The following is an interview with Emily R. King regarding the recent release of the Greek-mythology-inspired fantasy novel, Wings of Fury, through 47North. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with King about the creative process in bringing the story to life, the impact that Wings of Fury may have on readers, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the recent release of your novel! For those who may be unfamiliar, how would you describe the book’s premise, and what inspired you to tell this story?
Emily R. King: Telling the story of the fall of Cronus and the rise of the Olympians through the eyes of a woman is the premise. The Golden Age, when Cronus ruled, was known as a time of peace and happiness for men. But what was it like for the women? That’s this tale.
BD: The novel deftly combines Greek mythology with positive representation of female empowerment. What can you share with us about your creative process in weaving these narratives together, and what have been some of your creative influences?
ERK: Writing Titanesses and goddesses is sort of like writing female superheroes. I love comics, so it would be easy to say that my creative influences for this were comic book characters, such as Wonder Woman and Catwoman from the DC universe, and Storm and Dark Phoenix from the Marvel universe.
BD: At Fanbase Press, our #StoriesMatter initiative endeavors to highlight the impact that stories can have on audiences of various mediums. How do you feel that Althea’s story will connect with and impact readers, and why do you feel that this story was important for you to bring to life?
ERK: A lot of what we know about history and various mythologies was written by men. I wrote Wings of Fury to explore what Greek mythology might have been like from a woman’s perspective. The women of different generations have stories to share, too. I wish we knew more of those tales, because I know they would help inform that mythos and make it broader and richer for people today.
BD: What makes 47North the perfect home for Wings of Fury?
ERK: Definitely the people. I got to work with three fabulous editors on this book. It was a true joy to get their input and feedback. I couldn’t have done it without Jason, Adrienne, and Clarence.
BD: Do you foresee expanding the novel into subsequent books or even into other entertainment mediums, if given the opportunity?
ERK: I’m always open to more opportunities. Book two, Crown of Cinders, releases October 5th. After that…who knows? I could see writing further about Greek Mythology, if given the chance.
BD: Are there any upcoming projects on which you are currently working that you would like to share with our readers?
ERK: I’m actually drafting a thriller at the moment. I’m obsessed with sharks, so this is my chance to write about them. I hope to finish it this spring.
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for our readers to find more information about Wings of Fury and your other work?
ERK: You can find me at emilyrking.com. It has links to all of my social media accounts, where I post often.
