MORE THAN JUST FANTASY: Jade Presley on Fated Mates, Escapism, and the Power of THE NEVERLIST

New York Times bestselling author Jade Presley talks with Romantasy Illustrated about her breakout fantasy romance, the journey of hybrid publishing, and writing a heroine who gets everything she never knew she needed—times four.

"If you're looking to connect with raw human experiences—but want a female character who is worshiped and loved by multiple partners—then the world of THE NEVERLIST is a safe, fantastical place to land."

The Heart of THE NEVERLIST

THE NEVERLIST is a spicy “why choose” fantasy romance featuring Rylee, a fierce and relatable main character who finds connection and healing through her four fated mates—Princes Kal, Axl, Pierce, and Jax. Currently planned as a trilogy, the series gives readers a space to fully escape while exploring deep emotional resonance.

“Each of the males fills the emotional, mental, and physical voids Rylee may not have even known she had.”

Presley reflected on building the men in Rylee’s life to complement her needs—whether that’s laughter, softness, challenge, or care. She posed the question: “While one man might fulfill some of those roles—why not have four?”

A Hybrid Author’s Path

Before she was Jade Presley, she was Molly E. Lee, a traditionally published YA author with Entangled Publishing. After self-publishing her Shattered Isles series—which found massive love on BookTok—Presley leaned into the adult fantasy space

“I’ll burn the whole fucking world down and laugh the ash out of my lungs.”

“I was traditionally published before I self-published, which is far less common... After learning all I could from traditional publishing, it was cool to self-publish.”

When Red Tower Books sought a high-heat fantasy romance with strong plot elements, Presley pitched THE NEVERLIST—and found the perfect publishing partner.

The Power of Representation (and Boundaries)

With a discreet cover and a story full of heat, emotion, and growth, THE NEVERLIST is Red Tower’s first “why choose”title to hit major retailers like Target and Walmart. Presley was mindful of that reach.

“The content within is not for everyone. I wanted the book to feel safe for readers new to the genre.”

She introduces each love interest slowly, allowing the relationships to build before any group dynamics unfold. For many, this has become their gateway into the “why choose” subgenre.

“Readers have told me it was their first 'why choose'... and that it sparked a love they didn’t know they were missing.”

Inspiration and Craft

Presley credits authors like Katee Robert (Neon Gods) and Nikki St. Crowe (Vicious Lost Boys) for influencing her. Like them, she ensures every POV in THE NEVERLIST is distinct and immersive.

“Readers can shift between each perspective and know exactly whose head they’re in—and feel emotionally connected.”

She begins with detailed character profiles, then layers in emotional and tonal voice before constructing each scene. Her process is grounded in intentional plotting but allows room for characters to evolve.

Why the Pen Name?

“To have a boundary. I wouldn’t want my younger readers picking up one of my adult books without knowing what they’re getting into.”

While THE NEVERLIST isn’t currently planned to explore MMFMM dynamics, Presley doesn’t rule it out. “It’s not on the table right now—but that doesn’t mean it never will be,” she said.

And if you’re worried about toxic dynamics? Don’t be. Her four princes are cooperative, generous, and—most importantly—ride or die for each other.

A Dream Realized

Hitting the New York Times bestseller list with THE NEVERLIST was a milestone—but the emotional impact it’s had on readers means even more.

“I’m very grateful and honored that a strong female character like Rylee can inspire and encourage readers.”

Rylee’s story offers empowerment, fantasy, and a sense of healing—wrapped in an epic, spicy adventure.

On Community and Connection

When asked what the bookish community means to her, Presley didn’t hesitate.

“It’s the lifeblood of everything. I’ve always been a reader—even before social media. If you're a reader, you just get it.”

“These stories would just be words on paper without readers.”

Jade’s Process

Presley is a meticulous plotter. She builds extensive character sheets before writing, then layers in major and minor plot points. While her characters sometimes take over the story’s direction, she typically sticks close to the original plan.

What’s Next?

With two more books planned for THE NEVERLIST trilogy, Presley’s world of magic, romance, and emotional discovery is just getting started.

THE KINGS LIST, May 19, 2026

They said the trials were over.

They were wrong.

I survived the Choosing. I claimed my mates. I became immortal. But the kings weren’t finished with us yet.

Four princes. Four thrones. And a final season designed to decide if we’re worthy to rule. Every task is a test. Every smile is a lie. The people judge. The council votes. And the kings are waiting for us to fail.

I was never meant to be queen. I was an Ashlander who broke into a palace searching for her sister. Now I stand beside the Legends of Chaos, holding power the kingdom fears and love fierce enough to burn it all down.

To win the crowns, we’ll have to survive the Kings’ List.

Failure isn’t an option.

Because this time, we’re not just fighting for the throne—we’re fighting for each other.

“Maybe someday, I’ll have time to look for the kind of lover who can make me feel safe and excited, understood and destroyed all at once. Someone I can be myself around and trust with all my heart’s desires.”