What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write A Curse of Masques and Monarchs?
I just wanted an excuse to put a masquerade mask on a book cover. Kidding! Honestly, I sat on A Curse of Hearts and Hunger for a while before I readied them for publishing, but as soon as I started thinking about it as the start of a series, I knew Book 2 was going to be Callum’s story. So I spent a lot of time thinking about what his story was going to be, and how it would fit into the world of Accursed Kingdoms. And as I was brainstorming, I just knew a Romeo-and-Juliet, star-crossed-lovers-style romance was perfect for Cal. And there needed to be a masquerade, and it all sort of fell into place from there.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of A Curse of Masques and Monarchs, what would they be?
Madaleya’s song is Wildest Dreams by Taylor Swift. For Callum: King by Lauren Aquilina.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I love reading fantasy romance and contemporary romance. Fantasy romance is definitely my favorite to write, so that’s the same. I have ideas for contemporary romance books, but haven’t convinced myself to actually write any. Yet!
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I’m absolutely dying waiting for Of Pixies and Pekoe by Shari L. Tapscott! I also want to read Of Mischief and Mages by LJ Andrews, but haven’t gotten to it yet.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
There’s a scene where Callum and Madaleya are writing letters to each other, and I included two letters for each of them: the letter they wanted to write, and the letter they actually wrote. It was so much fun to dive into the way they’re really feeling, but aren’t quite ready to admit yet. It’s a short scene, but really fun.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I like to put sticky notes and tape index cards with thoughts and ideas everywhere. Mostly on one wall that I’ve designated for writing, but all over my desk, my doors, and anywhere else I can find space. Sometimes it’s to help organize the story’s timeline, but sometimes I’ll just get an idea in my head like “OMG this character is _____!” And I’ll throw that on a sticky note.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
“Keep moving forward.” –Walt Disney. I like not to let anything get me down. Just keep moving forward and try not to overthink things. Life happens, and there will be drawbacks, but you just have to pick yourself back up and keep moving.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I just want my books to be an escape for people. I hope that after reading, they feel like they’ve had a good time and they’ve escaped the stresses of the real world for a short time.
Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.