You're Too Kind, I Am Humbled

 What is one interview question that you wish someone would ask you but rarely, if ever, has? What’s the answer?

- from Susan

 

 

NPR INTERVIEWER: “How does it feel to be a New York Times bestselling author and to have your book being made into a Netflix film with Lily James starring?”

 

SUSAN SHEA: “I adore Lily. We met over tea in New York last week, and she really understands my protagonist, who is young, spirited, and lovely just like Lily. And to have Janelle Monae playing her co-investigator is just perfect. She’s a major talent, and we bonded over diner in LA. I could not be happier. As to the book being number one for ten weeks, I can only say there are so many fabulous readers and booksellers to thank. “

 

NPR: Did you ever think this would happen? I mean, so many writers toil for pittances and can only dream of making a portion of your success.

 

SHEA: But wait. I toiled for pittances for years. I nibbled at the edges of making it big but it never happened. This is hardly an overnight success.”

 

NPR: What do you think made the difference with this book?

 

SHEA: I hired Michelle Obama’s public relations firm. Had to take out a second mortgage on my house and stop buying premium cat food, but it was worth it.

 

NPR: Um. So, what’s your next book about?

 

SHEA: Lily and Janelle are begging me to make this one the first in a series. Netflix offered me a bazillion dollars to do it, so I say, why not? The writer’s life is a crap shoot but when you throw the dice perfectly, you have to roll with it, right?