Interview with Bernadette Rowley, Author of Wings of Shadow and Prophecy

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?

After completing my twelve-book epic romantasy series, The Queenmakers Saga, I needed a new project. I wasn’t ready to leave a kingdom I had spent the last fourteen years in, so I came up with the concept of telling the stories of the children of the couples I had brought together in Queenmakers. And so the Shadow Wing Quest Trilogy was born. Wings of Shadow and Prophecy is book 1 and tells Princess Iona Zialni’s story. She’s already an extraordinary young woman but instinctively knows there is more to her than being the heir to the throne and a shapeshifting Defender.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?

Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys. This is Iona claiming her destiny, not the one carved for her.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I love to read fantasy and romantasy, so I have plenty of inspiration for the stories I currently write. However, as a palate cleanser, I read contemporary romance, historical romance, and romantic suspense. I also occasionally delve into serial killer mysteries. One common thread in most of my reading is an element of romance.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Currently, I have The Seal by Juliette M. Banks, a military romance, and One More Chance by Cheryl Phipps, which is a small-town romance. Currently reading CJ Archer’s latest historical mystery, Bloodlines and Birthright, which has an element of magic.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I really loved the first scene where Iona partially morphs into the bear in order to beat her father in a training fight. It's a huge mistake and a turning point for her life as she knows it. That scene sets in motion a series of events that, well... spoilers.

I also love writing the scenes where Iona transforms into the wolf.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I don't think I'm quirky in my habits at all. I do have the company of my cat Tiger most of the time, either under the desk or on the bed beside my desk. He's a three-year-old cat I rescued with his brother, Ghost, as three-week-old kittens. They came for the weekend and are still here. My desk is extremely messy, but I'd rather be writing than cleaning.

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

Fake it till you make it. You can't edit what's not written.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Iona starts the book as a bit spoiled, as you would expect. I want readers to see how much she has grown by the end of book 1. And by the end of book 2, she will be a different woman. I also want readers to be surprised by the twists and turns of the quest.