1. Out of the Easy present
New Orleans so vividly that it’s almost a character in itself. Why is creating
a strong sense of place so important to you?
A strong sense of place helps
immerse the reader in the story. If they can truly see and feel the setting,
the overall reading experience will be more rewarding.
2.
I loved that Josie didn’t get everything that she wanted and deserved. Why did
you decide to do that?
Small steps felt more realistic
for Josie. She had a lot to come both emotionally and socially. She experienced
such hardship growing up and I don’t think those hurdles would just suddenly
disappear. The hurdles would remain, but she would become stronger, able to
jump them more easily.
3.
Are you working on anything at the moment? Can you share anything about it?
Yes! I’m hard at work on my
third book, a novel set at the end of WWII. I’m neck deep in research right
now, trying to track down bits of important information. I’ve always said that
writing historical fiction is like being a detective. I love that aspect of the
process!
And a few quick ones:
4.
Current obsession?
Tea from Maggie Frères! I visited
the tea salon in Paris last month and stocked up on a huge variety. I’ve been
obsessed with tasting them all now!
5.
Favourite historical era?
I don't know if I have a favorite,
but I’d love to write a story set in the 1920’s or 1930’s. It’s such a rich
period and I know I could dig up all sorts of delicious secrets and scandals!
6.
What are you reading at the moment?
I’m reading BELLE EPOQUE by
Elizabeth Ross. It will be released in the US in June and in the UK in
September. Here are the two covers:
US COVER:
UK COVER:
A big thank you to Ruta for
taking the time to answer my questions! I highly recommend picking up a copy of
Out
of the Easy and I’ll definitely be getting myself a copy of Between Shades of Grey.
Sophie
Great interview! I love the idea of the hurdles not moving, but Josie growing stronger. :) I loved Out of the Easy, and I really recommend Between Shades of Gray too! Plus I can't wait to find out more about Ruta's newest book! :)
ReplyDeleteGreat interview, I'd love to read something set in the 1920's, it's such a rich time, both US and UK :D
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