Â
Last week, I introduced you to Lukas Ritter, a talented young author I discovered via a means that’s becoming more and more infrequent in publishing: the slush pile. In celebration of the upcoming publication of his latest book, Monster Slayers, Lukas and I sat down and had a conversation Interview magazine style about D&D, the author-editor relationship, and how Monster Slayers came to be.
The book doesn’t come out until May 11. But you can preview the content of the book, right now by reading this fun short story that’s a prequel to the book: Monster Slayers: Training Day! After reading this, be sure to check out our hot-off-the-virtual-presses mini-D&D Adventure for young kids: Monster Slayers: Heroes of Hesiod. I edited and playtested this twice and I guarantee you’ll love it!
And now without further ado, please welcome Lukas Ritter!
 * * * * * * *
Nina H: Let’s start with the most important question. What is your favorite D&D monster?:
Lukas R: I know I'm going to steal your answer, but I'm going to go with beholder! They're just so unique in a twisted and fun way. I love that they have a hilariously inflated sense of entitlement—hive mothers are called The Ultimate Tyrant!—and that they appreciate the aesthetics of their maze-like lairs even while being total brutes. Plus they have minions! I can't help but be amused by the idea of these giant, floating, eye-covered heads screaming out orders to their minions while floating around shooting lasers from their pupils. I'd love to one day do a semi-comedic, Doctor Who-ish take on them.
I also really liked the ormyrr, a monster featured in A Practical Guide to Monsters. The summary of the creature accompanied with the illustration immediately brought to mind a clear, fun character. Which is why one is featured in Monster Slayers and may soon show up again in another book.
Lukas R: So the question is back to you: What is your favorite D&D monster? And word on the street is that you made a plush, baby beholder— any comment on that?
Read my answer!
