivations, and beliefs through a self-serving lens.

Hmmm…we can understand that. Accessing your inner villain isn’t always the easiest thing for a lot of us. Writing a good guy is typically easier, because like you said we look for the goodness and amplify it. While writing that villain requires you to reach deep into the darkness and pull out the parts that most try to lock away.

While it may not have been the easiest thing for you to do, we think that you still managed to pull it off rather successfully all in all.

Q: As you were writing The Ascension, did you know from the beginning that this book was going to be the first in a series? Or did it come to you the more you wrote?

Author Shaw: When I wrote The Ascension, I had no intention of turning it into a series. It wasn’t until halfway through my first novel that I was compelled to continue the journey with a second book, and by the time I reached that novel’s midpoint, I knew there would be a third. I put so much time and energy into my creative work that I wanted to see the story through.

It appears that some of the best series coming out lately are the ones that authors had no intention originally of it being a series! LOL! While The Ascension didn’t originally naturally drive us to want to continue the series, the mystery element works to pique the interest and desire to pick up the next book.

Q: Ascension is the beginning of the Callum Walker series. How many books can readers expect to discover in this series as Callum’s story unfolds?

Author Shaw: As I’m writing the fifth novel and planning the sixth, I can confirm the series is far from over. I’m aiming for nine to ten books, though it could grow to twelve.

You’re aiming for nine to ten books, but it could be more?! Oh wow! That is absolutely exciting news! That is definitely something for our readers to be looking forward to!

Q: What inspired you to write The Ascension as a supernatural fantasy novel?

Author Shaw: I wanted to do something a bit different, and to me, that meant blending magic with the supernatural. It also aligned with my protagonist’s character arc, and how his past leads into the future I have planned for him.

Well, the story definitely benefits from this decision as it allows your story to have something unique. This particular element of the supernatural blending with fantasy helps it stand out from others in the fantasy genre.

Q: Have you ever considered writing spin-off stories for some of the “minor” characters in the Callum Walker series? If so, who? If not, why not?

Author Shaw: Absolutely. In fact, I have a few characters whose backstories I’d like to explore. Beyond that, I’ve considered future characters who will carry the story forward once Callum’s journey is over. I feel deeply connected to my creative work, and there is so much more I wish to delve into. My protagonist’s path, however inspiring, has its limits. To delve deeper into the world I’ve created, I will need to experience it through another lead character.

How exciting to know that you’re exploring expanding the world of your characters by giving some of them spin-offs! There are definitely some that we’re hoping get spin-offs, so it will be interesting to see who you chose and learn why.

We’re sure that it will be sad to say good-bye to Callum when his story eventually ends, but knowing that it will still continue with others carrying the torch.

Q: Author Shaw, if you could recommend to our readers a book to read after The Ascension, what would it be and why?

Author Shaw: I would highly recommend Joe Abercrombie’s The Devils because it challenges the idea that society’s notions of good and evil are accurate, and appearances can be deceiving. It’s an idea that resonates with my struggle to look beyond the façades people build for the world, where the truth of who they are is often concealed.

Sounds like quite the intriguing book to check out. We’ll definitely add it to our own list to check out for sure!

Q: Is there anything that you’re currently working on for readers to look forward to?

Author Shaw: I’m currently working on the fifth book in the Callum Walker series and planning the sixth, so there’s plenty more to come. I also have several story ideas developing in the background that I’m excited to dive into.

Sounds like readers have a lot to look forward to knowing that book 5 is just around the corner! So, now is the perfect time fellow readers to dive into this series if you haven’t already started it. Or if you have to make sure that you’re all caught up on the books that are currently available so that when book 5 comes out you can dive right in!

Q: Is there anything that you’d like to share with our readers before you go?

Author Shaw: I pack my novels with plenty of action and adventure, while also layering in meaningful messages—self-acceptance, the importance of family and friends, trusting those we love, and choosing the right path, even when it’s difficult. I’m a firm believer in good over evil because I believe humanity is not a lost cause, and that goodness still exists. I have a soft spot for the underdog hero, not because it’s popular, but because I’m an underdog myself and can empathize with the downtrodden. I don’t shy away from discussions of mental health issues—grief, anxiety, self-doubt. They are challenges far too many face, and I hope that lending my voice can help those facing them alone. I create fictional characters that are far from perfect because we are far from perfect, and that’s okay. Though my protagonists live in a fantasy world, their problems are very real. We cannot overcome our struggles if we don’t talk about them. That’s why I write.

Author J.M. Shaw we appreciate you taking the time to share with us here at Scribbles and our readers about your book, The Ascension, Book 1 in the Callum Walker series. We look forward to reading more of your work in the future! Thank you so much for your time today!

We enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity to read and review The Ascension, and you can check out the review here.

About the Author:

J. M. Shaw is a Canadian author of fantasy fiction who lives in Alberta with her husband and two young children. She’s been writing since childhood, building worlds from raw imagination and quiet observation, but it took years before she found the courage to share them. For Shaw, storytelling has always been more than a passion. It’s a compass. A sanctuary. A way to make sense of the chaos.

In 2019, Shaw was diagnosed with autism and ADHD, a turning point that brought clarity to a lifetime of feeling “too much” or “too different.” Her intense focus, emotional depth, and ability to live inside fictional worlds became not flaws but the superpowers of a neurodivergent mind. These qualities shape her stories, infusing them with realism, heart, and meaning, and giving her the courage to finally share her creative works. Her worlds may be fantastical, but her characters—flawed, searching, and deeply human—resonate on a personal level.

When she’s not writing, Shaw enjoys connecting with nature, curling up with a good book, and dreaming up new worlds. She also finds joy in encouraging young writers to pursue their own passions.

For more information: www.jmshawauthor.com