I got to interview Tricia Levenseller! *Squee* I’ve enjoyed all of her books. They’ve got action, romance, intrigue, and so much conflict in them that I can’t help but be hooked into each and every story this author tells. I recently had the opportunity to ask her some questions about her upcoming novel The Shadows Between Us, which is the story of a young villainess that has set out to steal the heart of the king, marry him, and then kill him and take the throne for herself. She’s vicious and fierce, but she also has this knack for fashion that I’d honestly kill for myself. Pick this up, it’s going to make a perfect February read!
Hi Tricia! Can you tell us about yourself and your new book in a few sentences?
Hello! Sure, I currently write full-time in Utah. My toy poodle, Rosy, permits me to live in her apartment. When I’m not writing, I’m usually on my Xbox. THE SHADOWS BETWEEN US is what I like to describe as my Slytherin Romance. It’s about a girl who sets out to woo, wed, and then kill the Shadow King so she can take his kingdom for herself.
The Shadows Between Us is a little different than your previous stories. Did you have to get into a particular headspace to start writing it?
Surprisingly, no. It was pretty easy getting into Alessandra’s head. I’ve written Slytherin characters before. Alosa is one; she just doesn’t take things nearly as far as Alessandra does. And I write romances in all of my books. It’s actually my favorite part of any story. For TSBU, it was really fun to have the main plot be the romance this time around.
Alessandra is a bit of a designer in the story, setting some fun trends in court. How did that love of fashion start?
Alessandra had way too much time to herself as a kid. Her mother died, and her father basically ignored her. She’s always loved to look nice, so getting into sewing seemed natural for her. She had one of her maids teach her.
What’s an embarrassing secret the Shadow King would kill to keep readers from knowing?
How much time he spends fixing his hair every day.
What is Alessandra’s most prized possession, weapons excluded?
The ruby necklace the Shadow King gave her.
Between Alosa, Rasmira, and Alessandra, how soon could we expect a world take over?
I mean, it probably would have already happened, let’s be honest.
What is a trait that Alessandra values in people above all else? What about the Shadow King?
The Shadow King probably values honesty above all else. Alessandra just mostly values people who value her.
What’s the word that comes to mind when it comes to describing Alessandra and the Shadow King’s relationship?
Heated.
If Alessandra could take the reins of this interview for a moment, what is something she’d like for us to know?
You’re all invited to her ball as long as you dress fabulously.
What’s a power that the Shadow King would really like to have when it comes to Alessandra?
The ability to read her mind.
Who are some of your favourite villains in books and movies, and what book recommendations do you have if you’re wanting to get in a villainous mood?
The Darkling from The Grisha Trilogy, Loki from the MCU, Spike from Buffy, Damon Salvatore from The Vampire Diaries.
If you’re wanting to get in a villainous mood, I suggest checking out Vikings, And I Darken by Kiersten White, There Will Come a Darkness by Katy Rose Pool, and The Following.
