Established in 2018, TBR [to be read] is a semi-regular, invitation-only interview series with authors of newly released/forthcoming, interesting books.
When the unnamed protagonist meets Dutch, she believes that
he is her Johnny Cash, that she is his June Carter, and that theirs is a great
love story. As the novel progresses, it tells a different story, one swirling
with the chaos of addiction. It raises questions about our devotion to people
who are terrible for us and at what personal cost.
Which character did you most enjoy creating? Why? And
which character gave you the most trouble, and why?
I really enjoyed writing Dutch’s mom, June. She’s a
powerhouse. At the same time, beneath all that strength and polish, she’s as
vulnerable as the protagonist. I saw and heard her so clearly. I’d like to grab
drinks with her. I’d like to be friends.
I struggled with Tim, one of the protagonist’s romantic
partners. Some find him endearing, the obvious “good guy” opposite of Dutch. But
even as Tim pledged himself to the protagonist, I’m not sure he ever fully saw
her. I’m not sure he was capable.
Tell us a bit about the highs and lows of your book’s
road to publication.
This road has been a long one. I’m such an impatient person,
and before A Woman in Pink, I had only ever written short stories and
essays. To give this book the best possible shot, I had to slow down and hone
my discipline. Books take time. Thoughtful editing and querying take time.
I also had to toughen up. This process comes with so much
rejection. It’s like drinking from a firehose.
One
of the best moments was my first conversation with Jaynie Royal,
Editor-in-Chief at Regal House
Publishing. She had read my manuscript, and she wanted to talk.
For context, I had struggled with a
recurring comment from early readers: “You have to name your protagonist.” I
didn’t want to withhold something readers felt they needed, but I also knew
that the omission of the name was critical to the story. Jaynie Royal was the
first person who not only understood but appreciated my decision. I felt like
my book was finally being seen, and that I was, too, as an author. I signed
with Regal House Publishing shortly after that conversation.
What’s your favorite piece of writing advice?
Those lovely people in your life who tell you how great you
are? Don’t share your early drafts with them. Share your work with critical
readers who will point out the weaknesses and tell you the truth.
My favorite writing advice is “write until something
surprises you.” What surprised you in the writing of this book?
The ambiguity of the book’s conclusion surprised me. I
didn’t know the protagonist’s precise fate, and I decided that I was okay with
not knowing. I didn’t need or want a tidy ending. I wanted to leave some room
for interpretation and hope.
What’s something about your book that you want readers to
know?
I want readers to know that A Woman in Pink is not a
romance. It’s not cynical,
either. It’s a messy story, one that veers away from “happily ever after”
toward lived experience, one I hope will resonate with anyone who’s ever loved an
addict.
Inquiring foodies and hungry book clubs want to know: Any
food/s associated with your book?
I cook once or twice a week only because my kid did
an intervention. I’m a disaster in the kitchen. But if you invite me to dinner,
I’ll bring wine. And if we go to the movies together, I’ll recommend adding
Sour Patch Kids to your popcorn. You won’t be sorry.
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READ MORE ABOUT THIS AUTHOR: https://www.meganaschikora.com/
ORDER THIS BOOK FOR YOUR TBR STACK:
https://regal-house-publishing.mybigcommerce.com/a-woman-in-pink/
