The following is an interview with Abigail Owen regarding the upcoming release of the new romantasy novel, The Things Gods Break, through Red Tower Books. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Owen about her creative process in returning to the world and characters of The Crucible series, her creative process in bringing the characters to life on the page, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the upcoming release of The Things Gods Break! As the latest installment in The Crucible Trilogy, where will readers find Lyra in her journey?
Abigail Owen: Thank you so much! I am so excited to share the next part of Lyra and Hades’ story with readers, and truly hope they love it. So, trying to avoid spoiling book 1 for those who haven’t read it yet, Lyra will start book 2 off right where she was left at the end of book 1. She must figure out how to get herself out of Tartarus while facing down the Titans. Although, if those incredibly powerful beings couldn’t get out by now, it’s going to be a challenge for Lyra. It doesn’t help that Cronos might have broken time down there. LOL.
BD: In returning to the world and characters of the trilogy, did you find that there was an ease to reconnecting with and giving voice to the characters?
AO: Absolutely! Lyra is one of my very favorite characters to ever write. She’s got zero filter and basically says everything she’s thinking. And for me she’s a fun combination of optimistic determination, a heart for others, and a snarky, sarcastic take on the world. In The Things Gods Break, I also got to return to Hades, only taking an even closer look by writing a few of the scenes from his POV. I already loved the King of the Underworld, but after seeing his thoughts more closely, I adore him even more. I hope readers will too!
BD: What makes Red Tower Books the perfect home for this ongoing story?
AO: I have worked with Entangled, Red Tower’s parent company, since about 2017. A good majority of my romantasies and paranormal romances are published with them—my series including: Inferno Rising, Fire’s Edge, Brimstone Inc., Dominions, and now The Crucible—nineteen books in total (so far). I have been so incredibly lucky to get to work with the team at Entangled for so long. I love everything about working with them, and it all starts with owner and CEO Liz Pelletier, who is brilliant at what she does, and then brings on a team who are all amazing. From spot-on edits that take my books to the next level, to some of the best artwork in the industry, to how they prioritize their readers and reader experiences, and so much more, they are just a dream to work with.
BD: The Games Gods Play was an incredible success with critics and fans alike. What can you tell us about your experience in seeing how much Lyra’s story resonated with readers?
AO: This past year has been a wild ride and an absolute dream come true. I have been blown away by all the love readers have shown this series. It is especially impactful to me because this was the book that pulled me out of a bad burnout. The story just exploded out of me and reminded me how much I love writing these worlds and characters. To have it then be embraced by readers in this way…there are no words.
BD: Are there any other projects – past or current – that you would like to highlight for our readers?
AO: Thanks for asking! Of course, the Crucible will be a trilogy, so look for teasers about book 3 here soon. I can’t say anything yet about other projects that may or may not be in the works. But for readers who are new to me, while you are waiting… If you are looking for a similar vibe between the hero and heroine, and another snarky, but vulnerable, main character, you might want to check out my Dominions series, starting with The Liar’s Crown. And if you are looking for something a little spicier, give my Inferno Rising series a look, starting with The Rogue King!
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for our readers to find more information about The Things Gods Break and your other work?
AO: The best place to start is my website (www.abigailowen.com). From there you can check out all my books, recommended reading order, and upcoming events where I’ll be. You can also find all my socials there!
