A multi-genre author shares Luna Kayne’s journey and creative process
Luna Kayne discusses her multi-genre writing approach, her award-winning novel Step Darkly, her stance against AI, and how her Manitoba environment influences her creative process.
Luna Kayne is a literary force to be reckoned with, captivating readers with her steamy, spicy romances that span a multitude of genres, including mafia and military romance, BDSM, suspense, humour, action, and paranormal. Based in the serene landscapes of Manitoba, Canada, Luna crafts stories that are as diverse as they are engaging, each one a testament to her boundless creativity and storytelling prowess. Her novel, *Step Darkly*, earned her a bronze medal in the 2021 Independent Publisher Book Awards, a remarkable achievement that highlights her talent and dedication to her craft. Luna’s commitment to authenticity is evident in her staunch opposition to generative AI, choosing instead to rely on her own imagination and the skills of talented collaborators to bring her stories to life.
We at Reader’s House Magazine are thrilled to present an exclusive interview with Luna Kayne, delving into the mind of an author who defies genre boundaries and champions the art of storytelling. Her unique approach to writing, combined with her passion for creating complex characters and intricate plots, makes her a standout figure in the literary world. In this interview, Luna shares insights into her creative process, the inspiration behind her award-winning work, and her views on the evolving landscape of publishing. Join us as we explore the world of Luna Kayne, a writer whose stories promise to enthral and entertain.
Luna Kayne captivates with her diverse storytelling, creating compelling narratives that defy genre boundaries and celebrate authentic creativity.
You write across a variety of genres, from mafia and military romance to BDSM and paranormal. What draws you to these genres, and how do you maintain a balance between the different elements—suspense, action, and spice—in your stories?
I can’t stay in my own lane when it comes to writing. I’m never attracted to a specific genre. I’m drawn to the story that often starts as a single thought, and then evolves. As for balance, my stories vary in how many spicy scenes are in the books and it is all based on the story. If the plot evolves more around their relationship, then there may be more spicy scenes. If my main characters are in danger or on the run, then there may be less.
Your novel Step Darkly won a bronze medal in the 2021 Independent Publisher Book Awards. What was the inspiration behind that story, and how did it feel to be recognized for your work on such a prestigious platform?
Step Darkly came about when I started posting chapters on a serialized reading app to try it out. I could post a chapter every couple of days and readers would pay to read my book as I wrote it. For Step Darkly, I wanted a story that was an easy, straightforward enemies to lovers that wouldn’t require me to do a lot of research or weren’t too complicated because I couldn’t go back and change something in an earlier chapter to better fit the narrative as people had already read it. To be recognized for Step Darkly when I was still very new to writing was amazing. It was a boost to my confidence as an author and I’m grateful for the experience.
You’ve been vocal about your stance against generative AI in the writing, design, publishing, and marketing of your books. Could you share more about why this is so important to you and how you approach the creative process without relying on AI tools?
Generative AI came to be in the work of countless artists through the unauthorized scraping of their content. I’m not sure this can ever be undone. I work with talented and experienced models, photographers, editors, artists, translators, and cover designers who are insanely creative, and I believe in paying for those talents, not taking from them. That being said, my process is fairly straightforward. I open up a new document and start writing. I used to think everyone thought like I did: having a continuous stream of thoughts, stories, and scenes bouncing around in their heads like they were constantly watching movies in their minds. To me, writing is not something I need to do quickly. It’s the journey, not the destination, and I enjoy the process too much.
In Controlling Interests, the plot revolves around a complicated power dynamic involving bosses, step-siblings, and secrets. How do you approach writing such intense and layered relationships, and what challenges do you face when developing characters with such high stakes?
I approached Controlling Interests understanding that I had three unique characters. They each came to the table with their own experiences, goals, desires and fears. The main challenge I face is keeping each character separate from each other and maintaining their unique voice while making sure they work with each other in a way that doesn’t go against who they are. As they each developed, I had to remain mindful of where they came from, how they grew and what their happily ever after was going to look like.
In Cruel Saint, the relationship between Ryder and Amara is one filled with dark obsession and intense emotions. What’s your process for developing these deeply emotional, high-conflict dynamics while keeping readers invested in both the romance and the suspense?
Every story starts with what type of relationship I want to write. Do I want them to start off liking each other? Do I want them to have a history? What is it between them that will push the story along? Why do I care about my characters? I’m a fan of angst, conflict and tension, and a good plot twist is just the icing on the cake for me. It’s a matter of setting who I am and what I personally believe aside, getting into their heads, and going back and forth between the characters until I have something that drives me to want to know more about them.
You live on an acreage in Manitoba, which sounds like a peaceful setting. How does your environment influence your writing, and do you find that your dislike of long winters impacts your productivity or creativity during those months?
My dislike of long winters only affects my desire to leave the house. I find the winter months are when I do most of my writing. As much as I love having my family home with me, I am most productive when I am alone so I tend to write when they are at work and in school. I have my headphones on and am either listening to specific music, or white noise to block out the world around me.
This was fun. Thank you.
