In this spicy new episode of Dear Fantasy Author, host Hannah Michelle sits down with New York Times bestselling author, Jade Presley, to talk all things The Never List, a steamy "why choose" romantasy packed with magic, myth, and four very swoon-worthy love interests. This book became an instant book club favorite—and the DFR team was so excited to get the inside scoop directly from the author herself!
Jade shares how she built this unforgettable fantasy world (including the inspiration behind the gem-themed cities), why she wanted her magic system to feel earned, and what it was like stepping into a new pen name to write romantasy after years of YA. She also opens up about crafting a heroine who doesn't have to choose—and why giving us four book boyfriends just made sense.
This conversation covers everything from reader feedback and cliffhanger chaos to the logistics of balancing four legends (and their distinct love languages). There's also a sneak peek at what readers can expect in Book 2—plus a few teaser quotes, easter eggs, and fan-favorite moments to revisit.
The episode features both spoiler-free and spoiler-filled segments (with clear warnings and timestamps in the show notes).
Whether you've already read The Never List or are just fantasy-curious and spice-positive, this episode is packed with worldbuilding, swoons, and plenty of why-choose energy!
Segment Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:34 Spoiler-Free Segment
16:08 Spoiler-Filled Segment
47:17 About Dear Fantasy Reader
*Please note that ads may affect the timestamps by a few minutes*
THE NEVER LIST KEY DETAILS PDF GUIDE (Patreon): https://www.patreon.com/posts/key-details-list-130119001?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link
THE NEVER LIST KEY DETAILS VISUAL GUIDE (Instagram) - https://www.instagram.com/p/DKNcia4vp64/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Ready to add one more book to your TBR? Order The Never List: https://amzn.to/4kVRAGy
Follow AUTHOR's Journey:
Website - www.jadepresley.com
TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@jadepresleyauthor
Instagram - www.instagram.com/jadepresleyauthor/
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/people/Jade-Presley/100078448732792/
Want more from Dear Fantasy Reader?
The DFRP chapters so far:
- Season 1: Fourth Wing Deep Dive Through the Lens of Iron Flame
- Season 2: Dear Fantasy Author — our ongoing author interview series featuring your favorite romantasy writers!
- Season 3: Dear Fantasy Community — our UPCOMING & ongoing series with industry experts where we pull the curtain back on different aspects of the book community learning what all goes into getting these books to our hands!
Visit the Dear Fantasy Reader website for more info: https://www.dearfantasyreader.com
DEAR FANTASY READER POD MERCH: https://dear-fantasy-reader-podcast.printify.me/
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