What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Lady of Hell & Fury?
Lady was the champion I feel like most women needed in their life growing up. She falls into the darkest category for vigilante and morally grey, but she does so unapologetically. As a survivor myself of a similar story to hers, I wanted to bring a voice and dark humor to what going down the wrong path looked like. Writing this story gave me the freedom to explore that dark path untaken—the vengeance we survivors sometimes crave. And I, of course, loved bringing all the classic elements I’m known for to the story. Humor. Action. Chaotic, angsty romance.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Lady of Hell & Fury, what would they be?
For Lady, definitely “Inferno” by Rain Paris. She has many theme songs, but that’s one of my favorites.
Nova would be “Haunt Your Dreams” by Ari Abdul.
Fable would be “OXOX” by Dutch Melrose and Lost Boy.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Like what I write, I prefer paranormal romance, but I’ll pretty much enjoy anything with an element of romance and humor to it.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Presently, I’m reading “Death’s Obsession” by Avina St. Graves, but next I need to read “Bone Island” by Nicole Fiorina.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Honestly, I had so much fun writing everything in this book, but the Drunk Lady scene before the steam was one of my absolute favorites because it showed a new side to Lady we hadn’t gotten to see yet.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Not much of a quirk as a necessity, but I need music to “set the mood” for whatever scene I’m writing. I’ll pick a playlist based on feels for that scene. It really helps me get into the zone, and also build a fun playlist for my readers later.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
"The first draft is just you telling yourself the story."—Terry Pratchett. This is an essential quote for someone like me who’s a pantser and let’s the characters lead. I just write up the incident report.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I want them to remember that you have the power to control how something affects you. No one has a right to hurt you, and no one has a right to tell you how to heal. Live unapologetically, but please also do so kindly. We all need a little Lady, Nova, and Fable mentality to live by.
Brianna West is the author of the new book Lady of Hell & Fury (Lady Love Taps, #1)
Connect with Brianna West
Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.
