Interview with Dana Bate, author The Girls’ Guide To Love And Supper Clubs

A few months ago, I won Dana Bate’s debut, The Girls’ Guide To Love And Supper Clubs from Hyperion Publishing. I was very excited to read the book because the plot sounded funny and sweet- and, I LOVED that cover (I mean LOOK at it- who wouldn’t love a cover like that?!)

Lucky for me- Dana agreed to be interviewed on Traveling With T!

Interview with Dana Bate, author of The Girls’ Guide To Love And Supper Clubs

Dana- Thank you so much for stopping by Traveling With T for an interview.

Thanks so much for having me!

Dana- what was the inspiration for The Girls’ Guide to Love and Supper Clubs?

Before I even started writing, I knew I wanted to write a story that involved food. But I also wanted to write a story that was fresh and fun – a new food angle or setting that hadn’t really been used before. Then in the fall of 2009, when I was living in London for a brief stint with my husband, I came across an article about a woman in London who hosted an underground supper club out of her flat. She turned her tiny apartment into a secret restaurant, and people would come from all over and pay to eat in her home. The idea really captured my imagination, and shortly thereafter, I began what would eventually become THE GIRLS’ GUIDE TO LOVE AND SUPPER CLUBS.

When creating characters, do you find that you base them on people you know or create them from your own imagination?

I tend to create characters from my own imagination. That said, although I never base one character on one specific person, I’ve definitely combined attributes of various people into one character – sort of like throwing a bunch of different ingredients into a bowl and baking them up into something new.

Who is your favorite character in The Girls’ Guide to Love and Supper Clubs?

Oooh, tough call! I love them all, but I suppose that’s because I created them. I do love Hannah, though. As her character developed, I felt as if she were someone I could know in real life – sometimes funny, sometimes infuriating, confused, goodhearted. I had so much fun writing her.

Can you describe The Girls’ Guide to Love and Supper Club in 15 words or less?

A woman stuck in an unfulfilling job and doomed relationship opens an underground supper club.

Dana- tell us about your writing space. Do you have a space or a routine?

I tend to write in my office, though I have been known to head to a coffee shop or bookstore when I need a change of scenery. I recently had a baby, so at the moment my routine is a bit of a work in progress, but before that, I would start writing at 9:00 a.m. and write until I’d written at least 1,000 words, preferably more. My rule was that if I met my word goal by 10:00 a.m., great – the rest of the day was mine. But if I didn’t meet my word goal until 10:00 p.m., so be it – I’d be writing until 10:00 p.m. The reality was usually somewhere in between. With a baby now in the mix…I’ll get back to you on how that all works out 😉.

The Girls’ Guide to Love and Supper Clubs is chick lit. Why do you think chick lit sells so well?

Does it? I feel like I’m always hearing that chick lit’s moment has passed. I don’t think the moment has passed at all, but I think some people balk at the term “chick lit” or use it (totally unfairly) as a derogatory term. Whatever you call it, I love a fun, breezy read, especially on vacation. I love heavy books, too, but chick lit provides a great breather from those more serious books. I think other people feel that way, too, especially when real life can be serious enough. It’s great to escape through a fun story. That isn’t to say chick lit has to be mindless or vapid. Some of my favorite chick lit mixes a deeper message along with the humor.

Hannah opens an underground supper club and it changes her life in many ways- some humorous, some not. Dana, how did you decide on an underground supper club as being part of the plot?

After reading that article I mentioned above, I knew I had to make an underground supper club part of the story. It sounded so fun – and so risky. I mean, this woman turned her apartment into a restaurant, without the approval of the health department or anyone else! What if someone got food poisoning? Weren’t there a zillion things that could go wrong? The setting seemed ripe for mishaps and secrecy – not to mention culinary adventures.

Dana- what are you working on next? Do you have an idea for a future book?

I’m working on my next book as I type! I recently landed a two-book deal with Kensington in the US and Constable & Robinson in the UK. I’m thrilled! I can’t tell you much about my next book yet, but like my first book, it involves family, relationships, humor, and, of course, food.

*Special thanks to Dana Bate for agreeing to be interviewed!

Dana Bate, when not working on her future books or taking care of her new baby- can be found on Facebook and Twitter. Dana also has a website! Dana is also a 2012-2013 Deb at The Debutante Ball! Here is an article she recently posted: Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid.

To read Traveling With T’s review of The Girls’ Guide To Love And Supper Clubs, visit here.

Interview with Emily Liebert, author of You Knew Me When

Emily Liebert, debut author of You Knew Me When, has stopped by to talk today about her book- and to make someone very happy: She’s graciously offered to give away a book and the Zoya nail polish that was created especially for this book! A great book AND pretty nail polish- oh be still my heart!

Interview with Emily Liebert, author of You Knew Me When

What was the inspiration for You Knew Me When?

