The Queen of Swords
by Ash Gray
Released: Aug 10, 2023
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Why this book and why now?
I like writing about lesbians in fantasy settings, I also like tarot, so I started writing a series where each book is based on a tarot card and the theme surrounding saif card. For instance, Book 4, Queen of Cups, is about Peyton — a former womanizer– falling in love with Willow while Robyn gladly observes 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?
Originally, Robyn and Willow (femmes) were going to both be in love with Peyton (the butch knight) but by Book 2 I realized I was tired of writing poly and wrote Willow and Peyton as monogamous with Aida coming in to be Robyn’s knight and butch girlfriend. Aida is a foil/opposite of Peyton, so it worked out.
Do your character names have special significance or meaning?
Peyton was the name of a mercenary in one of my favorite video games, Dragon Age: Origins. Willow is named after the lesbian witch character from Buffy, one of my favorite shows as a kid. I just like the name Robyn.
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
I never know how to answer this because my characters are not contemporary fictional characters. Willow would definitely listen to Back Street Boys, though. Robyn would listen to Celtic instrumentals. Peyton would like Beastie Boys.
