The following is an interview with New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz regarding the recent release of the romantasy novel, Rings of Fate, with Entangled Publishing. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with de la Cruz about her creative process in bringing the story and characters to life on the page, what readers may take away from the story’s themes, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the recent release of Rings of Fate! What can you share with us about the premise of this story and the genesis behind it?
Melissa de la Cruz: I pitched it as “sexy Lord of the Rings.” I wanted to write a medieval-ish fantasy about a snarky barmaid and a troubled handsome prince. Lord of the Rings is my favorite book of all time, and I wanted to write a cozy romance filled with Hobbitton-esque serenity and good people facing up to a dark evil.
BD: This story deftly weaves the intrigue of disparate worlds colliding with emotionally resonating characters. How would you describe your creative approach in weaving these elements into your narrative?
MDLC: Honestly, I have no idea how to explain the creative process. It just happens. It really is like “big magic” in that you are tapping into your subconscious when you write. You keep rewriting it until it’s good. I try to insert humor and playfulness and a real sense of camaraderie and then just have them react to the dark adventure. I think that’s what makes it real.
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 Aren and Dietan’s story may connect with and impact today’s readers?
MDLC: I think it would remind people of what is most important – home, family, friendship, and a romance wherein two people are there for each other. I think in these chaotic times it will make readers appreciate what they have, to be grateful for home and hearth and good biscuits!
BD: What makes Entangled Publishing the perfect home for this story?
MDLC: Such a lovely hard-working group of genius women who really respect and understand the romance and romantasy genre! It’s been a blast working with them!
BD: Are there any other projects – past or current – that you would like to highlight for our readers?
MDLC: I really feel my fantasy books this year is at a higher level. I have Sibylline coming out in February and Kingdom of Waves out in June and together with Rings of Fate I feel these are the best books I have written!
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for our readers to find more information about Rings of Fate and your other work?
MDLC: I’m active on Instagram at authormelissadelacruz and on Substack at melstack!
