Author: mbarkersimpsonblog

  • Character Interview: Meet Saffron Jenkins from the Outland!

    Character Interview: Saffron – Artist, Creator, Outlander

    In our continuing Behind the Worlds Apart series, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Saffron—a Creator, traveller, and one of the quiet forces driving The Outland. Thoughtful, tenacious, and full of surprises, Saffron opens up about her powers, her past, and what it means to be born between worlds.

    Q: Saffron, tell us—who are you, really?

    I’m an artist—both in temperament and in ability. The latter comes from the fact that I’m what’s known as a Creator. I’m not sure how familiar you are with the different modes of travel, but in the multiverse, we give them names to keep track.

    A Creator is someone who can capture a moment—an image, a scene—and bring it to life. It’s not like stepping into a painting, though that would be cool. We use equipment that opens a kind of portal in time, so that memory or moment can be accessed. But it doesn’t go beyond that. It’s not infinite.

    Anyway, I’m rambling. Where was I? Oh—artist. I’m an introvert. That doesn’t mean I don’t like people—I do. I’d like to think I’m versatile, maybe even approachable. I’m also a pretty good judge of character. Comes in handy.

    Q: What was your first experience with the multiverse like?

    Funny you ask, because I didn’t even know I was a traveller at first. I hit puberty, and suddenly weird things started happening. I’d fall into these trances while staring at my own artwork, and next thing I knew, I was inside the scene I’d drawn.

    It took time to understand what that meant. My universe isn’t the most advanced—AI and robotics, yes, but we’re behind in other ways. When I met the IDOLS (Interdimensional Officers of the Law), they helped me understand what I was and gave me the tools to use my gift properly.

    My dad was the traveller. My mum wasn’t. That makes me an Outlander—born between worlds. It’s been a journey. Disorienting, sure. But now I’m part of the Network, a group of like-minded travellers across the multiverse. They’ve become my support system.

    Q: Do you ever think about other versions of yourself?

    Absolutely. Some of my fondest memories with my mum are of us talking about that exact thing—what our alternates might be like. Maybe there’s a version of me out there who’s a total extrovert, partying and getting into trouble. Or a bad apple—I mean, statistically, one of us has to be.

    It’s interesting, because Observers—those who can see into other worlds through reflective surfaces—kind of live vicariously through their other selves. I think that would be fascinating… and maybe a little dangerous.

    Q: Who do you trust the most?

    MJ. She’s my best friend. We don’t come from the same universe, but we share everything else. We talk every day, thanks to the Network. We piggyback on the signal so we can video chat, and her tech is more advanced, so when we’re together, her equipment creates holographic projections. It feels like I’m actually there.

    I probably could upgrade my own tech… especially after everything I’ve learned about AI lately. Maybe it’s time. Our conversations might never be the same again!

    And then there’s Hunter. We’ve only just met, technically. But sometimes you just know. You meet someone and they immediately feel like one of your people. No explanation needed. That’s how it was with him. Scary, but real.

    Q: Your powers—do you see them as a gift or a curse?

    A blessing. Mostly.

    There’s always a cost to power. Mine came in the form of having to share my mind with a killer. I had to see through his eyes, feel what he felt, watch helplessly as he took lives. I won’t say more—spoilers—but yeah. That kind of thing leaves a mark.

    Q: What’s something you regret?

    I don’t believe in regrets. I almost said, “not being able to save the victims,” but the truth is… that was never in my control. And regret is only useful if you could have chosen differently.

    If I’d hidden. If I’d chosen not to act. Then I’d have something to regret.

    Q: Final question—what do you want readers to know about you before they meet you in The Outland?

    Don’t mistake quiet for weak. I’m like a dog with a bone—once I sink my teeth into something, I don’t let go.

    Something the killer probably should have known… before he picked me.

    Want to know more about Saffron—and what’s really happening in the Continuum? The Outland releases 31 July 2025. Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive sneak peeks, giveaways, and character content.

    Thanks for stopping by

    Mel

  • Author Interview – The Outland

    Available 31 July 2025

    Embracing her role as the Fifth Watcher, Audrey Montgomery has made a home in the Outland. As the bridge between the Continuum and those who live within it, her mission is clear: identify and protect Outlanders, those born between worlds.

    When Saffron Jenkins, a gifted Outlander, begins experiencing disturbing mental intrusions, it soon becomes clear she’s being hunted—not in the physical world, but through Borrowing, a dangerous process that allows a killer to slip into her mind.

