Diane Chamberlain is the author of many novels, including Breaking the Silence and Before the Storm. Diane's latest book, The Lies We Told, is out today. Trashionista spoke to Diane about this new release, and just what inspires her to write.
Please describe your book in 15 words or fewer.
Devastating secrets test the bond between physician sisters Maya and Rebecca during disaster relief work.
What inspired you to write The Lies We Told?
My inspiration usually comes from several places at once. First, I wanted to explore this scenario: a man believes his wife is dead and as he grieves with his wife's best friend, they become a little too close. I changed the "friend" to the wife's "sister" to up the ante and also to be able to look at the relationship between sisters. Second, living in North Carolina where hurricanes are a yearly event, I wanted to imagine what would happen in the case of a disastrous hurricane on the coast. (I've since bought an oceanfront condo and have vowed never again to write about hurricanes!). Third, I've always been interested in the organization Doctors Without Borders, so I created the fictional Doctors International Disaster Aid Organization for the story. It was fascinating to me to pull these three threads of the story together.
Where do you do most of your writing?
I usually write in a coffee shop in the mornings. I seem to need the noise and chaos and caffeine! Over time, I've met other writers there, so it's a little like having co-workers. In the afternoon and evening, I work at home, usually at my desk or on the screened porch. Wherever I am in the house, you can bet my two dogs are by my side.
What is your favourite book?
My favorite book is one of the first I ever read: Charlotte's Web by E.B. White. Reading Charlotte's Web taught me early what's important in fiction: compelling story, believable sympathetic characters, life-altering conflict, perfect pacing, and the importance of compassion for others.
Who is your favourite heroine, and why?
Well, Charlotte, of course! She is a kick butt heroine if ever there was one. She's smart and creative and loving without being cloying about it.
What part of The Lies We Told was most fun to write?
The research! I visited the airport where the hurricane evacuees are housed and the island where Maya is trapped with the young couple she's not sure she can trust, and suddenly the story came to life for me. When you can picture your characters in a setting, it makes them so real.
Do you have any tips for readers who are looking to become published authors?
Learn everything you can about the craft of writing. Study your favorite books to see how the author structures a good story. Take a class in novel writing. Join a critique group to get feedback on your writing. . . and if your writing is not up to par, take a basic writing class so that you're able to share the story you love in a seamless and beautiful way. Write about something you're passionate about; the passion will shine through. Remember that writing a book is hard work; I write at least five drafts. And finally, if this is your dream, persevere!
What are you currently reading?
Quite honestly, the only thing I have time to read right now is a draft of my next book, The Midwife's Confession, which will be out in 2011. I look forward to having some recreational reading time for myself soon!
Thanks, Diane!
You can find out more about Diane and her books (and read an excerpt of The Lies We Told) by checking out Diane's website.
