Interview with Linda Patricia Cleary, Author of The Dreamer

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Dreamer (The Black Stone Cycle Book 1)?

I’ve always been highly interested in dreams, past lives, and parallel universes. I like to believe it’s all connected. Dreams play a big part in most of my stories. I wanted to write a series with a vast, complex timeline, exploring how one person and their choices could impact an entire reality, because we actually do that every day. I have been working on this series for 17 years, so it’s pretty planned out!

I wanted to write a sci-fi saga that was easy to read and accessible to a broad audience. It makes me sad that so many people are intimidated by science fiction. It can get too heady or science-based, taking away from the emotional journeys. I wanted to write about teens who happened to be in space. I wanted to be inclusive and normalize the marginalized. I wanted the fate of the galaxy to rest on a group of misfits who end up saving it, but I also wanted them to be stressed out about their first kiss, deal with jealousy, and be annoyed with each other.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Dreamer (The Black Stone Cycle Book 1), what would they be?

I can’t think of any songs in particular, but I did listen to Sigur Rós A LOT while writing this book, and it would be a dream if this ever became a TV show and they did the soundtrack!

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Science fiction, of course. I also love fantasy, paranormal and supernatural fiction, speculative, and literary fiction. I love anything weird and wild. I tend to like positive stories with messy characters who find their family, purpose, and belonging in the universe.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Lots of indie author books! I’m going to start doing super short reviews on TikTok, and it’s one of my goals for 2026 to read more indie author stories. The more popular books include Dungeon Crawler Carl, All Systems Red, and, finally, finish reading Red Rising!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Oh, that’s a hard question. I really love the action scenes. I love the humor and intensity that emerges from those scenes. There are quite a few in my books.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I do write with a pocket/worry stone or a crystal next to me that I can hold and touch. I’m a little bit of a crystal nerd. My series DOES revolve around a sentient stone after all! Currently, I have a bumblebee jasper next to me, known for boosting joy, confidence, creativity, and motivation.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

“Fear is the mind killer” from Frank Herbert’s Dune is one of my favorite quotes that I live by. I also believe in the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, which emphasizes finding purpose rather than happiness because it offers a deeper fulfillment. I think it’s so true! It’s not realistic to attempt to sustain happiness. We should embrace all emotions and find our purpose.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I hope readers remember that The Dreamer isn’t really about destiny. It’s about choice. Who you choose to become, who you choose to trust, and who you choose to call family. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and follow your heart.

Linda Patricia Cleary is the author of the new book The Dreamer (The Black Stone Cycle Book 1)

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