I’ve always been interested in female friendships and how bonds can be severed and mended over time. When I was younger, I had a best friend who promptly dumped me as soon as I started dating my first serious boyfriend. We reconnected years later, but it was never the same.

Emily- the role of an author is changing. At one point, before social media, an author did not have Facebook or Twitter. Now, most authors have, at the minimum, those 2 services. In your opinion, why is social media so important for authors? Is it more or less important for debut authors?

Social media plays a major role in publicity for most authors and especially for debut authors. It’s the fastest and most efficient way of targeting a large group of people all at the same time. And, if you’re posting information via a fan page, even better—you know you already have a captive audience. For obvious reasons, Facebook was integral in promoting my first book—Facebook Fairytales. Now, with my debut novel, I regularly use Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Pinterest, and LinkedIn. I’m also getting into Instragram. Social media is also an excellent tool in the way of networking. I’ve met so many professionals through these various outlets who’ve helped me along the way and vice-versa. I’ve long maintained that there seems to be a generosity of the human spirit via social media that doesn’t necessarily exist in the “real world.”

How long did it take to write You Knew Me When?

I’m fast! So it took me about five months. I just finished writing my second novel in about four months. Of course, that’s only for a first draft. After that, there’s an editing process which takes a couple of months.

How involved were you in the choosing of the cover for You Knew Me When?

I’ve been so fortunate that my fabulous publisher, Penguin, has allowed me to be a part of the process every step of the way. When it came time to design the cover, my editor and I brainstormed and came up with two directions we thought would work. Then she took our ideas to Penguin’s talented designers and they ran with one of our concepts. When I first saw the cover, I was blown away by how they transformed our nugget of an idea into something so vibrant and eye-catching. Right now, we’re in the process of discussing ideas for the cover of my second novel—so fun!

Do you have a writing space? Or a writing routine?

Oh yes! I have a routine for everything and writing is no exception. I work out of a home office which is far removed from the main area of the house—I have two little boys (ages 3 and 4), so it would be difficult to concentrate if my office was right near, say, their playroom. It’s really the best of both worlds. Working from home allows me the time to write in privacy and—at the same time—take lots of breaks to have meals with my kids, play with them, and pick them up at school and camp. I like to think of myself as a full time author and a full time mom, even though I have help in place! When I’m in working mode, I usually write for about four hours/day—in the morning and early afternoon. The rest of my working time is spent on publicity, partnerships, conference calls and all the other things (outside of writing) that go with publishing a book! If I get a lot of writing done Monday-Thursday, sometimes I’ll give myself Friday off from writing to give my brain time to “think.”

You Knew Me When is a debut novel. Do you have advice for other writers who have debut novels releasing soon? Did someone give you advice that really helped during this time?

My advice is to be your own best publicist and to hire one, if you have the means. I have an excellent in-house publicist at Penguin, but one person can’t do everything, especially when they have other books to concentrate on. So I hired an independent publicist for five months surrounding the launch. And I pound the pavement every day devising ways to get the book in front of as many eyes as possible. You can write a masterpiece, but if no one knows it exists, you’re in trouble! I also tell debut authors that you have to stay passionate and believe in yourself. This is not the time to be modest! I’ve had so much great advice from friends and colleagues—including my dear friend Kerry Kennedy whom I worked with on her book, Being Catholic Now. She gave me a wonderful quote for the cover of You Knew Me When. My literary agent, Alyssa Reuben, has offered invaluable advice along the way, as has my editor, Kerry Donovan. My author friend Jill Kargman has been a huge supporter as well.

When writing You Knew Me When– did you, Emily, ever think about the book potentially being made into a movie? Do you have a dream cast in mind?

I always think big! So, yes, I have thought about it in great detail. Not only that, but there are producers/production companies currently reading the book. As it happens, I do have a dream cast in mind! I’d love to see Emily Blunt in the role of Katherine, Kate Hudson in the role of Laney, Helen Mirren in the role of Luella, and Jake Gyllenhaal in the role of Grant. Don’t worry, if they’re not available, I have plenty of other names!

How did you create the characters in You Knew Me When? Do you have a favorite character?

I based them on people I know. (So watch out!) It’s hard to pick a favorite, but I’d have to say Katherine. I see a lot of myself in her and also a lot of things I’d like to change about myself in her!

If you were asked to inscribe You Knew Me When at a book signing with your favorite line from the book- what would it be?

“Every woman needs a best friend or a sister.”

Will you be going on a book signing tour with You Knew Me When?

Yes! I already have 10 appearances lined up—from multiple stops in New York to Vermont to Connecticut to California for the launch at Barnes & Noble at The Grove in Los Angeles! And there will be many more to come. They can all be found on the events page of my website: http://www.emilyliebert.com/events/

Emily- what are you working on next? Can you reveal any hints about your next book?

