Welcome back to Part 2 of our conversation with Boyko G. Ovcharov, also known by his pen name Benedict Stuart. In the first part, we explored his creative process, genre versatility, and unique storytelling approach.
Today, we delve deeper into the cultural and emotional layers that shape his novels, the powerful role of music in his writing, and his exciting shift into sci-fi. Boyko also shares insights on teaching, character development, and what future projects lie ahead.
Join us as we continue to uncover the heart and mind behind this thoughtful, multi-genre author’s work.
On Wandering Feelings & Romance
Cultural Roots:
BH: Wandering Feelings includes folk songs and Balkan settings. How did your Bulgarian heritage shape that narrative?
BOG: I suppose incorporating cultural diversity only enhances and validates the narrative further with different points of view and perspectives. In fact, the setting features authentic and breathtaking scenery that changes in accordance with characters' thoughts, moods, situations, interactions etc. Thus everything seems interconnected and balanced out, striving for harmony, amid dramatic twists. Of course, culture is demonstrated via art, music, traditional meals and recipes, folklore, wise sayings, ways of talking, thinking, lifestyles and much more.
Music in Writing:
BH: You’ve mentioned quoting songs—from Coldplay to folk ballads. How does music inspire your prose and emotional tone?
BOG: Music as an art form belongs to culture, as mentioned earlier. There are different styles of music, including lyrics in various languages. However, music always delivers some powerful messages of love, sadness, strong feelings that can be experienced everywhere in the world. The universal and emotional nature of music makes it so enduring and unique. In addition, literature has its own rhythm as well. Just like spoken speech with its own intonation, even melody. Therefore, music could be seen as part of language and prose.
On The Proximity of Stars & Sci-Fi
Sci-Fi Themes:
BH: What ideas or questions are you exploring in The Proximity of Stars? Why pivot to dystopian sci-fi after romance?
BOG: Allegedly, those genres are quite different. However, referring back to the multi-genre approach, they are not incompatible. One thing that binds them together may be the 'human side', positive aspirations, emotional intelligence, relatability. Many readers think that both books portray a philosophical, if not an inspirational side too. That would certainly be desirable and beneficial.
Awards & Response:
BH: The book's cover won awards—how did that recognition affect your journey as an indie sci-fi author?
BOG: I could only be grateful for all kinds of recognition along the way. Presumably, any author undergoes a life journey of personal improvement in order to win the hearts of readers somehow. Several years ago, an independent publishing company with offices in Japan and the United Kingdom agreed to publish my books and create nice covers for them. Something that I really appreciate. In that case, teamwork is the key to success.
Teaching & Inspiration
Mystery of Learning:
BH: On Goodreads you described your students’ knowledge growth as a mystery—how does that inform your teaching and your writing?
BOG: If we quote Einstein's ideas on miracles and imagination, we could apply the same principles to teaching and learning. We should really regard the process of growing up and learning as an everyday miracle or mystery. It happens naturally, gradually, dynamically, oftentimes subconsciously, but the results are amazing and wonderful. Of course, in writing it is also essential how to present our ideas, hone our style, create convincing characters.
Moreover, asking for the critical and honest opinions of your loved ones, family and friends, students and colleagues is another key factor for success as well. Teachers really should also be learning from their students. It is a two-way process, even synergistic at times.
Resonant Characters:
BH: Many readers see themselves in your characters. How do you balance personal experience and fictional storytelling?
BOG: I can only be glad if my characters are so relatable and realistic. Authors tend to create fictional stories, situations and characters based on their personal interactions with the world, their thought process, perceptions, ideas, mindset or mentality, understanding, feelings and emotions. However, there should be a fine line between real world and fiction. Usually things are much more idealized in literature. There is a good reason for that. Readers need to analyze and reflect on the plot and draw their own conclusions afterwards. If they book is somehow thought-provoking and moving, then readers feel satisfied. There are various tastes though.
Future Projects & Reflections
Upcoming Work:
BH: You're reportedly working on a new adventure project. What can you share about the themes or plot?
BOG: I have always seen my writing as a hobby, something that one does for pleasure. Therefore, I might create something more in the near future, but the process should be natural, and not forced. It is always ''a work in progress'' to a certain extent.
Adaptation Aspirations:
BH: You mentioned hopes for a movie or play. What elements of your work resonate most as potential screenplays?
BOG: I guess universal topics like the battle between good and evil, human development, growth, wisdom, love, life lessons and a good sense of humor are all things that are worth featuring. Hopefully, in the foreseeable future.
Advice to Younger Self:
BH: With your rich background in business, academia, and writing—what advice would you give your younger self, other aspiring authors or readers as a whole?
BOG: I might suggest being humble, sincere and ambitious at young age is always welcome and expected. However, any aspiring author or a professional might want to be brave enough to explore, experiment and achieve their goals, while thinking about others, contributing to the common good and society at large. In other words, be better selves.
Finally, once again I am so grateful for this conversation with you.
Best wishes to you and all readers' community!
BH: Thank you to Boyko G. Ovcharov for sharing his
thoughtful insights and creative journey with us.
Whether writing as Boyko G. Ovcharov or Benedict Stuart, his
stories blend culture, emotion, and reflection in ways that resonate deeply
with readers. From genre-crossing narratives to rich, character-driven themes,
his work reminds us that storytelling is both personal and universal.
Be sure to explore his books and stay tuned for whatever comes next from this versatile author.
About the Author
Boyko G. Ovcharov, who also writes under the pen name Benedict Stuart, is a Bulgarian author whose work spans memoir, romance, and dystopian sci-fi. With a background in business, academia, and language education, his writing blends intellectual depth with emotional insight, often exploring themes of identity, human connection, and cultural heritage. Whether weaving Balkan folklore into a romantic narrative or tackling philosophical questions in speculative fiction, his stories invite readers into richly imagined worlds grounded in universal truths.
When he's not writing, Boyko enjoys teaching, listening to music, and exploring the mysteries of learning and creativity. His books have received international recognition, including awards for cover design, and he continues to write with a passion for growth, discovery, and meaningful storytelling.
