Get ready to learn more about the book Of Friction in this discussion with sapphic author S.J. Lee.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz S.J. Lee about Of Friction, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Science Fiction category in the 2025 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write Of Friction?
I wrote this book and series because I didn’t see any media of its kind. I wanted normalized representation and character focus in the gritty world of military sci-fi.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
Sam is my favorite character in this book, but Miriam is my favorite in the overall series. Both characters are flawed and human like the rest of us. They each have their own coping mechanisms (which may or may not be very healthy). Sam helped me realize and accept my own neurodivergence as well.
How much research did you need to do for Of Friction?
In this first book, I didn’t do as much research as the others since I used a lot of my own experiences and training. I wanted to see more accurate fighting and CQB (close-quarters battle)/combat tactics in the genre as some media just don’t get basics right. This book and series IS speculative fiction so there is some suspension of belief, but it should still be grounded in actual tactics.
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?
Of Abrasion, Book 2 of the trilogy series, is already out and available on ebook, paperback, and audiobook. Book 2 leans into resilience, anger, and coping mechanisms. Of Imperfection, Book 3, will be releasing in February 2026 and will be available on ebook, paperback, and audiobook. Book 3 focuses on morality and indoctrination.
How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
When I finished Of Friction (my debut), my wife showered me with gifts and food. That was pretty great. I think I celebrated by going straight into Book 2 editing. I did the same with Book 2’s completion and release. I guess I don’t really know how to celebrate, so my wife makes it a big deal for me. She’s the best.
What animal or object best represents you as an author or your writing style?
A woodpecker would probably be the best representation of me as an author. It’s not so much the noise, but because I focus on one patch of bark (writing/book) so intently that the rest of the world doesn’t exist. I become very single-minded and tunnel-visioned. Hyperfixations, right?
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing, and by whom?
Stop chasing perfection. Constantly editing the same scene/chapter over and over gets me nowhere. Just get it done. Still do a good job, but nothing will ever be perfect. Following this got me through my drafts and actually releasing books.
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
I am my biggest hindrance. Imposter syndrome is awful but part of the process.
Have you ever cried when writing an emotional scene?
No. I smile after I write hopefully-devastating scenes. You’re welcome.
What type of books do you enjoy reading the most?
I prefer speculative fiction. I’ve always leaned toward more “realistic” and grounded sci-fi/fantasy. I can suspend belief, but if it’s too out there, I lose interest and immersion. I used to be able to read much harder sci-fi, but my taste has trended toward softer sci-fi in the past decade.
What books did you grow up reading?
I grew up reading Animorphs by K.A. Applegate. Whoever thinks those are YA books… That series gets dark. I was also reading Ender’s Game/Shadow, Battle Royale, Roald Dahl (The Witches, Danny the Champion of the World, Matilda, etc.), Louis Sachar (Holes, Wayside School, etc.), HP when it was huge, and Michael Chricton (Jurassic Park, Sphere, etc.). It definitely influenced me although I didn’t start writing until 2023.
