Interview with D.F. Jones, Author of Fury of the Dragon’s Maiden

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Fury of the Dragon’s Maiden?

I’ve always loved creating different stories within the fantasy romance genre. While many of my past tales featured warrior maidens and strong heroines, I had never ventured into the realm of knights and dragons. Blending the grit and spirit of medieval life with an entirely fictional world fascinated me. About a year and a half ago, I immersed myself in researching medieval culture and dragon lore, then built a tentative outline to bring the story to life. As always, the characters grew beyond the original plan, shaping a world where strength, loyalty, and love are put to the ultimate test. What inspired me? My love for GOT, Tyrian, is a tribute to Tyrion, my favorite character in that series. The name is the only resemblance. I fell in love with my characters. I write alternating POVs because I want to know what drives the characters; some have more prominent voices than others.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Fury of the Dragon’s Maiden, what would they be?

I’d say it’s a mix between “This is Love” from the original Cinderella and “Slippin’ into Darkness” by War. It’s a fun contrast—capturing the innocence and magic of true love and the darker battles the characters must face along their journey.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I love reading fantasy, paranormal romance (PNR), and nonfiction that explores time travel and past lives. Those genres spark my imagination and curiosity in a big way. And yes, partly, fantasy, PNR, and time travel romance are my favorite genres to write in! I’m drawn to stories that blend magic, mystery, and the idea that there’s so much more to existence than what we see.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Oh my, so many! A few at the top of the list are Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke, The Time Machine by H.G. Wells, The Apocrypha: The Complete Volume by Joseph Lumpkin, Life After Life by Raymond Moody, and The Sandman by Neil Gaiman and Dirk Maggs. I also have a growing stack of indie books waiting for me—but I’ll keep those names a secret so that no author friends get upset if I don’t mention them all!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I loved writing Chapter 17. It’s the climax of the story—the battle between light and darkness—and one of the longest chapters in the book. I leaned into the action, raised the emotional stakes, and let the characters fight for everything they believe in. Battle scenes are some of my favorite to create because they allow me to blend fast-paced action with deep, heartfelt moments.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

My husband jokingly calls it my “writing hole.” I have a favorite spot on the sofa in our entertainment room where I write most. I have my trusty booty pillow, and when I really get in the zone, I can sit there for hours without even realizing it. To keep my back happy, I usually tuck pillows under my legs to take the pressure off my spine. It’s not the prettiest setup, but it’s my little corner of creativity—and once I’m there, I’m in my own world.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

It’s my tagline: May love light the way!

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I hope they remember that there’s always a path back to the light, even in the darkest moments. Forgiveness isn’t about forgetting—it’s about setting yourself free. When you let go of bitterness and open your heart to love, even if it’s not returned, you create space for hope, healing, and new beginnings.

(I publish under both D.F. Jones and Dawn Jones. I chose to include both names because a deceased author, also known as D.F. Jones, wrote in the science fiction genre—a category some of my titles also cross into. Using both helps readers to quickly find my books while honoring the legacy of the original D.F. Jones.)

D.F. Jones (also Dawn Jones): is the author of the new book Fury of the Dragon’s Maiden: A Romantic Fantasy of a Cursed Knight, A Maiden’s Heart, Magical Destiny

Connect with D.F. Jones (also Dawn Jones):

Facebook

Twitter

Buy The Book