The following is an interview with author Jade Presley on the recent release of the romantasy novel, The Never List, through Red Tower Books. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Presley about her creative process for bringing the story and characters to life on the page, what she hopes that readers may take away from the story’s themes, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the release of The Never List! For those who may be unfamiliar, what can you share with us about the premise of this story?
Jade Presley: Thank you so much! I’m so excited about The Never List. It’s a “why choose” romantasy set in a royal realm where four immortal god-princes need to find a mate to safeguard their throne. Five women have tried and failed, and the last woman in Lumathyst who wants the chance to be theirs is who they end up choosing, and she has a secret big enough to damn them all.
BD: This story deftly weaves together the intrigue of dark magic and the connection provided from emotionally resonating characters. How would you describe your creative approach in weaving these elements, as well as the depth of character, into your narrative?
JP: I’m absolutely fascinated by the addition of magic and fantasy elements to already complex relationship dynamics, so it was a natural approach for me when sitting down to write The Never List. Magic adds another layer of depth to an already deep relationship set up when dealing with the why choose genre, and it really forced me to dig deep in the world building and character arcs while writing.
For me, it all starts with the character. I do my best to sketch them out as intricately as possible, uncovering who they are at their core. That’s where I’ll find their magic / power. It must fit their personality and who they are at their center for it to work well within the story. Once I have all the characters down, that’s when I get them on the page together and see what their dynamic is going to be like. There’s a delicate balance that happens when you have multiple love interests with fantastical powers. It not only heightens the stakes but creates an explosive set of emotions that drive the bonds between the characters, and that’s exactly what happened with Rylee and the princes of Lumathyst.
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 Rylee’s story may connect with and impact today’s readers?
JP: I think Rylee’s story is incredibly relatable, especially to women-identifying people who have experienced oppression and prejudice in male-dominated fields. The royals of Lumathyst literally need her to sustain the realm and yet some of the kings would have her feeling inferior? Make it make sense! And unfortunately, that theme is all too universal in so many women-identifying stories. I think there is something so damn beautiful about a woman stepping into her power and owning her worth after years of struggle and living under impossible standards set by a male-dominated world, and that’s what Rylee did for me when she stepped onto the first pages of The Never List. I hope readers who relate to her situation can find inspiration from her courage, tenacity, and the driving need she has to be unapologetically her.
BD: What makes Red Tower Books the perfect home for this story?
JP: I can’t say enough amazing things about Red Tower Books. When I pitched them my why choose romantasy, they didn’t shy away from an under-represented genre in the traditionally published world. They embraced the female empowerment themes and encouraged me to take risks between the pages. They’re supportive and allowed my voice and creativity to shine while backing me up with a team of uber-talented artists, editors, publicists, and creators the likes of which I’ve never seen. It’s been an absolute pleasure to work with them, and I couldn’t be happier with The Never List in their hands.
BD: Are there any other projects – past or current – that you would like to highlight for our readers?
JP: If you enjoy spicy why choose romantasy, then definitely check out The Veil of Blood & Magic—a Witcher meets True Blood romantasy packed with enemies-to-lovers vibes you won’t want to miss.
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for our readers to find more information about The Never List and your other work?
JP: You can always check out my website at jadepresley.com or sign up for my newsletter so you never miss a bit of news that drops!
