We chat wit author Kristin Cast about The Empress, which is a high-heat, fake marriage romantasy with a swoon-worthy, morally-gray love interest and the start of a new tarot-inspired fantasy series—think Scarlett St. Clair meets Outlander.
Hi, Kristin! Welcome back! How have the past few years been since we last spoke?
Thank you! It’s wonderful to be back. The past few years have been a incredible. I’ve had the opportunity to work on some exciting new projects, including working with Bloom on the Towerfall series, writing the first book, The Empress, building an empowered circle of women in She Wields Magick, and creating my very own tarot deck (plus a bunch of other things I can’t talk about yet!). The past few years have really been a period of growth, learning, building community, and connecting with my readers on a deeper level.
With it being the new year, have you set any goals for the year?
Absolutely! I’m a big believer in setting intentions for the year ahead. One of my main goals for 2025 is to connect with more readers through in person events. I’m also focusing on growing my She Wields Magick community to create a thriving space for women who are ready to step into their power. On a personal note, I’m aiming to carve out more time for creativity and balance and really embracing more feminie energy while juggling all my exciting work projects.
Quick lightning round! Tell us:
- The first book you ever remember reading: A Porcupine Named Fluffy by Helen Lester
- The one that made you want to become an author: There wasn’t a specific book that made me want to become an author. It was more a vibe inspired by Karen Rose.
- The one that you can’t stop thinking about: The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Your latest novel, The Empress, is out January 7th! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Magickal, seductive, empowering, adventurous, transformative.
What can readers expect?
In this story where Outlander meets tarot, readers can expect an immersive journey into a world filled with intrigue, romance, and magickal stakes. It’s a book about self-discovery, power, and the choices we make when faced with impossible odds. And it’s all set against the backdrop of a luxurious palace with a sexy, broody MMC and the vibes of Bridgerton and The Tudors.
Where did the inspiration for The Empress come from?
The inspiration came from my love for tarot, magickal archetypes, and the idea that the life we think we want might not be the life we need. It was really fullfiling to explore a world where the lines between the ordinary and the extraordinary blur, and where one woman’s journey symbolizes empowerment for everyone who feels they’re destined for more.
I’m also a practicing witch and use tarot in my daily practice. So, when thinking about the fantasy world and magickal system I wanted to incorporate into my next project, I knew tarot would be the base and set the tone.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
I, of course, absolutely loved writing the dynamic between Hannah and Kane. Their interactions were so charged with tension and emotion that they practically wrote themselves. Another favorite was delving into the worldbuilding, especially crafting the Kingdom of Pentacles and its blend of Renaissance and magick. It felt like painting with words.
How many moments of enjoyment am I allowed to have, because I have another one?! The friendship that grows between Hannah and Marion touched me deeply. All women deserve the same kind of strong and meaningful friendship that blossoms between these two characters.
Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was balancing the intricate plotlines while keeping the emotional core of the story front and center. I tackled this by breaking the narrative into smaller, manageable pieces and focusing on one layer at a time. Another challenge was maintaining momentum during the slower creative periods of the writing process. I found that stepping away for short breaks or leaning into rituals, like lighting a candle or pulling a tarot card for inspiration, helped me to re-center.
What’s next for you?
I’m always working on multiple projects! Right now, I’m currently deep into Book Two in the Towerfall series, The Lovers, which deepens the lore of this world and takes readers on another spicy and thrilling adventure. Both The Lovers and the Towerfall Tarot Deck release October 21, 2025.
I’m also growing my She Wields Magick community, offering courses and resources that blend magick and witchcraft with personal empowerment. Beyond that, I have some exciting new projects in the works that I can’t wait to share!
Lastly, what books are you looking forward to picking up in 2025?
There are so many amazing titles coming out in 2025! I’m particularly excited for The Hearth Witch’s Path: Everyday Rituals and Spells for the Home by Anna Franklin, The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig, Hot Wax by M. L. Rio, Kill Creatures by Rory Power, and The Charlie Method by Elle Kennedy. I also love discovering hidden gems and supporting debut authors, so I’ll be keeping an eye out for those as well.
