Cass Biehn (they/them) writes messy queer characters in messier situations—and always with angsty kissing. They hold a Master of Library Science degree from Aberystwyth University in rainy Wales and currently live in the Utah desert, where they split their time between cosplaying and wrangling their dogs.
Cass’s debut novel, VESUVIUS, will release June 2025 from Peachtree Teen.
Learn more about them at cassbiehn.com or @cassbeewrites on Twitter and Instagram.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
The short answer is a song by Sufjan Stevens. The long answer: the chaos of 2020. VESUVIUS is a novel about a disaster that feels apocalyptic, like there is no escape, which is exactly how that summer felt. I channeled my disillusion with the state of the world into this story, wanting to find a sliver of blue sky through my characters. But VESUVIUS isn’t a pandemic book. It’s a book about challenging destiny, fighting for survival, and clinging to hope and healing.
Describe your dream book cover.
I was fortunate enough to get exactly my dream cover! When VESUVIUS was first announced, I floated the idea of having Chris from Arcane Gold Art do the cover to my editor. It turns out she and the lead designer at Peachtree Teen had already been itching to work with Chris for months. Chris was incredibly collaborative and creative and captured the essence of VESUVIUS perfectly: angst, romance, and the end of the world.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
VESUVIUS is finished, and I’m deep into drafting my next YA book, titled THOUGH THIS BE MADNESS. Loosely inspired by Hamlet, of course I’m reading (and re-reading) the play for inspiration, as well as a bunch of books about the Regency era. Other books that inspire me to continuously challenge and grow my craft: ICARUS by K. Ancrum, IF TOMORROW DOESN’T COME by Jen St. Jude, ANGELS BEFORE MAN by Rafael Nicolas, and DARK RISE by CS Pacat.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
One of my high school English teachers, Michelle Smith, was the first person to really look at me and see potential in my writing. Smith is incisive, wise, and kind, and she’s been my mentor for a decade now. She once said to me, “Be your best,” and I’m trying every day.
Where is your favorite place to write?
The Legendarium, a trans-owned fantasy bookstore in Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s my safe place. Going there feels like stepping into a hobbit house, and the employees make the best peanut butter and berry latte I’ve ever had.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?
I want queer survivors to feel seen, more than anything. VESUVIUS explores complex themes of trauma, many of which were inspired by my own experiences. But although trauma impacts us, it doesn’t define us. I hope the book helps readers recognize that they deserve kindness, patience, and empathy.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.