An Interview with Bard Lyre

Bard Lyre hails from the Midlands, where she teaches English. She owns more books than is necessary. Or healthy.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

I’ve always loved fantasy fiction—from Tamora Pierce to Brandon Sanderson. However, the dawn of LitRPG has really grabbed my imagination and, having fallen in love with stories such as Dungeon Crawler Carl, the Cradle series and Ten Realms.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

I wanted to create my own world to explore this genre and, in particular, to have a main character who was a bit different to the typical young, power-hungry man.

Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

My title, Darkhelm, is the nickname of my protagonist—when you read my story, you will see it makes perfect sense!

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

I think something suitably dark and brooding! Evanescence perhaps?

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I work as an English teacher—so I have used my experience there to help with crafting my stories.

What books did you read (for research or comfort) throughout your writing process?

I read loads of Robin Hobb and Shirtaloon!

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

I hope they enjoy seeing someone a bit different as a main character!

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.