Happy Friday, everyone. 📚📝 Interview with Author Luana Giunta @Plotwist_ing 1. What inspired you to write this story (or book)? A: A few years ago, I had this dream that left me quite distressed. I was searching for a friend, pulling along a large suitcase. The neighbourhood was familiar, but my friend didn’t live there anymore. That’s when the main character from my book appeared and told me her story. And just like that, “How Do You Fix a Broken Pumpkin?” came to life. It was the first novel I wrote, and it was hard to get it ready for publication because it made me emotional every time I edited it. 2. Is it a standalone or a series? A: It’s a duology, the “Not A Fairytale” duology. I also want to write a spin-off, the story of one of the minor characters, but I don’t know when that will happen. 3. Which character was the most interesting or challenging to write, and why? A: Definitely the main character, Lexie. I have been told she’s too childish, too whiny, and that I needed to change her behaviour. Yeah, it’s not gonna happen. That’s how my character is. She went through a lot in her childhood, so forgive Lexie for letting this new family, who welcomed her into their home, spoil her. Knowingly or not, she’s taking from life what she’s been missing – love and attention. She’s sixteen. I think there is nothing wrong if she stays immature for a little while longer. 4. What do you hope readers take away from your work? A: Some relief for those who went through similar experiences, knowing that there are people in the world who care about them. And maybe the understanding, for those who think Lexie is too childish, that she has every right to be. I hope she and all the abuse survivors will cherish their inner child and spoil them until they grow old. However long that might be. 5. What does your writing process look like? Process? What is that? *Chuckles* A: I don’t have one. I just type on my phone whatever my characters tell me. I write at any time, any place, but only if the characters and I are in the mood. We don’t like to be forced. It might take longer, but writing is meant to be soothing and relaxing. For the annoying part, there is always editing. 6. What's a lesson you've learned about writing that surprised you? A: There is always room for improvement. The more you write, the better you get at crafting stories and the world your characters live in. It’s a great personal accomplishment. 7. What part of yourself keeps showing up in your writing, even when you try to leave it out? A: Little things, small quirks. Peculiar traits I share with my beloved characters, like my favourite – David, a psychologist – who makes jokes at the most inappropriate times. 8. What truth can you only say through fiction? A: Every story in my books, I would happily say out loud. Maybe not to my aunts – we don’t want them to clutch their pearls. 9. What would have been impossible for you to write five years ago that you can write now? A: I’m Italian. Five years ago, my English wasn’t as fluent. Editing is simpler because I don’t leave as many gaps to fill after looking up words. 10. What did your manuscript teach you that no writing advice ever could? A: My characters know best. People can advise you over and over, but you are the only one who has all the information to make the final call to where a story is going. Accept advice – as my friend and critique partner Craig would say – with grace, but stand your ground. 11. What are you working on now? A: I’m editing the sequel to “How Do You Fix a Broken Pumpkin?” and the sequel to my novella, “In The Same Boat”. Their titles are: “Prince Not So Charming, & on the verge of a mental breakdown” and “Shiver Their Timbers” I’m really excited to publish them. I love both stories and can’t wait for readers to find them. I appreciated this opportunity to reach out to old and new readers and share some insights about my work. I enjoyed replying to your questions. Thank you for the time you spend listening to the thoughts of Indie authors. Love, Luana Gi