An Interview with Maria V. Snyder
Interview conducted c. early 2010s
Introduction
Maria V. Snyder is a New York Times bestselling author best known for the Study series, including Poison Study, Magic Study, and Fire Study. Her work blends fantasy and science fiction with strong character focus, often centering on resilient protagonists navigating high-stakes moral and physical challenges.
This interview was conducted during a period when Snyder was reflecting on the creative instincts and persistence that shaped her career. The conversation explores idea generation, discovery-driven storytelling, character motivation, and the balance between intuition and revision in long-form fiction.
Snyder’s responses emphasize experiential input, emotional investment, and perseverance. Her approach to storytelling privileges character agency and forward motion, with theme and meaning emerging organically through the writing process.
This interview is preserved as part of the Better Storytelling Archive, documenting the voices and working methods of contemporary genre creators.
MariaVSnyder_Interview
The Interview
Life as a Writer
How did you get into writing?
Boredom at work. During slow periods, I started jotting down stories that had been swirling around in my head.
When did you first realize that you have what it takes to be a writer?
After my first novel, Poison Study, sold. Before that, every book felt like a leap of faith. Even now, when I get stuck, I remind myself that I’ve done it before.
Premise
Where do you get your ideas from?
Everywhere. Everything I do is fodder for writing—experiences, people, classes, books, movies, and conversations. I have plenty of ideas; time is the real limitation.
How do you develop your ideas into a story?
I start with a character in a bad situation, determine what they want most, and then decide who or what will get in their way. The rest I discover as I write.
Genre
What kind of stories do you enjoy working with?
Fantasy and science fiction for both adults and young adults. My stories usually feature strong female protagonists, action, adventure, and a touch of romance.
What genres would you like to explore in the future?
Mystery, romantic suspense, and children’s picture books.
Structure
Do you work from an outline?
No. I’m a pure seat-of-the-pants writer.
Plot
How do you build your story?
I give protagonists and antagonists goals and place obstacles in their paths. How they respond—and the consequences of those responses—determine the story.
Character
For you, what makes a great hero?
Someone willing to make sacrifices for others.
If one of your characters were to describe you, what would they say?
Evil and sadistic. My characters endure danger, betrayal, and difficult choices. I imagine they’re not fond of me.
Setting
How much time do you spend researching the setting for your stories?
For fantasy, not much—I build worlds from imagination. For science-based stories, especially enclosed or engineered environments, I research enough to ensure plausibility.
What settings would you like to explore in the future?
An inner-city environment and stories set in space.
Theme
Do you like to know the purpose of your story before you sit down to write it?
No. I often don’t discover the purpose until the book is finished—or reread several times.
Dialogue
Do you have any favorite lines from your stories?
Several from Poison Study, particularly moments where humor and danger intersect.
Writing Process
Do you have a routine?
I write late at night, usually from 10 p.m. until early morning, in a home office. I listen to music while I work.
How do you deal with writer’s block?
I take breaks, go for walks or showers, and talk through problems with my agent. Brainstorming aloud often unlocks the next step.
Story Development
How do you go about fixing a story?
I reflect on what feels wrong and talk through issues with my agent or editor until the solution becomes clear.
How do you know when to stop?
Endings are instinctual. Revisions stop when deadlines arrive. Perfection is unattainable, and at some point, the work must move forward.
Words of Advice
What words of advice would you give to new writers?
Persistence. Learn the craft and the business. Seek feedback. Read widely and write often. And don’t give up.
Final Thoughts
What’s the best thing you’ve ever written?
A story that inspired a reader to choose life. No award can equal that.
What are you working on now?
Revisions on a novel in the Healer series, with future installments underway.
Closing
This interview captures Maria V. Snyder’s emphasis on resilience, discovery, and emotional connection as central elements of storytelling. Her reflections highlight writing as both craft and commitment—shaped by persistence, empathy, and trust in the creative process.
Presented here as part of the Better Storytelling Archive, this conversation preserves a voice defined by character-driven narrative and sustained dedication to the work.