    Revealing just enough to torment her, but never enough to be caught, the predator plays a chilling game of cat and mouse. As the connection deepens, Saffron must work with Audrey, Hunter—Audrey’s second-in-command—and her own underground network to unravel a conspiracy that threatens not only her sanity, but the safety of the entire Continuum.

    1. What inspired the concept of your multiverse and characters like the Watchers or Resonators?

    The idea sparked during an ordinary day out with a friend. We were walking through a town centre when I caught our reflections in a shop window. In that moment, everything—the people passing by, the colours, the chaos and beauty of the world—was mirrored back at us.

    That reflection made me wonder: What if this wasn’t just a mirror? What if it was a window into another version of this place?

    Would their town look the same? Would people walk the same streets, make the same choices? Or would something—subtle or startling—be different?

    Those questions kept echoing in my mind, and from them, the first Observer was born: a traveller of the multiverse who can see into other realities using reflective surfaces.

    2. How does your universe explore identity through alternates and consciousness?

    To be honest, even though I play around with parallel universe theory and alternates, it’s not really about characters bumping into other versions of themselves—except for Audrey Montgomery, who’s met a few!

    It’s more about characters discovering who they are by being tested. Identity in my universe comes out through the journey—the challenges they face, the relationships they form, and what they learn about themselves along the way.

    Take Audrey, for example. In the first book, she meets two different versions of a brother she doesn’t have in her home universe—she’s an only child there. The impact of that loss and the deep, immediate connection she feels to Lucas really shape her and how she sees the world.

    As for consciousness, that comes into play with a group of travellers known as Borrowers. They’re able to pair their consciousness, usually with an alternate version of themselves in another universe, although that’s not always necessary. Some can link with any mind, as long as there’s some kind of connection between them.

    It must be a terrifying thing, having someone else inside your head, knowing they can see what you see and feel what you feel. Even for experienced travellers who know that other worlds exist, such a profound invasion of self is unsettling. It’s a concept I’m looking forward to exploring even more as the series goes on.

    3. What are Watchers, Weavers, or Observers—and how do their powers shape the narrative?

    There are lots of ways to travel in my universe, and not all of them are physical. Observers travel by using reflective surfaces—they slip through the multiverse in this way (I discussed them earlier).

    Weavers move through a dreamscape. They explore other universes while in a sleep-state, though usually, they can’t interact with the people they meet there—more like watching echoes or memories than stepping into a scene.

    Watchers are different again. You could say they’re like guardians of the multiverse—ancient beings woven into the very fabric of the Continuum. They can take on physical form, but that form is just a representation. There were originally four Watchers, each representing a strand of the Continuum. But Audrey Montgomery ascended to that role, making five. She acts as a bridge, a kind of frontline guardian. And trust me, that changes everything.

    4. How do you keep track of different universes, timelines, or character arcs?

    Scrivener! It’s a brilliant program and helps me keep everything organized. I know other writers use things like Miro boards or Notion, but Scrivener works for me.

    That said, I used to be completely analogue—scribbles in a physical file, a giant whiteboard covered in maps, images, notes… chaos, but creative chaos. World-building tends to take over my space (and sometimes my life)!

    5. Do you start with characters or concepts first—and why?

    Usually, the characters. Even when I have the concept, like with Worlds Apart, the character starts to shape themselves in my head and almost begins telling the story on their own.

    I’ve got so many characters living up there. I don’t do much in the way of rigid planning—the story unfolds through them. I’m just the conduit.

    6. What books, shows, or creators have influenced your work the most?

    I read widely and watch just about everything—sci-fi, drama, thrillers, fantasy. I love getting lost in someone else’s story. I think my biggest influences come from all over, really. I enjoy flipping ideas on their heads and seeing how far they can stretch. I’m drawn to the unexpected.

    7. What can new readers expect from your story in terms of tone, pace, and themes?

    Fast-paced and action-packed! When I was younger, I used to read my stories aloud to my dad, and he’d always laugh because if something catastrophic could happen, I made sure it did—think San Andreas on steroids!

    I’ve slightly toned that down, but at their core, my stories are about connection. About people working together, fighting to do what’s right, and finding strength in each other. I also write strong women, because I come from a long line of them—and that strength always finds its way into the page.

    8. If you could spend a day with one of your characters, who would it be and why?

    This might surprise some readers, but I’d probably choose Taylor—and we still don’t know her last name (not even me).

