A Designer Magick
by Fox N. Locke
Released: Jun 19, 2024
Genre: Fantasy
Why this book and why now?
The first draft was written as a direct response to lockdown. It became a way for me to explore themes of isolation and feeling trapped, but it quickly became a meditation on my long buried transness and queer identity. Subsequent redrafts revealed more about mental illness and my own struggles here. The last few years have proved just how vital it is for a book that’s unashamedly about trans rights, the value of queer lives, intersectionality, and mental health to exist. This is a hope punk novel and I think these are the stories we need right now. Not bad for a book first inspired by Sailor Moon!
Do your character names have special significance or meaning?
Every name in the book is carefully chosen. None are accidental and each are significant. Sometimes that’s the explicit meanings, others for the cultural significant they have. The power of names is always fascinating to me and something that’s always in play in my stories. That’s why characters often have names that morph and shift throughout the book. As a trans person, I’m always aware of the power invested in names and how you can exist within and be contained within them. Names are spells.
What TV show would your main character(s) most likely binge watch and why?
Pose. Without a doubt. A show about queer history that’s filled with trans folks, people of colour, and fashion? Yup, my main characters would be all over that.
One of your main characters is planning a romantic night. Tell us about it.
It has to be Lien. The poor guy is always too busy to have a romantic night. Which is a shame because he’s a total sweetheart. I can imagine him finding some erudite salt and pepper man to cook for. His parents ran a cafe, so it’s a given Lien can cook. He’ll open a bottle of expensive red and make some traditional Terpian cuisine with the radio playing jazz. There’s nothing more romantic than cooking with and then eating with someone you’re into. It doesn’t even need to lead to sex, but it’s been a while, so Lien wouldn’t say no.
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.
Vlyn slings back whiskey gingers like they’re going out of style, but have one that’s made with really good whiskey and artisanal ginger ale would hit the spot. A virgin one for me though!
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
I’m cheating a bit here as I have a whole playlist for this book, but Vlyn would totally put on Stop This Flame by Celeste. But it perfectly captures her arc and I’m always so proud of her when I hear it. It’s emotional and celebrator, defiant and beautiful.
