Interview With Author Lione Youki
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a YA fantasy author, visual designer, and lifelong storyteller currently based in Texas. I’ve written and published two books in my debut series, The Domed Cities Saga, with more on the way. I’m also a graduate student and higher education professional, which means I often find myself balancing fantasy worlds by night and real-world logistics by day. Writing has been my escape, my anchor, and my rebellion all at once.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest release is Domed Cities: Children of the Veil (Book Two of the series). It was inspired by a blend of my love for elemental magic, political intrigue, and the concept of truth hidden beneath control. I’ve always been fascinated by how systems shape people—and what happens when those people awaken to their power. The characters in this book didn’t ask to be heroes, but the world gave them no other choice.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have a habit of hearing scenes before I write them—as if they’re playing out like a movie trailer in my head, music and all. Sometimes I even dream dialogue or entire chapters, which means I wake up scribbling notes in the dark. I also design character visuals and scene art while I write—it helps me feel more connected to the world I’m building.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lois Lowry’s The Giver was one of my first dystopian influences—it showed me that quiet stories can hold massive emotional weight. Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen, Leigh Bardugo’s Shadow and Bone, and Sabaa Tahir’s An Ember in the Ashes all played huge roles in inspiring how I approach power, voice, and rebellion. I also love poetic dystopian writing styles like Scythe by Neal Shusterman and The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently writing Book Three of the Domed Cities Saga while expanding the world visually through character artwork and lore development. I’m also exploring digital collectibles and serialized story options to bring readers deeper into the saga’s universe.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far, I’ve found that combining targeted Facebook groups with consistent TikTok/Instagram Reels content has been effective. I use Linktree to centralize everything, and I’ve built a promotional reference sheet with links, bios, and visual assets to make submitting to promo sites much easier. Building brand consistency has been key.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t wait until it’s perfect—start sharing your story now. Build your world out loud. Readers connect with your voice just as much as your plot. And always back up your work—twice.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Write the book you need to read.” That advice pushed me to finish when I wasn’t sure anyone else would get it. Turns out—others needed it too.
What are you reading now?
I’m rereading Shadow and Bone and Fourth Wing to stay immersed in the genre I love most. I also dip into lore-building fantasy guides and indie titles between chapters of my own
What’s next for you as a writer?
Beyond Book Three, I’m planning spin-offs, a companion lore guide, and potentially a graphic novel adaptation. I also want to explore physical merch like collectible bookmarks, posters, and signed editions for fans. Truly building a franchise and sharing the world of Elaris to others.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Giver by Lois Lowry
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
Scythe by Neal Shusterman
The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon
Author Websites and Profiles
Lione Youki’s Social Media Links
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