1. What inspired this story and its characters?

The story was inspired by the dynamic relationships, raw emotions, and chaotic energy of the Outer Banks. MJ's complexity as a character came from wanting to explore the grey area of morality, loyalty, and love, while Rafe's journey was about the consequences of his choices. I wanted to bring those themes to life while adding new layers to the Outer Banks universe.

2. Why did MJ and Rafe's story have such a bittersweet ending?

MJ and Rafe's relationship was always built on chaos, passion, and unresolved pain. Their ending reflects that they were two flawed people trying to find solace in one another, but the world they lived in—and their own personal demons—were too much to overcome. It's a tragic love story, but it felt true to their characters and the narrative I wanted to tell.

3. What was the hardest scene to write?

Definitely the ending. Writing the deaths of two beloved characters and leaving MJ without a happy ending was gut-wrenching. I knew it would hurt readers as much as it hurt me, but it felt like the only way to stay authentic to the story.

4. Was MJ's ending planned from the beginning?

Not exactly! Originally, I envisioned a much more hopeful ending for MJ. But as the story unfolded, her choices and the circumstances led to a darker, more bittersweet conclusion. I wanted to explore the idea that not everyone gets closure or redemption, even when they deserve it. I toyed around with her finding out she was pregnant before the ending but ultimately decided against it as that pregnancy troupe wasn't true to her character. 

5. Do you think Rafe ever truly loved MJ?

Absolutely. Rafe's love for MJ was real, but it was also complicated by his own self-destructive tendencies and his struggle to feel worthy of love. In his own way, he saw MJ as his anchor, even if he couldn't always express it the right way.

6. Why did the Pogues and MJ's relationship fall apart?

The Pogues and MJ were fundamentally different. MJ's loyalty to Rafe created tension, and her inability to fully integrate into their group dynamic made her feel like an outsider. Both sides made mistakes, and the breakdown of trust was inevitable given the high stakes they faced.

7. What does the crown symbolize in the story?

The crown represents power, greed, and the lengths people will go to to chase something they believe will fix their lives. For Rafe, it symbolizes validation and revenge; for MJ, it is a way to prove herself; and for the others, it is the ultimate prize in their chaotic journey.

8. If MJ had taken a different path, could she and Rafe have had a happy ending?

Maybe. If they had both been able to confront their personal issues and grow, there's a chance they could have built something real and lasting. But their story was always tied to the chaos around them, which made it nearly impossible to break free and start fresh.

9. What was your favourite part of writing this story?

Exploring the intensity of MJ and Rafe's relationship was so much fun to write. They're two fiery, stubborn characters with undeniable chemistry, and capturing their highs and lows was such a rewarding challenge. I also loved weaving in the action-packed treasure hunt and seeing how all the characters evolved through it.

10. Will we see MJ or Rafe again in future stories?

I can't make any promises, but I'm not ruling anything out! I've grown so attached to these characters that it's hard to let them go completely. If inspiration strikes, you might see them again in some form.

For Readers to Answer

1 . Who was your favourite character in the story and why? 

2. Did you agree with MJ's decisions, or do you think she should have chosen a different path?3. How did you feel about Rafe and MJ's relationship? Was it doomed from the start, or could they have made it work ?

3. Which scene surprised or shocked you the most?

4. If you could change one thing about the ending, what would it be?

5. Do you think the Pogues' treatment of MJ and Rafe was justified, or was it too harsh?

Author's Note

Dear Readers,

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for joining me on this wild, emotional ride. Writing this story has been such an incredible journey, and knowing that so many of you stuck with it until the very end means the world to me. Your comments, theories, and support along the way have kept me motivated, even through the toughest scenes.

I know this ending may have been heartbreaking, but I hope it resonated with you in some way. MJ and Rafe's story was a labor of love, and while their journey may not have had the happiest ending, it felt true to who they were.

If you enjoyed this story, I'd love for you to check out my other works! I've written a Rafe-centered story that dives even deeper into his complexity, and I think fans of his character here will love seeing him in a new light. There are also plenty of other stories with adventure, romance, and messy, chaotic characters waiting for you to explore!

Thank you again for being such amazing readers and for allowing me to share my stories with you. I hope to see some familiar faces in the comment sections of my other books! Until then, take care, and happy reading.

With love,

Graeysonn