Dark Romantasy – Write on the World

Ever wonder what would happen if the villain got the girl—and you rooted for it? Fantasy romance author Rosalyn Stirling has built a world where demons tempt, love defies the odds, and happily ever afters are anything but predictable. In this interview, she shares how fast-drafting helps her battle imposter syndrome, why she embraces all forms of storytelling, and what’s next for her wildly addictive Wild Shadows Series. Whether you’re already a fan or just discovering her work, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into Rosalyn’s writing world.

In Auctioned to the Vampire, barmaid Nemera risks everything to help a captive virgin vampire escape the underground pleasure market. What begins as an act of mercy turns into a steamy, intoxicating romance, fueled by desire—and venom. As danger closes in, she must choose between her own safety and the vampire who’s claimed her heart.

Buy now!

Q: Who are some of your favorite authors that you feel were influential in your work? What impact have they had on your writing?
A: At heart, I’m just a romantasy fangirl who loves prancing about in my imagination for longer than might be socially acceptable. That said, I have so many authors whose books I love. And I think the way these stories captured my imagination is something I try to emulate in my own writing. One of my favorite series is ACOTAR (A Court of Thorns and Roses) by Sarah J. Maas. I am and will always be a Rhys girl. I also love Fourth Wing, Nevernight, and all of Katee Robert’s books.

Outside of romantasy, I really enjoyed Lights Out and Pucking Around (on the contemporary/dark romance side of things), manga, and web comics. I don’t believe there’s a “superior” form of media, and I think any way a person can find joy in the media they consume is perfectly valid, whether that’s books, magazines, comics, manga, graphic novels, tv shows, or anything else. Do what you love. As for the impact these various forms of media have had on my work… They taught me to let myself to unabashedly gush about stories and write what I love to read.

Continue reading →

Author Interview

Author interview with fantasy writer C. Rae D’Arc

May 13, 2025April 17, 2025 Mandy Webster

Author C. Rae D’Arc is a lifelong book lover who has worked in nearly every corner of the literary world, from writing and editing to retail and reviewing. A university graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in English, she blends her love of storytelling with a deep appreciation for analysis and history. Though she lives in the desert, she finds inspiration in forests, fantastical creatures, and the beauty of nature.

When Princess Emerald of Somnus pricks her finger on a poisoned spindle, she falls into a deep sleep—and dreams of modern England. Caught between two worlds, Emer must navigate smartphones, new friendships, and a budding romance, all while racing against time to awaken before the poison claims her heart. The first installment of the Dreaming Princesses series, Dreaming Beauty is a whimsical and heartfelt retelling perfect for fans of Enchanted and reimagined fairy tales.

Q: What’s a memory of a story or book that made you realize you wanted to be a writer?
A: I always wanted to be a writer. I remember reading Kevin Henkes’ books in kindergarten and learning he was the author and illustrator. Those became my dream jobs.

Continue reading →

Author Interview

Author interview with fantasy writer Monica Shantel

May 6, 2025May 8, 2025 Mandy Webster

From escaping into fantasy as a young girl to building entire worlds that explore redemption, survival, and love, Monica Shantel has always turned to storytelling as her lifeline. With her debut Beauty of a Crimson Soul, she invites readers into shadowy realms where broken characters discover their strength—and maybe even a happy ending. In this interview, Monica shares the inspirations behind her work, her creative rituals, and the challenges she’s overcome to carve out her space in indie publishing. Whether you’re here for the romance, the monsters, or the magic, you’ll find plenty to love in her fierce and heartfelt journey.

In Beauty of a Crimson Soul, Angel is a newly appointed guardian angel tasked with saving Ayden Dyer, a reckless and self-destructive 23-year-old whose soul teeters on the edge of damnation. As Angel fights to guide him toward redemption, unexpected feelings complicate her mission—and when fallen angels drag them both to Hell, the stakes become eternal. With Ayden’s soul slipping away, Angel must defy fate to save him before it’s too late.

Q: What/who were your early literary influences, and how do you think their writing has shaped you as a storyteller today?
A: The authors who i really loved to read when I was just starting to were Holly Black and Dan Greenburg. I was hugely into fantasy even at 7 years old. They shaped a ton of my love for fantasy in general, and it was later on that authors like Kelley Armstrong and Lauren Kate hooked me on the romance and darker side. But Neal Shusterman got me into the creepier and more horror side.

Continue reading →