I have a second novel coming out in September 2014! I just finished writing the first draft and sent it to my editor. This book is also about friendship and about finding happiness. The characters and plot are very different, but the themes of love and relationships remain the same.

*Special thanks to Emily Liebert for agreeing to be interviewed!

Emily Liebert is an award-winning author, New York Times bestselling editor, and TV personality.

Liebert’s debut novel, You Knew Me When, will publish on September 3, 2013 and a second novel to follow will publish in September 2014, both with Penguin Group USA.

Her first book, Facebook Fairytales, is available across the globe.

Liebert has been featured by: NBC’s Today Show, The Rachael Ray Show, Anderson, FOX News, NBC’s LXTV, Oprah Radio, Martha Stewart Radio, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Woman’s Day, The New York Post, The New York Daily News, The Chicago Tribune, Boston Herald, and Celebrity Parents Magazine, among many others.

She has also served as a spokesperson for Microsoft, appearing on TV and radio stations nationwide.

If you liked my interview- be sure and come back on Wednesday for an Author Spotlight! If you’ve read You Knew Me When– drop by and tell Emily you LOVED it! Here’s the info: website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Goodreads, Instagram and Pinterest.

Giveaway information: Simply comment on this post- make sure to include your email address- you may use the AT and DOT. Giveaway is open to US residents only (sorry!) Giveaway begins September 2nd and ends September 9th at 11:59pmEST. Winner will be announced September 10th.

Look for my review of You Knew Me When to be posted this week!

Interview with Katherine Center, author of The Lost Husband

Today Katherine Center, author of The Lost Husband, stops by to talk about her new book (which made Deep South Magazine’s Summer Reading List 2013!)

Katherine will be back on Thursday to discuss #literarycrush and #literaryconfessions- among other things!

Interview with Katherine Center

What was the inspiration for The Lost Husband?

I have a childhood friend who lives on a goat farm. He and his wife actually quit their city jobs and moved out to the country to raise goats, make cheese, and live the good life. Several years ago, we took our kids out to visit them and see the farm, and I was totally amazed at how charming it was. By the end of the weekend, I knew I wanted to try to set a book on a goat farm.

Are any of the characters in The Lost Husband based on people in real life? Or are they just characters you imagined?

The people in The Lost Husband are all fictional. Writing stories is kind of like making a collage. You take bits and pieces from everywhere—something you dreamed, a story your mom told you, something your son said, a haircut you saw on somebody in the grocery store—and you mix them all together in the service of your story.

That said, some of my characters do have traits of people I know. The way that Aunt Jean is such a great listener and can find a way to care about whatever Libby’s talking about? That’s my awesome mom, right there. My husband is a volunteer firefighter, so I snagged that piece of O’Connor’s character from him. And Libby reminds me of me in certain ways—especially when she’s worrying too much. Need to work on that.

Can you describe The Lost Husband in 10 words or less?

A woman finds a new life after losing her husband.

(Exactly ten! Whew!)

Will you be going on a book signing tour?

PEOPLE Magazine invited me to a book party they had up in New York (and gave The Lost Husband a great review) right after the book came out, so I went up to NYC for that. And I’ve done lots of events around Texas. Luckily, I’m able to do a lot online (YES—I will Skype with your book club!!), which is great for me, since I’m a mom, and it’s always so hard to leave my little ones!

Do you have a writing space? A writing routine?

If I could conjure a perfect writing routine, I would wake up, make coffee, and sit right down to write (preferably in a gorgeous historic estate with a sunroom overlooking a river). As it is, I get up and scramble around in the mornings, getting everybody off to school. Once that’s done, I take a deep breath and, on a good day, sit down to write. (On a not-so-great day, I wind up doing laundry or dealing with a broken dishwasher or driving to drop off a forgotten lunch box). I have a laptop, so I work at the kitchen table a lot, or in a big comfy chair on our sun porch. And then I just write like crazy until it’s time for afternoon carpool.

Would you want The Lost Husband to be made into a movie? If so, do you have a cast in mind?

I’d love to see it as a movie!! I’d especially love to see the scene where Libby gives O’Connor a haircut and shaves off his beard. It would be fun to see that transformation on the screen. As for who to cast, it’s a fun game to play! It’s always kind of hard for me, for some reason. But I’ve heard some great suggestions from readers: Ryan Gosling for O’Connor. Amy Adams for Libby. Kathy Bates for Aunt Jean.

Katherine- what are you working on next? Can you give us any hints?

I just got a three-book deal with St. Martin’s Press, and I’m working to finish the first of those three this summer. It’s about a woman who goes on a wilderness survival course with her little brother’s irritating best friend. I am 2/3 of the way through the first draft, and I’m having a great time with it.

