Interview with Jess Armstrong, Author of Lion House
13 Apr 2023
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Lion House?
A long-time friend and I were discussing what it would be like to be stuck together forever. The conversation spiraled from there, and the idea for Lion House was born.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Lion House, what would they be?
I love “Killer Queen” by Queen for Isobel and Rose.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Fantasy is without a doubt my favorite genre to read as well as to write. I love to escape from the everyday and the ordinary.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo (by Taylor Jenkins Reid), Kingdom of the Wicked (by Kerri Maniscalco), and Crescent City (by Sarah J. Maas).
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
My favorite scene occurs near the end of the book. Isobel and Rose are thrown into a heart-wrenching situation and are forced to rely on their past and connection to each other if they have any hope of making it out alive. I get goosebumps every time I read this scene.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
When I write, I type a million words a second. Then spend about an hour cleaning up the disaster I just poured onto the page. Edits are so important.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
“Never let fear be the reason.” For example, if there’s something you’re undecided on, and fear is the thing holding you back, let it go. Do the thing. The fear will pass, but the regret will not.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I hope readers connect with my characters, and that the connection lasts long after the final page of the story.
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