DB: I learned about your books from a recent magazine article talking about Ruin Mist, the fantasy world you created. What do you say to those who are calling you the Tolkien for the new millennium?

RS: I'm not a Tolkien Scholar. I don't know enough about Tolkien the man to answer that. The epic story and history in his books changed my life—and that's what I've always said. I really focus on writing what moves me.

DB: Okay, for the record. I see from your resume that you worked in Intelligence in the military. You were a linguist, and Tolkien was as well. You are a distinguished combat veteran whose experiences clearly influence your work. How did that shape your writing?

RS: Well, first—just to clarify—Tolkien was brilliant with language, and while I studied several languages (Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, Russian), my background in intelligence and military service exposed me to real-world cultures and histories. That depth of experience naturally seeped into the world of Ruin Mist.

DB: I see. And you mentioned a Slavic influence as well?

RS: Absolutely. My step-father is Polish-Hungarian, and I’ve borrowed many words and cultural nuances from Slavic languages—this even influences the ancient Elvish in Ruin Mist. For example, some of the words of power in the series have a distinctly Slavic feel.

DB: Fascinating. And have you worked on Ruin Mist continuously since the '80s?

RS: Not continuously—the work was on and off. I began writing Ruin Mist in 1986 while stationed in Japan, then later in Germany, and of course the Gulf War shifted many priorities. It’s been a journey both personally and creatively.

DB: It sounds like your military and educational experiences have played a huge role in shaping your work.

RS: They have indeed. Balancing military service with academic pursuits helped me refine my understanding of history and culture, which is reflected in the multiverse of Ruin Mist.

DB: Thanks for the insight. It’s refreshing to hear you speak so candidly about your influences.