*Special thanks to Katherine Center for agreeing to be interviewed!

Katherine Center is enjoying life (as you can tell in this pic (taken at the People magazine party!)- she’s got a big smile on her face!) Not only is The Lost Husband a Deep South Magazine Summer Reading List selection– she’s recently signed a three book deal with St.Martin’s Press. When not writing, Katherine can be found on her website, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook.

*Giveaway: Comment for a chance to win The Lost Husband! Be sure and include your email (you may use the AT and DOT). Giveaway is open to US only (sorry!) Giveaway is open from August 20- Aug 27th at 11:59pmEST. Winner announced Aug 28th.

Interview with Courtney Miller Santo, author of The Roots of the Olive Tree

Courtney Miller Santo’s debut novel, The Roots of the Olive Tree, came to me through TLC Blog tours. I had not heard of the book before; but the description sounded like something I normally read. As I read, I found myself immersed in the life of these women- the secrets, the struggles, the questions, and much more.

After reading it, I knew I wanted to talk to Courtney more- and lucky for me (and my readers!) she agreed to an interview! Haven’t read The Roots of the Olive Tree? You’re in luck! There’s going to be a giveaway!

Interview with Courtney Miller Santo

Courtney, I read on your website that your most prized possession is a picture of the 5 generations of women in your family. Did that influence the story of The Roots of Olive Tree?

The novel, in many ways, is an exploration of the family dynamics I grew up with. I had the fortune of having a long line of matriarchs in my family and I’d never found a book that explored the dynamics that arise when you get to talk with your great-grandmother about what your grandmother was like as a teenager. The matriarch of the book, Anna, is a fictional version of my own great-grandmother, who I lost this last October at age 104. My most prized possession now is a video of my nine-year-old daughter playing piano with her great-great grandmother.

How long did it take you to write The Roots of the Olive Tree?

Two pregnancies—that is to say the initial version took about nine months and then I spent nine months in revision.

Are any of the characters based on people you know? Or figments of your imagination?

When I wrote the book, I started with a clear picture of Anna (who is based on Winifred Rodgers, my own great-grandmother) and Erin, who is a version of me when I was in my twenties. The women in-between all contain characteristics of women in my life who I didn’t understand. In the case of Bets, I tried to work out questions I had of who my mother was as a woman (as opposed to my Mom) but in creating these characters, they very much became their own selves. At times, I find myself having imaginary conversations with Callie and Anna about Deb.

In the book, Anna, longs to be the oldest living person, but she’s also superstitious about the research Dr. Hashmi wants to do. I found that so interesting and such a telling story of the ages- because I think if I lived as long as Anna- I would not want to know the why; but being Callie’s age- I would be very interested. How did you decide on that particular angle?

Dr. Hashmi added an outside perspective to the Keller woman and helped raise the issues around aging and longevity that I was interested in. You are exactly right that Anna is much more interested in myth and accepts her longevity as an expectation, but Callie is much more troubled by it—in part because she has had a near death experience and because her body is damaged. In writing the book, I found that the natural questions and dilemmas about aging that arose as I wrote were all byproducts of the characters themselves. Once I started writing Callie’s section, I understood her view on aging and how different it was from her grandmother’s.

The distance between mothers and daughters can be measured in secrets is on the cover of The Roots of The Olive Tree. That statement is so true. How did you come up with that statement? Are other readers of The Roots of Olive Tree finding truth in that statement?

That tagline came pretty late in the production of the book and is a product of a conversation I had with my sister about our mother. We were up late talking about all that we don’t know about our mothers and what we as mothers conceal from their own children. It occurred to me the next day that distance can be measured in secrets and it felt especially applicable to Roots of the Olive Tree and the Keller women. I find that readers respond well to the idea that there is a natural distance between mothers and daughters—that grows out of having to be a parent—and the more time we spend with our mothers as adults, the fewer secrets they hold onto.

Do you have a favorite character in The Roots of the Olive Tree?

That is a Sophie’s Choice question! For me, I think that Bets is the heart of the book because hers is the only story that is complete by the end of the book—the other women’s journeys are ongoing and I expect them to show up again—especially based on the stories they keep telling me when I’m driving the car or in the shower.

Would you like The Roots of the Olive Tree to be made into a movie? If so, do you have a dream cast?

I discovered some of my favorite books because I saw the movie first—so of course I’d love for Hollywood to take an interest in Roots (especially considering how few parts there are for women over the age of forty). As far as a dream cast goes, I’d love to see the powerhouse combination of Vanessa Redgrave as Anna and Helen Mirren as Bets. For Callie, I always pictured Cybill Shepherd (who grew up in Memphis where I now live) because she can play sexy at sixty. Deb is the hardest for me to dream cast because she has to have that hard edge and yet also embrace redemption. Melissa Leo would be amazing. And for Erin, I’d love to see another Memphis actress, Ginnifer Goodwin play her.