    She’s an enigma. At the centre of the Continuum is the Hub—a kind of interdimensional crossroads and the base for the IDOLS (Interdimensional Officers of the Law). Taylor commands the IDOLS. She’s sharp, ruthless, runs the Hub with an iron fist… and I want to know what makes her tick. When the time’s right, I’ll find out.

    9. How can readers connect with you or dive deeper into your universe?

    I love hearing from readers! You can connect with me in all the usual places (listed at the end of the interview). I’ll also be releasing a Guide to the Continuum very soon on the website, so if you’re new to this world, that’s a great place to start.

    10. What’s coming next in your series or world—and how can fans stay updated?

    Next up: another season of my Labno & Carter podcast. After that, I’m diving back into the Collective series. Book 4 is Kayde’s story, and I’m eager to share it.

    If you want sneak peeks, cover reveals, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes stuff, the best way to stay in the loop is to join my newsletter.

  • Character Interview: Meet Hunter Lee from The Outland!

    With a background as an IDOL (Interdimensional Officer of the Law), Hunter isn’t one to chase the spotlight. He prefers precision over politics, and action over words. But behind the tactical skill and deadly calm lies a man shaped by loss, loyalty, and the growing tension between duty and desire.

    As danger looms across realities and a killer begins to hunt one of their own, Hunter finds himself walking a line he swore he’d never cross.

    Today, he’s agreed—reluctantly—to answer a few questions. Just don’t expect small talk.

    Q: Tell us a bit about yourself. What’s your role, or what do you do, in your home reality?
    Hunter: I’m an IDOL—an Interdimensional Officer of the Law. I consider my home reality to be the Outland, even though I wasn’t born here. I’ve taken on a new role as second-in-command to Audrey Montgomery.

    Q: What’s it like working under Audrey? Tense? Inspirational? A test of your patience?
    Hunter: A test of my patience? That’s an odd one, given you know Audrey. She’s the most grounded person I’ve ever met. She’s my superior, yes, but we’re partners first—and I value that role. It was a shock when she became a Watcher. It caused a shift I didn’t know I was ready for.

    Pause.

    She’s inspirational, for sure. She has this way about her—this quiet authority that doesn’t come from throwing her weight around, but from seeing into the heart of people. Her instincts are second to none.

    Q: There’s a lot to unpick there. Let’s start with the Watchers. What are they really?
    Hunter: That’s a tough one, because it depends on your perspective. To some, they’re like gods—ancient beings woven into the fabric of time and space. For me, especially since Audrey joined them, they’re the force that keeps the system running. They watch over people—Travellers and non-Travellers alike.

    Q: Just for clarification, how does Audrey fit into that structure?
    Hunter: She’s the physical link—the bridge between the system and everyone who exists within it. The continuum has four main strands—think of a quadruple helix. There were originally four Watchers, one per strand.

    Some say the continuum was ready for change. Audrey was born—and so was the Outland. Her ascension brought about a new kind of Watcher. More hands-on. More human.

    Q: What was your first encounter with the idea of other realities? Was it something you always knew about, or a shocking revelation?
    Hunter: A shock. Definitely. It sounds trite to say I always knew I was different—especially because my early experiences weren’t exactly typical. I lost my mum when I was three. She was a non-Traveller. The man responsible for my conception was a Shifter—and I inherited the ability.

    Q: Let’s step back from the heavy for a second. Can you describe what a Shifter is, and what it feels like?
    Hunter: My first time was at thirteen. I was sitting in a park, wishing I could be somewhere else. I imagined a different version of that same park—different people, people who didn’t know me.

    Pause. A smile.

    My body got so hot, it felt like standing under the sun—only the heat came from below. It hurt, but it passed. The world spun and reshaped itself. I don’t remember being afraid.

    It took a while to realise I was somewhere else. Same park. Different reality. More of everything—buildings, colour, life. It was the same, but not.

    Q: So that was your first travel. You physically shifted.
    Hunter: Right. There are different types of Travellers, but Shifters are the only ones who can move through realities at will. Others—like Resonators—lock onto emotional frequencies. But for us, it’s instinct.

    Q: Biggest misconception non-Travellers have about the multiverse?
    Hunter: Most of them don’t even know the continuum exists—and that’s intentional. You only have to look at the Resistance to understand why. Most of them are non-Travellers who learned the truth and became obsessed with tearing it all down.

