An Interview with Lailo Lema
Lailo Lema is a dark fiction author. Her work blurs the line between desire and dread. She is a pioneer of mixed genre, her favorite being erotic horror and gothic fairytales. Her work masterfully uses synesthesia and artistic design. She believes the right words can do more than entice but wreck someone as well.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
I love listening to YSF audios; I made some audio stories like him and eventually wanted to move on to putting my work onto paper so that I could make my stories more interesting. I was influenced by Devin McCamey and other horror writers as well. What really stuck with me is the passion to excite readers with adrenaline that is unique to desire and dread, two emotions I find fascinating.
Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The title of my story is Off and it was surprisingly easy to find the title because the main character is not quite right in the mind and desires nothing more than for her lovers to prove their love to her through dangerous rituals. It’s not very often that a title comes to me so simply. I often have to work hard for one to come to mind, so I would say that I got lucky this time!
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
Oh my god, let’s see…I’m a big fan of dark R&B and alt pop so I’d have to go with something that showcases my main character’s obsessive behavior. A song that comes to mind is Woo by Rhianna. It has that edgy flare and I can definitely see my main character singing this song with vengeance toward the end. It has the perfect build-up for the moment where we get to see the main character for who she really is…not so innocent.
What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?
The most rewarding part of publishing was receiving feedback. I love to hear what readers enjoyed about the story and whether they connected with the character. It makes me a better writer, and it makes me thrilled to write more. Just seeing the full story come together is so exciting. Reader responses are the cherry on top.
What creative projects are you currently working on?
I am currently working on my debut novel, Sick Punt. I can’t say too much yet, but it will involve a living doll FMC, a bully boyfriend, humiliation rituals. It is gothic fairy tale meets erotic horror. The perfect story for those who grew up with stories of a dark, whimsical atmosphere, but are now all grown up. I am really looking forward to its release.
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