Courtney- do you have a writing space? Or a writing routine?

I am a creature of routine! I try to write in the mornings for at least two hours—and preferably three. However my work space is always changing—especially since I just moved. Most of this book was written on my living room couch and the next one has been written in my office (which is literally a cement box with no windows. I can hear when it rains, but I can’t see it).

Are you working on another book? If so, can you give some hints at to what it will be about?

I am in the process of final revision on the next book. It deals with the troubles of three cousins (who just happen to be related to Bets). They come to Memphis to try and save a family house, which was built out of spite instead of necessity. There is this amazing tradition of building houses to make someone else angry or just to prove you could. One of them, in Virginia, was built in an alleyway because the owner didn’t like all the buggy traffic going through, another owner who had a view of the beach, had an addition built specifically to block his neighbor’s view. In the case of these cousins, the house was built on an odd plot of land that overlooks the Mississippi.

Courtney Miller Santo is hard at work on revision of her 2nd novel. To connect with Courtney, visit her website, Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter pages. If you enjoyed, The Roots of the Olive Tree, let Courtney know (and consider posting a review to Goodreads, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble).

*Giveaway: One lucky winner will score a copy of The Roots of the Olive Tree. To enter, comment on this post and include your email (you may use the AT and DOT). Giveaway is open to US only (sorry!) Giveaway is open from August 12- August 19 at 11:59pm EST. Winner will be announced August 20th.

To read Traveling With T’s review of The Roots of the Olive Tree, visit here.

The Lake House by Marci Nault

Marci Nault’s The Lake House is a tale of love, forgiveness, being true to yourself, and finding peace.

Victoria- one of the original Nagog residents. She and her girlfriends make the pact to never leave Nagog and live life there forever- with husbands, children, grandchildren. Then the war comes, the ladies sweethearts leave, and Victoria gets restless. She longs to experience life beyond the area of Nagog. Victoria breaks the pact and leaves- creating a rift with her friends. A rift, that for some, may never be able to be repaired.

Heather- from the outside she has everything. A career that she’s proud of, a man that cares for her, and a diamond engagement ring- Heather appears to be set for life. Except, she’s not. She doesn’t feel content or safe- and she longs to have a place, a life that is hers- a place where she won’t feel if she makes a mistake, life is over. Heather finds a place in Nagog and feels the stirrings of safety- so she buys the place.

Nagog, though, does not welcome either Heather or Victoria with open arms. Resentment burns through some of the community toward Victoria for past differences, misunderstandings and hurt feelings. For Heather, the residents do not want young people moving in the area- so they do everything to make the place least welcoming as possible.

Heather and Victoria strike up a friendship- and although neither are aware- both fill a need in each other’s life. As their friendship grows, secrets and advice are shared- and the bond deepens.

Can Victoria make amends to the community and people she left behind? Can Heather find the safety and happiness she has been craving? Read The Lake House to find out!

Traveling With T’s Thoughts:

Enjoyable read. Well thought out characters. Great setting. Wonderful storyline. A perfect read for pool-side or lake/beach-side. Victoria and Heather- characters that have had sadness- but deserve some happiness. You, as the reader, root for them to find their happy ending. Recommended.

The Recipe Box by Sandra Lee

Sometimes happiness finds you, right in the middle of grief and trying to find yourself.

Grace, recently divorced, trying to make a new life, raise a teenager daughter, Emma, and support her best friend, Leeza, who is battling cancer. Grace- between her job, raising Emma, and flying back and forth from LA to Wisconsin to visit with Leeza, feels overwhelmed- but knows she has to make everything work.

Then, she gets a phone call that no one wants to get- Leeza has passed away. Emma, Grace and Ken (Leeza and Grace’s other best friend) make the trip back to Wisconsin to help Leeza’s husband and to plan a funeral. While back in Wisconsin, Grace sees an old flame, Von, and it makes her feel uneasy about a potential secret she’s been keeping for many years. Grace, firsthand, knows that secrets are not good- a secret played a major role in the relationship with her own mother.

While Grace and Ken are back in Wisconsin- life, even without Leeza, is good. Both Grace and Ken have met people- people that could be in their lives forever. Emma begins to blossom, to change into a person she’s meant to be- instead of rebelling to get her mother’s attention.

Can Grace give up life in LA? Can she find a way to make peace with her own mother about the secret she kept? Can Grace ever make peace with herself about her potential secret she’s keeping from her daughter? Will Grace find out that happiness is right back in her hometown? To find out, read The Recipe Box!

Traveling With T’s Thoughts:

The Recipe Box is cute. Fun. Quick read. Secrets, family, finding yourself, and learning to accept things are themes in this book. Fun characters!

