Get ready to learn more about the book When Flowers Wilt in this discussion with sapphic author G.E. Masters.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz G.E. Masters about When Flowers Wilt, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Fantasy category in the 2025 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write When Flowers Wilt?
I had just finished writing something else and was planning to write the sequel, when a scene kept replaying in my head. From there, I started building a world and the characters where this imagined scene would fit.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
I love Vivian and Venus in different ways, for different reasons. Both have flaws that make their lives more difficult and they tend to get in their own ways. Vivian is unapologetic in how she lives her life and acts like she can forgive and move on easily, but it’s actually just her avoiding any conflict. Venus is sensual, demanding, and obsessive, but is one-track minded and can never let anything go. Somehow, through all their faults, they learn the lean on one another.
Whether they’re similar or different to me is between me and my well-paid therapist.
What part of When Flowers Wilt was the most fun to write?
The scene where they squabble, resulting in Venus ripping the car door off and tossing it aside.
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?
The sequel is already out and available! When Death Blooms is darker than When Flowers Wilt, so please read responsibly.
What is your favorite line from your book?
“I hadn’t realized I fixated on such an unhinged woman. Do I even want her soul?”
Do you have any odd writing quirks?
If I write with music on, I’ll pick one song that I’ve memorized and that fits the vibe of the scenes and play it on a loop. It lets me get the tone and in the right head space without distracting me from what I’m writing.
Do you have a pet who helps/hinders your typing?
I have two cats, Cookie and Jade, who I thanked in the acknowledgements of When Death Blooms. Cookie is very snuggly and will walk over to lay on my chest. That usually means I can’t move or do anything, so writing will stop until she decides she wants to get up. Jade is much more laid back and usually sleeps close by.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing, and by whom?
Other authors have told me to not look at my reviews, and they’re 100% correct. Readers are allowed to have their opinions and they are truly none of my business.
Do you feel bad putting your characters through the wringer?
Sometimes, but I always plan to get them an HEA, so I think it’s all worth it. I love when characters fight to be with each other, regardless of what shit they had to go through to get there. If you read When Death Blooms, you’ll know what I mean.
What type of books do you enjoy reading the most?
I was obsessed with Maximum Ride by James Patterson when I was in middle school. Like fully obsessed. My reading preferences then took a turn, and I was reading some shit that middle schoolers should definitely never read. I’m talking like Flowers in the Attic and other books that I was too young to really understand. I’m not sure if they shaped my writing style, but maybe that’s a new thing to uncover with my previously mentioned therapist.
Describe your favorite reading spot.
I got a Kindle holder that attaches to my bed and a page clicker, so I’ll lay on my side and read with minimal physical effort. Otherwise, I prefer quiet, cozy places.
Do you only read books in one genre or do you genre hop?
I don’t stray too far from romance or fantasy, but I’ll jump around within those genres.
