The Blight of Blackridge
by R.P. Dunwater
Released: Dec 21, 2022
Genre: Fantasy
Why this book and why now?
This story came to us at the start of 2020 when we were all holed up in our homes and one of us was dealing with a lot of anxiety. I wanted to write something that held all of the pain and fear and aggravation I was going through at the time. Once we developed an outline of our initial idea, we knew this was ‘the one’: our debut! The story has evolved a lot since then, but we’re so super proud of it.
What is a significant way your book has changed since either the first draft or the way you thought it would turn out when you first had the inspiration?
This was originally supposed to end on its massive cliffhanger, and then be finished. A single, standalone book. To me, that felt like what we were dealing with at the time. The world was paused, with no idea what would happen next. But we quickly realized people would hate that. So we further developed the story into a trilogy.
What 3 things would your main character want with them if they got stranded away from civilization, and why?
Eleanor would definitely bring a book on local foraging, some woodworking tools, and her dog, Edmund.
One of your main characters is planning a romantic night. Tell us about it.
Eleanor loves the outdoors. She would probably orchestrate a candlelit picnic under the stars in the forest outside her home. There would be wine and simple food and a night of talking and banter.
Publishing a book is a huge accomplishment and it’s time to party! Choose a celebratory beverage for one of your main characters to toast the release of your new book.
Mariela would pour everyone a glass of the finest wine, and then start a game of who could finish it first!
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
“Darkside” by Neoni. This was on repeat while I was writing the end of the story. Eleanor is about to prove to everyone that she’s a force to be reckoned with.