*This book was provided to me by Netgalley. The above thoughts and opinions are mine alone.

Interview with Claire Cook, author of Time Flies

Claire Cook has just had her 10th book published! She stopped by to talk about Time Flies (which is on Deep South Magazine’s Summer Reading List 2013) and many, many other things!

Claire will be back on Friday- to reveal her #literaryconfessions, #literarycrush and some of her favorite authors!

My review of Time Flies will be posted on Thursday- so stay tuned for that as well!

Interview with Claire Cook

Claire, thank you so much for agreeing to be interviewed!

Thanks so much for interviewing me, Tamara!

Time Flies is your 10^th novel. How has the writing process changed from your first novel to the 10^th? Has the writing process gotten any easier?

Wouldn’t you think by the tenth novel it would get easier? Sadly, it’s not, except for the fact that since I survived the first nine, I knew I was probably going to live through the tenth one, too! Writing a novel is a leap of faith, and it’s still a mystery to me how it all comes together. I think my inner reader saves me every time. I don’t think you can be a writer unless you’re an avid, joyful reader, and I believe that as you read and read, a template forms somewhere in your brain that somehow helps you write your own books.

Must Love Dogs was made into a movie. After writing the book, and then having the movie made- would you like any more of your books to be made into a movie?

Of course! I’d like all of them to be made into movies – it was a totally awesome experience! And every time the Must Love Dogs movie plays on TV, which is a lot, new readers discover my novels, which is the biggest gift of all. I’ve had other books optioned for film since, but it’s rare that they make it through all the Hollywood hoops and onto the big screen. My fingers are crossed that lightning will strike twice though!

Time Flies has earned spots on several summer reading lists. One of the lists is Deep South Magazine’s Summer Reading List. How did it feel seeing Time Flies on a list with Looking for Me by Beth Hoffman, The Time Between by Karen White and Ladies’ Night by Mary Kay Andrews?

It was such thrill to make Deep South Magazine’s Summer Reading list! As a recently transplanted Northerner, I’ve been shouting it out at all my book events and saying, “Wow, they let me in – I finally feel like a Southerner!” Beth and Karen and Mary Kay are all writer pals, so I’m as happy for them as I am for me, and truly honored to be included on the list with so many talented authors.

How long did Time Flies take to write?

When I’m writing a first draft, I write two pages a day, seven days a week. So, essentially, I’m living in the book, thinking about it all day long. I’ve noticed my best ideas come in the shower, on the elliptical machine at the gym, at red lights when I’m driving, and when I wake up in the middle of the night. I jot things down all day long – on notecards, in notebooks, on the backs of receipts.

I don’t outline, because it would make it feel like a term paper. I try not to think too much or try too hard, because when I do, my writing goes flat. I have a sense of who my main character is, and because my books are written in the first person, my entry point tends to be capturing my protagonist’s voice. Then, because I’m essentially writing slice-of-life novels, I think about what makes the book begin today instead of another day. Once I find that little explosion, then I have my jumping off point. The characters react to that and there’s a ripple effect. I just keep following those ripples and in about six months or so, I have a first draft. And then the real work begins since the truth is it’s the rewriting – again and again – that makes your novel truly come alive. I delivered my first draft of Time Flies just before Wallflower in Bloom came out last June, so the whole process takes me about a year – and lots of hard work!

Do you have a favorite character in Time Flies?

I have to be able to love all my characters, even the unlovable ones, or I wouldn’t be able to write them convincingly. And I never pick favorites – I wouldn’t want to hurt the other characters’ feelings!

Claire, you are very active on social media and often ask your fans questions as you are writing your books. How much does talking to fans help in your writing?

I think social media is a great way to help new readers find my books, and I’m lucky that I really enjoy it. The challenge is not getting so sucked in that it encroaches on my writing time.

I love asking my readers questions to help me with my books, and I know they enjoy being a part of the process. While writing Time Flies, I asked everybody to share their favorite songs from high school, as well as old clothing and makeup memories. It was fun for all of us and also gave me some great authentic details for the novel.

I also love hearing what resonates for readers in my books, and I think it’s helped me become a better writer. So if you’re reading this right now, I hope you’ll connect with me on Facebook and Twitter and Pinterest and Goodreads and at ClaireCook.com, where you can sign up for my e-newsletter, Must Love Readers.

The cover of Time Flies is beautiful. It makes me think of carefree days and leaving worries behind. How do you decide on a cover?

Thank you! I think I’ve been really lucky in getting great covers, though I can’t take any credit for it. They’ve all been designed by talented cover designers hired by my publishers. If I don’t think early cover concepts would resonate for my readers, I speak up, but other than that I stay out of it and leave it to the professionals!

Claire- what are some words you would use to describe Time Flies?

