Black Hole Guns For Hire
by Friday Strout
Released: June 2, 2026
Genre: Science Fiction
Why this book and why now?
I grew up reading fantasy/sci fi series and always wanted to write my own. I miss the era of the legacy Star Wars, Battletech, and other serial novels of the 1990s. Only I wanted to write a story and characters who I resonated with as a queer woman. Hence, I’ve built a group of freedom fighters I can enjoy exploring for the next few years as I write.
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?
I drafted my way into the book so the book evolved a few times, actually. I didn’t “find” the story and begin outlining until I was a couple chapters in and I went back to tighten things up around the plan afterward.
Would you and your main character(s) get along?
I’ve left the life of the military behind me and while I think I’d admire some aspects of them, I don’t think all of them make for good friends. I’ve definitely written some flawed people into my book.
Did any real-life events or personal experiences influence the story?
I spent a long time in the military before coming out and rejecting the entire structure of imperialism imposed by the United States.
How does it feel to finally share this book with readers?
I’m nervous! But an excited type of nervous. Seeing some of the early reviews has been really nice, especially people who connect with it.
Is there anything you wish readers knew before diving into this book?
The book has lesbian sex.
What TV show would your main character(s) most likely binge watch and why?
Lina Bho would be a fan of Andor because it’s all about sticking it to The Man. Zuri Josmith would like martial arts movies because she is a bit of a nut about it. Tyson Connor would love silly popcorn movies like the Fast and the Furious series unironically because he is easy to please.
What’s your main character(s)’s favorite book and why?
The Count of Monte Cristo because of the depth of exploration on the topics of vengeance.
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.
Lina is a whiskey drinker so she’d probably grab something Irish or Scotch. Military culture includes a lot of alcoholism and it was a coping mechanism for a lot of her experiences in her 20s.
If your book had a scent, what would it smell like?
Gunpowder and sex.
Do you have any writing rituals or habits?
I try to get up and make coffee in the early morning, write for an hour or two as I’m enjoying that.
What are you currently reading?
The Fifth Season by N. K. Jemisin
