Get ready to learn more about the book Darkness of Desire in this discussion with sapphic author Ruby Scott.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz Ruby Scott about Darkness of Desire, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Hot & Steamy Romance category in the 2024 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write Darkness of Desire?
Darkness of desire is the second book in my Awakening of Desire series. A series which exists in a world where sexual tension, erotic fantasy and safe, light kink are part of everyday life for domme, Victoria, her sub, Abby as well as their network of friends.
As a sapphic writer I try to challenge common preconceptions to show the complexity of what it is to be human and that includes our good and bad sides. Darkness of Desire is about hope in the aftermath of crossed lines between fantasy and reality, when power is taken without consent.
Consent is everything.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
Both Victoria and Abby have elements of me within them, or should I say, the better bits of me. I do feel the need to point out they have far more adventures than I do!
Victoria’s integrity and understanding are values I hold dear and she was a joy to write. Victoria is the heart of their world so she’ll always be my favourite. Please don’t tell the others!
What inspired the idea for Darkness of Desire?
I wanted to explore what happened when sexual fantasies are achieved and boundaries are continually pushed. To explore what it was like to wake up one morning and have gone so far beyond your original position of comfort that you don’t recognise yourself. How do you get out from the inequality of power?
What was the biggest challenge writing this book?
My fiction is some people’s reality. It was important in all the books I write, and particularly in this series, to create a blend of authenticity, sensitivity and hope beyond adversity. Patience, research, empathy, and damned good listening are essential.
What part of Darkness of Desire was the most fun to write?
Going from the dramatic showdown when Alison is most at peril to the surreal comedy of the trio (Victoria, Abby and Alison fleeing the scene). I enjoy flipping from one emotion to the next because it reflects life.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
It literally is what it says on the tine, The Darkness of Desire.
How much research did you need to do for Darkness of Desire?
A reasonable amount to make it gritty and authentic. I talk to lots of people.
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?
There are two books which come after Darkness of Desire and they are Mistress of Desire and Commitment to Desire, both of which are just as steamy (if not more so) and have a shovel full of humour. I am currently writing the final book which will complete the series… Although there is a character, called Suzette, who may end up with her own spin-off series.
What is your favorite line from your book?
‘When have you known me to make anyone do anything they didn’t want to?’ Her [Victoria’s] brow quirked. The question was rhetorical. ‘People revert to type, and all you have to do is give them enough rope and they will inevitably hang themselves. It’s so much cleaner.’
Where do you usually write, and what do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
In my office, although lately I’m trying to master dictation so I can write and walk. I’ll still stand and edit in my office (standing desk) but getting out and about to dictate is great for creativity and mental health.
What’s your favorite writing snack or drink?
Fizzy water, shredded carrots and seasoned seaweed snacking sheets. I wrap some shredded carrots in the seaweed sheet (Costco’s seaweed is pretty good) and then pop it in my mouth. Don’t knock it until you try it! the saltiness of the seaweed and the sweetness of the carrots is pretty damned good together.
Is there a particular genre you would love to write but only under a pseudonym?
I’d love to write a psychological thriller that had a dark satirical edge. I love playing with whole laugh/cry precipice of emotions.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing, and by whom?
Oh, there are two. the first is write. Wherever and whenever you can. Don’t let anyone (including your own imposter syndrome because we all have it) stop you or intimidate you into not writing.
The second is a quote from Theodore Roosevelt’s Citizenship in a Republic speech.
‘It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.’
As long as you enter the arena, you count.
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
My slow typing.
When you’re writing an emotional or difficult scene, how do you set the mood?
Silence so I can sink inside a characters head and hear their voice.
If you could be mentored by a famous author (living or not), who would it be?
A combination between Oscar Wylde and Dylan Thomas.
Have you ever fallen in love with one of your characters?
I love Abby in Darkness of Desire. Her openess, creativity and willingness to learn combined with her strength makes her a beautiful, yet unassuming character.
What books did you grow up reading?
I have always had, and still do have an eclectic taste and I read both fiction and non fiction. Out of all the genres I have read pyschological crime thrillers is the probably the most consistent vein through the years. It fuels my need for justice over malice. I’m an idealist at heart.
Describe your favorite reading spot.
On a beach, or a plane, or a train. I love mixing the two different elements of escape together while still being present.