I hope it’s fun and funny and poignant and real and ultimately uplifting.

Are you working on a new novel? Taking a well-deserved break before you write again?

Ha! A break – what’s that?!? I delivered a draft of my next novel to my literary agent the week before Time Flies came out, and I’ll jump into my first set of revisions moments after I finish this interview. Stay tuned…it’ll be out sometime next year!

*Special thanks to Claire Cook for agreeing to be interviewed!

Claire Cook has just published her 10th novel, Time Flies. She’s having too much writing to take a break! When Claire is not hard at work on her next book (and even when she is!) she can be found on social media sites interacting with fans. To find out more about Claire, visit her website, Facebook and Twitter.

Interview with Brenda Janowitz- author of Recipe For A Happy Life

Brenda Janowitz, author of Recipe for a Happy Life, stopped by to answer questions about the writing process, who would be perfect for a movie version of Recipe for a Happy Life, and much more. Read on for Brenda’s fun and interesting interview!

Interview with Brenda Janowitz

Brenda, thank you so much for agreeing to an interview. Recipe for a Happy Life sounds like a fun read!

-Thanks so much! I’m so delighted to be here!!

What was the inspiration for Recipe for a Happy Life?

-One summer, when I was single, my Grandma Dorothy informed me that she would be renting a house in the Hamptons. No more of these silly share houses I was doing with my friends each summer. They were getting me nowhere (read: still single and over thirty). Instead, I was to stay with her and she would help me meet someone. The only problem with this scenario was that I was sure she’d meet a man before I did. She had sparkling crystal blue eyes and a killer figure. My own hazel eyes and good birthing hips were no match for her easy glamour and style.

When she found out that a Hamptons summer rental costs more than the gross national product of some countries, the idea sort of fell apart. But it gave me an idea—what if a young woman spent the summer out in the glamorous Hamptons with her even more glamorous grandmother?

Are any of the characters based on people you know in real life or created from your imagination?

-See above: my grandma Dorothy! But becoming a mother also inspired me, as did my own mom, who is my best friend.

Both of my own grandmothers really inspired me to come up with the character of Vivienne, the glamorous widow six times over. Neither was a widow six times over, but both of my grandmothers were very glamorous ladies. When I think of my childhood memories, I’m not likely to picture them in aprons baking cookies. I picture them in evening gowns.

This (Recipe for a Happy Life) is your 3rd book. Does the writing process get easier with each book?

-I don’t think that it does. Every time I finish a book, I feel like everything I know about the world—everything I ever knew—is wrapped up in those pages. It feels like I don’t have anything more to say. I’m amazed each time I come up with something new.

If Recipe for a Happy Life was made into a movie- do you have an idea of a dream cast?

-Oooh, this one’s tough, because one of the main characters in the book is a 76 year old grandmother. There’s not too many 76 year old grandmothers running around Hollywood.

I think Joan Collins would be perfect to play the part of Hannah’s grandmother, but my editor likes Shirley Maclaine. (Joan, Shirley, call me!)

For the granddaughter, there are so many talented actresses I love: Natalie Portman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Garner, Drew Barrymore. The list could go on….

Brenda, can you describe Recipe for a Happy Life in 15 words or less?

-Oh God, no. I definitely cannot. I can’t even do it in less than 30!! But here’s as short and sweet as I can get it:

When Hannah finds herself spending the summer with her glamorous grandmother, a widow six times over, at her sprawling beach-front Hamptons estate, she learns that there’s more than one recipe for happiness.

How long from beginning to end did Recipe for a Happy Life take to write?

-Years and years!! I began work on this novel back in 2006, before my first novel was even published. But I don’t think I was ready to write this story just yet.

I picked it back up after finishing my second novel, which was published in 2008, and then worked on RECIPE for years after that. In the time since I began this novel, I met my husband, got married, bought a house, bought a car, and had two children. Shortly after getting my book deal, I lost my Grandma Dorothy, who gave me the initial idea for the book.

So, yeah, I guess you could say it took a long time.

When describing your books, would you use the term “chick lit”?

–My first two novels would be classified as “chick lit,” which is to say they’re smart, funny novels with heart about a single girl living in the city. And that’s exactly what I was at the time. But just as I’ve grown up, my writing has grown up, too. But that doesn’t mean that I mind the “chick lit” label.

I’d consider this novel commercial women’s fiction, but you can call it anything you like. I think that any label that helps readers find authors and books that they love is a good thing!

Are there any book signing/book tours in place for Recipe for a Happy Life?

-My publicist is working on it as we speak! I’m hoping to have a few readings set up soon.

Brenda, what are you working on next? Do you have an idea or are you just gathering ideas?

