Interview with Q.K. Petty, Author of Dark Summer

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Dark Summer?

I promised myself I would write a series and see it through to the end. The story came to me unexpectedly, inspired by television and by my friends. But at the core, I wanted to create something lasting, something my kids could one day pick up and say, “Wow, Dad really did that.”

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

Hmm… I would say Wildest Dreams by Taylor Swift.

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

Fantasy has always been my favorite genre. I’m amazed at how writers can build entire worlds with their own language, lore, and culture—it’s fascinating to me. While my books lean more toward urban fantasy, I’ve always been inspired by authors like Pierce Brown, George R. R. Martin, and Brandon Sanderson.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

It would be Winds of Winter if George R. R. Martin would finish it already.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scenes to write are always the action ones. The fight between Tennin Eden and Seditio leader Mary was especially fun—it had been building for a long time, and I loved leaning into the violence. I get so into these moments that I’ll walk around my office acting them out, hands flying like I’m right there in the fight.

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

One of my quirks as a writer is that I wander around the house singing Morgan Wallen, putting on my best country accent like I’m auditioning for Nashville.

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

When life gives you lemons, skip the lemonade and grab a Guinness with your mates. Drink until you forget the lemons ever existed.

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

I want readers to enjoy the journey, not just follow the plot but truly experience the story. My hope is that they understand it, feel it, and connect with the meaning behind it. A Series of Four Seasons is, at its core, a story of empathy.

Q.K. Petty is the author of the new book Dark Summer

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