Interview With Author Meredith R. Lyons

You might recognize the name Meredith R. Lyons from her other books, Ghost Tamer and A Dagger of Lightning. I’m delighted to have Meredith back to discuss A Horn of Onyx, the sequel to A Dagger of Lightning. Meredith and I chat about writing book two of a trilogy, the key to crafting adult fantasy, and blood-thirsty unicorns.

Author Meredith R. Lyons

What is the premise of A Horn of Onyx, the sequel to A Dagger of Lightning?

We jump in right after A Dagger of Lightning ends, so readers don't have to wait! In this installment, Imogen has a modicum of control over her powers, but is still learning to navigate them and the rules of this planet. She has to learn to curb her impulsivity, and balance standing up for herself with listening, otherwise she's going to have a difficult time surviving the war that she's jumped into the middle of.

How was your process similar or different from writing the first book?

Book two of a trilogy is a challenge because you have to bridge the overall arc of the trilogy while still maintaining an in-book arc. Your characters have to grow in a satisfying way while still leaving room for more growth. I write like a chaos demon, which is usually really fun, but with Horn, I had to be mindful of the rules I'd already set for myself, as well as keep in mind where I eventually wanted to land.

What’s the story behind the blood-thirsty unicorn?

I don't want to give too many spoilers, but suffice it to say that unicorns do exist on Perimov. Imogen hasn't seen them before this book because they're incredibly bloodthirsty as a species, so the sidhe only use them for battle. They will pair up with a sidhe they deem worthy enough to use as a weapon and generally the sidhe try to pick someone with enough will of their own to manage a unicorn. Because Imogen is a telepath, she can talk to her unicorn. And he has just as strong a personality as she does.

What is the key to writing adult fantasy?

I think many people assume that because you're writing a world with a form of magic that you can do anything. I believe the key is to structure your magic system so that there are clear rules that the reader can follow. In order to be immersed in the world, they need to be able to understand it. If anything goes, it can feel very confusing and also like "cheating." You magic system must have limitations and a cost. 

Where can people get A Horn of Onyx?

Anywhere! But I encourage you to go order it from your local bookstore.

What are the best places to follow you?

I am most active on Instagram and Threads, but you can occasionally catch me on Facebook or TikTok. I do have a monthly newsletter that goes out on the first Tuesday of every month. You can subscribe through my website meredithraelyons.com and I giveaway a book each month!