It seems the second time’s the charm for author Lisa Springer. I recently spoke with her about her sophomore release, Who’s All Going (to Die)?
Tell me about your latest book.
My latest (sophomore YA) book is Who’s All Going (to Die), a contemporary horror about a teen girl, Ariana, who gets invited to the soft launch of a luxury wellness resort on a remote island off Barbados. What starts as the perfect escape quickly turns sinister as the resort’s luxurious wellness practices begin to take a deadly turn. Ariana realizes that paradise may not be as safe as it seems, and survival becomes the ultimate goal for the teen guests.
Why did you decide to write it?
I’ve always been fascinated by cults and how seemingly reasonable individuals can end up in dangerous situations. That curiosity inspired Who’s All Going (to Die). I wanted to explore the tension between the appeal of wellness culture and the risks of following persuasive leaders without question. There’s something inherently chilling about a place that promises safety and rejuvenation while concealing sinister intentions. I was interested in showing how easily someone can be drawn into vulnerability, especially in a setting that subtly pressures them to surrender control.
Who is your favorite character and why?
I love Ariana, the protagonist. She’s smart, empathetic, and determined, but she also struggles with real-world anxiety and the uncertainty of her future, especially after a volleyball injury. Many of the characters fall easily under the spell of Juniper-Moon, the resort’s general manager and her promises of transformation. Ariana asks questions and approaches everything with skepticism. She challenges advice, which puts her at odds with other guests and resort staff, creating a tense undercurrent throughout the story. I hope her vulnerability and bravery makes her someone readers can root for. My second favorite character would definitely be Ariana’s dog, Quincy. I think he’s probably the true hero of the story.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I’ve always loved books. Saturday trips to the library were my favorite part of the week. I was a huge Nancy Drew fan and read thrillers, mysteries, and anything spooky. There’s nothing quite like the way a story can transport you, make you feel, and even change the way you see the world. I think everyone deserves that experience, that chance to get completely lost in a good book.
If you could pick another profession, what would it be and why?
I think I’d be a librarian. I love the idea of helping people discover new stories and creating a space where curiosity is celebrated. Libraries were where my own love of books and reading began, and I’d love to be part of a place where kids can experience that same sense of joy and discovery.
What author would you fangirl over?
Hands down. Tiffany D. Jackson. She’s an absolute master of psychological tension and plot twists, and the way she creates compelling characters is incredible.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I recently read Love You To Death, a thriller by Christina Dotson about two friends whose wedding crashing habit turns deadly. This one had me hooked from start to finish. I was fortunate to get my hands on an advance copy of Our Vicious Oaths by N.E Davenport and loved it!
What books are you most excited to read next?
I’m a mood reader, and my list is unbelievably long. Next up, is likely The Princess and PI by Nikki Payne. Also excited for The Scammer by Tiffany D. Jackson, An Ocean Apart by Jill Tew and Kamilah Cole’s An Arcane Inheritance, all coming out this year.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently drafting my next novel, it’s a young adult dystopian thriller. It’s a pivot from horror, but I want to keep challenging myself and my readers to question the world around them.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
When readers pick up Who’s All Going (to Die)? I hope they ask themselves, “What would I do in that situation?” I hope they feel that mix of fear and curiosity as they progress through the book.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Who’s All Going (to Die)? by Lisa Springer.
To learn more about Lisa Springer, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Website: https://lisaspringerbooks.com/
Contact: https://lisaspringerbooks.com/contact/
Instagram: Instagram.com/lisaspringerwrites