Having loved Anna McPartlin's novel The
One I Love, we were delighted to interview Anna about the book and of course,
the inspiration behind it. Anna is also the author of 2009 novel Pack up the
Moon.
You can read a review of The One I Love here.
Please describe your book in 15 words or fewer.
Alexandra Kavanagh vanishes. 'The One I Love' is about the people she leaves behind.
What inspired you to write The One I Love?
The original kernel of the idea came during a Jack Lukeman concert. He was singing acapella to a crowd so captivated you could hear a pin drop. It was a melancholy song and sadness swept through the room. Two seconds later his band kicked off, he launched into a high energy fun song and the crowd's spirits lifted and soared. I was fascinated and the character of Elle was born there and then. But the overall story of a missing woman came from my preoccupation with the disappearance of Maddie McCann. I like the rest of the world watched and waited for her to be found and nearly two years on we are all still waiting and wondering where she is and what has happened to her. In 'The One I Love' I wanted to explore the ordinary everyday lives of people who are close to or touched by an extraordinary and dreadful loss.
Where do you do most of your writing?
In my kitchen I write and cook and hang with the dogs. I love my kitchen; it's my favourite place in the house where I'm always inspired and never hungry.
What is your favourite book?
Hmmm tough question it's a toss between 'Birdsong' and 'The Snapper'. I wonder what a psychiatrist would make out of that.
Which part of The One I Love was the most fun to write?
I enjoyed writing for the character of Rose. She's Jane and Elle's drunken mother. She's bitter, sharp and mostly mean but she's that way for many reasons and there is a rarely seen softness and kindness to her. She's a tough old bird who in turn made me laugh and cry when writing her.
Do you have any tips for readers who are looking to become published authors?
1. Just because it's on the page doesn't mean it should stay there. If it's not working delete and start again.
2. Don't allow criticism to paralyse you. If it makes sense learn from it and use it and if it doesn't let it go.
3. Never give up.
Who is your favourite heroine?
My mom. Twee and a crappy answer but true.
What are you currently reading?
I've got Steig Larsson fever.
Are you working on anything else at the moment, and if so can you tell us?
Yes I'm working on a pilot for a six part paranormal investigation series and when I'm finished I'll be starting my fifth book.
Thanks, Anna!