-I’m about 2/3 of the way done with my fourth novel! But don’t ask me what it’s about. I never really know what a book is about until I’ve completed a first draft. Up until it’s finished, it’s just a bunch of ideas on paper. It’s the re-draft that really turns it into something.

* Special thanks to Brenda Janowitz for agreeing to this interview.

Brenda Janowitz, author of Recipe for a Happy Life, is working hard on her fourth novel. If you read and enjoy Recipe for a Happy Life- consider checking out her earlier works- Scot on the Rocks or Jack with a Twist. For more information on Brenda, check out her website, Twitter, and Facebook page.

** Giveaway! A lucky person will win a copy of Recipe for a Happy Life! To enter, comment with your recipe for a happy life! Please include your email address (you may use the AT and DOT). Contest is open to US only (sorry!) Giveaway runs from Monday, July 8th- till Sunday, July 14th at 11:59pmEST. Winner will be announced July 15th!

The Life List by Lori Nelson Spielman

Sometimes life’s sweetest gifts can be found in the most unexpected places……………

Brett, a 34 year old woman, has the life. Living with her long term boyfriend, working for her mother’s cosmetic company- Brett feels that life is pretty good. Then her mother, Elizabeth, dies and Brett’s world begins to crumble. Fully expecting Elizabeth to leave the cosmetic company to her, when Brett and her brothers meet with the attorney- and Brett gets a shock. Her mother ties her receiving the inheritance to Brett completing her life list goals that she made at age 14.

Brett is hurt, confused, grieving- and wondering how she will even begin to complete some of these goals- for example, she wanted to have a better relationship with her father; but her father died a few years earlier. Slowly, Brett begin to complete some of the life list goals- and with each goal she completes, the lawyer her mother hired gives her a letter. The letter is part of the lesson- another way to show Brett how far her life has been from the fearless spirit she had as a child.

Elizabeth loved her daughter, Brett, with a fierce determination that survives even death. While it is Brett’s life list, Elizabeth is determined that Brett will not take the easy way out- she will live the life, with the all the decadent goodness and even some sorrow, that Brett deserves. With each life list goal Brett checks off, she gets closer to the life she’d dreamed of and learns a bit more about herself- her real self; not the person she’d tried to be for others. In the end, at the very core, by completing her life list- will Brett have won the prize of getting access to her inheritance- or was the real prize in stepping out of her comfort zone to the life she really wants?

Traveling With T’s Thoughts:

I loved this book. I cried for Brett, for the sorrow she felt about her mother, for the abundant love her mother felt for her. I felt a connection with Brett, as well, being of similar age and having similar concerns about life. This is not to say that the book is a total cry-fest, because it is not. It’s got laughter and humor to balance the sadness. It’s got lessons for people about life and love. It’s not a “thinker” book, nor is it heavy handed with it’s lessons. It’s got some light and fluff to balance with the sorrow- and it leaves the reader with a warm feeling. It’s like a mother loving you- wanting you to be the absolute best version of yourself that is possible. Have Kleenex ready and a glass of wine to enjoy while reading.

* This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. The above thoughts and opinions are mine alone.

The Wishing Tree by Marybeth Whalen

Ivy Marshall’s life is falling to pieces the same day she learns her younger sister’s life is coming together with a marriage proposal from her boyfriend. Ivy, while happy for her sister, cannot help wonder “what if” about her own life. What if she’d married the man her family wanted her to marry instead of Elliot? “What if” is a dangerous question, at times……

Ivy leaves Elliot to head back to Sunset Beach. Partly to help with her sister’s wedding, partly to get away from Elliot, and partly to think about life. Back in Sunset Beach, she does not want her family to know about Elliot- since they did not want her to marry him- they wanted her to marry Michael. Ivy figures she’ll see Michael at the wedding since his cousin is marrying her sister- but is surprised (and secretly pleased) to see that Michael is around for the summer.

Elliot is not taking Ivy leaving lightly- he takes to Twitter, one of her favorite social media sites, and begins tweeting to get Ivy’s attention. As the weeks go by, Ivy begins to see that Elliot is trying- he’s paying more attention- but what broke between them; she is unsure if can ever be fixed.

Ivy also has some hard truths of her own to deal with- her role in what lead to her family being hurt about her broken engagement, Michael, and the others she hurt in her past.

The Wishing Tree deals with hard issues with sensitivity and lightness: cheating, breaking hearts, growing up, disappointing family and finding yourself. Well-written, enjoyable, a story-line that is interesting and very readable.

Recommended.

Traveling With T’s Thoughts:

Marybeth Whalen has done it again. Written a book that is light, funny; yet poignant and thoughtful. Themes of love, forgiveness, and moving on are discussed and weaved in and out of the story of Ivy and her life. Thought-provoking. Read- you will not be sorry.

*The author provided me with a review copy in exchange for a fair and honest review. All above opinions are mine alone.