We chat with author Melissa de la Cruz about Rings of Fate, which is a romantasy for readers who love the wit of The Princess Bride, the adventure of classic fantasy quests, and romances that balance danger with delicious banter.
Hi, Melissa! Welcome back! It’s been five years since we last spoke! How have you been and what have you been up to?
I’ve probably published a thousand novels since then! Kidding! LOL! I’ve been writing books, finishing up my Never After series, and gearing up for the publication of my first adult romantasy, RINGS OF FATE!
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
When I was eight years old and could read books on my own. I loved Dr. Seuss and fairytales. That’s when I decided I wanted to be a writer.
Quick lightning round! Tell us:
- The first book you ever remember reading: A Child’s Treasure of Fairy Tales – a gift from my mom
- The one that made you want to become an author: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott – I definitely saw myself in Jo March.
- The one that you can’t stop thinking about: The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien – my favorite book of all time.
Your latest novel, Rings of Fate, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Sexy Lord of the Rings! This is actually how I pitched the book and sold it!
What can readers expect?
A really fun romp with two characters who are so broken but wonderful who fall in love. It’s a slow burn, cozy romantic adventure. It’s one of my most favorite books I’ve ever written.
Where did the inspiration for Rings of Fate come from?
I’ve always wanted to do a medieval fantasy like Lord of the Rings but with the romance at its center. I’ve loved barmaid characters, and I wanted to write a woman who was selfless and hardworking and I love handsome princes who need a little help with saving the world.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
I love Aren’s sisters and Dietan’s friends – hope to see more of them in the next books!
Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?
I re-wrote that book a thousand times lol. Getting the tone right was the main thing I really worked on as the genre and the voice is new to me.
This is your first romantasy book! Were there any changes to your writing approach from your previous books?
I think I re-wrote it more lol. My editor kept saying the voice was too young. So I kept trying to “grow up” to a 25 year old.
With dozens of books to your name, what are some of the key lessons you’ve learned as a writer since your debut?
Write the book that matters to you, but also one that resonates with an audience. As a working writer, a commercial fiction writer, your books need to sell, but they also need to be meaningful to yourself as well. I’ve learned to trust my gut more than anyone else’s.
What’s next for you?
The second book in all my fantasy series! I really think the three fantasy books I have coming out this year are some of the best I’ve ever written. Rings of Fate, Sibylline and Kingdom of Waves. I’m working on book two of these series now. Oh and I have a new Descendants series kicking off this May! Welcome to Merlin Academy!
Lastly, what books are you looking forward to picking up this year?
In 2026? My favorite authors are Maggie Stiefvater and Holly Black so I’m excited to read their new books!
