How did this story originate? What inspirations did you draw on?

The original inspo stems from a drunken debate about what makes Scarlett Johanson so appealing to casting directors for science fiction movies of a certain type, and how she must feel about it. What would it be like to be idealized for a form you didn’t choose? Why do we allow so much science fiction to frame women as technology to be used without challenge? I thought about my own comfort and enjoyment of fan service-y tropes but also my own frustration about how I’m treated in my life. And of course, Ira Levin’s The Stepford Wives is a forever inspiration to me but felt particularly apt in writing this story.

What is your writing space like? What do you like to have around for optimal creativity?

My writing process is very chaotic, like my brain. So, I write wherever and whenever the mood and opportunity strikes. I’ve written half a novel on my phone during commutes, poetry in gmail drafts and scenes on the back of old puzzle proofs. I do have a nice office I work out of, but it’s not the only place. The main things I need are: something to write with or on, music, fun stuff to look at when I need to not look at my screen, a cold beverage, a warm beverage, and a treat after.

What led you into writing genre fiction?

It doesn’t really feel like a choice. These are the narrative frames that I was raised on. I also like the ways genre fiction abstracts real issues in a way that makes them clearer and puts characters in such circumstances that you can explore such a wide range of experiences. And honestly, it’s just the most fun. I barely want to be in reality as it is.

What are you reading lately? What writers inspire you?

I often go through phases with types of books, but lately I’ve been going back and forth between spicy romances (mostly fantasy) and horror, which I think makes sense given my work. Writers who inspire me: Richard Calder, Ruth Ozeki, Sierra Simone, and Ottessa Moshfegh.

Other than writing, do you have any other creative pursuits? What do you do to relax?

I am an extremely extroverted and social person, so I am always out or hosting parties. This year I started hosting karaoke at a friend’s restaurant once a month and that has been such a joy. I’ve also been learning how to sew, which has been really fun. When I inevitably crash from over socializing, I watch anime, read, or play video or phone games.