    Q: It sounds like you’ve dealt with the Resistance before.
    Hunter: More than my share. Audrey’s a target—she’s the only Watcher they can reach. If they got their hands on her power, it would be catastrophic.

    Not that they’ll ever get close. They’ve got no idea what she’s capable of—or how many people would lay down their lives to protect her.

    Q: That’s a lot for one person to carry.
    Hunter: She can handle it.

    Q: You’ve been described as strategic, relentless, and difficult to read. Fair assessment?
    Hunter: I’m an IDOL.

    Q: That doesn’t entirely answer the question. Tell us about the programme. What kind of person makes the cut—and why were you one of them?
    Hunter: Any Shifter can apply, but most don’t make it through. The programme is brutal—psychological, physical, strategic. You’re pushed to your limits from day one. You need focus. Drive. Discipline.

    From the moment I learned about it, I knew it was where I belonged. I’ve been preparing since I was sixteen.

    Q: If you weren’t an IDOL—what would you be?
    Hunter: I wouldn’t have accepted anything else. This was it. It’s all I’ve ever wanted—to serve and protect.

    Q: Let’s end with a few personal questions. Name one thing you can’t live without, regardless of the reality.
    Hunter: Obvious answer? The AegisLink—Al, as we call it. Full comms and access to everything I need on the ground.

    Q: And the less obvious answer?
    Grins.

    Hunter: Connection. Not in the team-building sense. I mean someone who sees you—really sees you—and gives a damn anyway. I used to think I didn’t need that. Now I know better.

    Q: Favourite way to unwind after a long day?
    Hunter: Being outdoors. We’ve got this garden space in the Outland—every zone has a different feel. I go there to clear my head. Run. Think. Just breathe.

    Q: Do you have any skills that might surprise people?
    Hunter: I like fixing things—mostly old tech. The Resistance left a lot behind. Dangerous, unreliable stuff. I like to take it apart and rework it. Make it useful again.

    Q: If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
    Hunter: Egg tarts. All day, every day. Ann—Audrey’s mum—makes them. They taste like sunshine wrapped in flaky pastry. It’s her way of taking care of her people.

    Throws a hand in the air.

    That’s what I should have said—thing I can’t live without. Those tarts.

    Q: It sounds like you have a good relationship with Ann.
    Hunter: She’s the best. As soon as I landed in the Outland, I knew I’d found my place. Ann made it a home. Somewhere safe. Somewhere real.

    Q: Are you someone who trusts easily?
    Hunter: No. Not even a little. But Ann got through. So did Audrey. They’re alike, in some ways. People just gravitate to them.

    Q: What’s next for you, Hunter?
    Hunter: That sounds like a spoiler. Let’s just say—more change is coming, and I’m looking forward to it.

    Q: Thanks for answering our questions.

    And that’s a wrap on our time with Hunter—soldier, protector, and reluctant tech tinkerer. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes insights and character deep-dives as we count down to release!

    Have a burning question for Hunter? Drop it in the comments—I’ll be sure to pass it on.

    Thanks for stopping by,
    Mel

  • Cover Reveal

    I’m thrilled to share with you the cover for my latest novel, which will be released on the 31 July 2025. The cover design is by James at Humble Nations (GoOnWrite.com).

    James also designed me a cover for the first in the series – The Fifth Watcher, so that will be getting a revamp to coincide with the release.

    Hi everyone,

    I’m incredibly excited about all my book releases, but this upcoming one, The Outland, holds a special place! Apart from my podcast, this is the only series I write from a first-person point of view, and much like the first book in the Worlds Apart series, it really pushed me out of my comfort zone. Honestly, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the ride!

    While all my novels have an element of suspense and adventure, the Worlds Apart series, being speculative science fiction, has truly allowed me to throw in even more surprises. I actually had vivid memories of my dad circling my head because, as a teenager, the stories I told back then were a little heavy on the disaster element – think San Andreas on steroids!

    When I started this tale, I didn’t really have an idea how many books there would be in the series. But writing The Outland has opened up so many possibilities that there will be at least three more! I’d better get writing because I’m also planning Season 2 of Labno & Carter (the podcast) and the fourth in the Collective series. I’ll definitely try not to spread myself too thin, but it’s hard when I love all my characters so much – it wouldn’t do to have favourites!

    Thanks for stopping by. Stay tuned for more exciting news about The Outland as we get closer to its release!”

    Take care

    Mel