What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Mirage Guild?
The inspiration for this book snuck up on me like the realization that maybe, just maybe, I’m not as young as I used to be. It’s a continuation of my debut series, The Prism Society, where originally I planned to tell a different tale. Yet, when I sat down to write, Izzy’s story just poured out. Turning 35 felt like I was suddenly racing against time, a sentiment Izzy embodies perfectly. This book became a channel for all my career changes, uncertainties, and the existential dread of nearing 40. It’s basically wallowing in uncertainty but making it smutty.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Mirage Guild, what would they be?
If ‘Be Our Guest’ from Beauty and the Beast had a spicy, adults-only version, it would be the anthem of The Mirage Guild. And for Izzy, I’d pick ‘I Did Something Bad’ by Taylor Swift. She’s always second-guessing her wild choices, but by the end, she’s pretty much owning her chaos.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I oscillate between thrillers and romances like a literary pendulum. When the world gets a bit too dark or deadly in my thrillers, I switch to romances for a mood lift.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
My TBR pile is a mountain, but at its peak right now are ‘Riley Thorn and the Dead Guy Next Door’ by Lucy Score, and ‘Ninth House’ by Leigh Bardugo. Depends on the day whether I’m in the mood for laughs or dark academia vibes.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Oh, the wine cellar scene hands down. There’s something deliciously naughty about sneaking around in a childhood home. It brought out a rebellious spark in Izzy that was just too much fun to write. Plus, who doesn’t love a bit of sophisticated wine talk before things get… less sophisticated?
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I’m basically part of the furniture at my local coffee shop. I’ve written nearly every word of my books from one specific chair at one specific table there. If I don’t land that spot, my entire writing day feels off.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I signed my books with ‘stay spicy’ – that applies to all parts of life, not just the sexy ones.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That life doesn’t have a set timeline. We’re all just winging it, trying to find joy wherever we can. There’s no such thing as being behind in life; there’s just life, messy and beautiful in its own timing.
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