Lucinda Wicked

“Welcome back, my lovelies. I’m joined today by the incredible Lucinda Wicked, a creative powerhouse who blends spooky aesthetics with heartfelt storytelling. Luci, I’m so excited to have you here.”

Thanks so much for having me, Ajay. I’m really happy to be here.

“Let’s jump into something fun. What’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to pick up?”

I would love to be able to actually draw. I am trying to teach myself but stars know I'm not a pro. XD

“Drawing can be so rewarding, even when it's chaotic. Do you have any weird or unexpected talents?”

I can catch a fly or flying bug with my hands.

“That is both impressive and slightly terrifying. Let's talk about writing. What role does research play in your work?”

When I have a character that is based in reality or like a dark romance, I tend to try to look up and learn about the role I am putting them into. For example, when I wrote Nail Me Down, I had to look into blue collar work and UX design so I could ensure accuracy for the characters.

“That kind of commitment really shows. Okay, survival question. Do you think you'd last a week in the Australian Outback?”

I totally think I could do it. But I totally would be bringing my bestie to do it with me.

“Good call. What’s your favorite way to connect with your readers?”

I am trying to get back into creating social media content such as TikTok, which I am honestly most active on.

“Gotta love TikTok for creative connections. What’s your ultimate comfort food?”

Mozzarella sticks from Applebee’s or Sonic. Love them hot and cheesy.

“Absolute classic. How would you say your writing has evolved over time?”

I started over ten years ago with just writing shorts and RP work with other writers. At that point I was barely really writing full paragraphs. Today I would say I am writing so much better but that wouldn't be possible without the team that stands behind me.

“That support system is everything. What’s one app you absolutely can’t live without?”

Libby. Without books I don't think I would be helpful to anyone. XD

“Same here. Digital libraries are lifesavers. Do you prefer writing series or standalone books?”

I love writing series honestly. I know a lot prefer standalones but for me a series allows me to explore and build the backstory and build a world unto its own.

“It’s such a rich way to develop characters. Quick quiz: name an Australian animal that’s not a kangaroo or koala.”

Yes. Box jellyfish.

“Dangerous but accurate. What’s your most irrational fear?”

I have a horrible fear of bugs in my ears. I can do them everywhere else but when they come near my ear I'm out.

“I felt that. What non-writing activities help spark your creativity?”

Listening to music, cosplaying, watching documentaries, and just being in nature help a lot.

“Do you write best in silence or with some noise?”

Background noise. I need a good show or music.

“Same here. Do you have a bucket list, and what’s right at the top?”

Semi. I really want to do a road trip around the US to be a true tourist.

“That sounds like a dream. What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?”

If you think everyone hates you, eat something. If you think you hate everyone, take a nap.

“That is genius. Is there a book you wish you had written?”

I wish I'd written The Help. It was such a good book.

“Let’s talk about your latest book. What inspired Nail Me Down?”

Nail Me Down was done for my partner and I. She's very blue collar and I'm gothic with a more white collar type job so it kinda just happened?

“I love that. Where do you usually write, and what would your dream setup look like?”

Often it's late at night in my bed with Bob's Burgers on in the background. I really love that show. Ideal? On the couch in my living room with my partner while we watch a show like SVU and I talk through my ideas.

“That sounds cozy and collaborative. What’s your favorite part of the writing process?”

The blueprinting. Where I write out the whole outline of the book or idea so I can work them out slowly into chapters.

“That’s such a great phase. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?”

Take the leap. Yes, it's scary but I promise you it's worth it. Someone wants to read your book.

“Facts. Okay, what’s the last thing you Googled?”

Didn't Bordertown have two seasons? I swear it used to.

“I think it did. Are you more of a plotter or a let-it-flow writer?”

I plot everything down to the layout and what I expect for the story. I didn’t always but it grew like that for me.

“And do you outline, or do you dive right in?”

Same as before. I outline everything.

“What’s the most unusual source of inspiration you’ve ever drawn from?”

Once, I built an entire book around a TikTok I saw when I opened the app. Before the app crashed and I can't find it anymore.

“That’s the most modern answer I’ve ever heard. What do you do when you hit a creative slump?”

Take a break from writing for a bit and listen to a book. Do something that doesn't require me to write and then come back.

“And how do you deal with self-doubt?”

I take a step back. I remind myself that every great person who's written started somewhere.

“That’s a solid perspective. What’s the hardest scene you’ve ever written?”

The third book of Cosmic Requiem Circle. Just the ending. If you've read it you will understand.

“I’ll definitely add it to my list. Who or what has influenced your writing the most?”

I would say a lot of mythology. Honestly it's not just Greek mythology. But Celtic, Norse, and even Jewish mythology.

“Before we wrap, any final book you wish you'd written?”

Still The Help. It was such a good book.

“Luci, thank you so much. This has been such a fun and fascinating interview. I know readers are going to love getting to know you.”

Thank you, Ajay. This was such a great time.

“To the readers:

Be sure to follow Lucinda on social media, links are down below. Show your support by grabbing a copy of their books, diving into those fantasy worlds, and most importantly, leave a review. We live for that feedback, and it helps more than you know.

Until next time!”