Once there was a budding author named Mandi. She started a blog, and I started reading it. Mandi is a master storyteller, and I read her new posts greedily.
Then Mandi wrote a novel, and I sweetly demanded an advanced copy before knowing what it was about. You may not want to do that though, so I will tell you that Dear Stephanie is a women’s fiction/contemporary romance novel about a self-destructive, beautiful, affluent, deeply flawed, and heartbreakingly human young woman.
It is unlike any other novel you’ve read, and it will leave you mouth agape. It was one of those books that settled in after I finished reading, seeping into my pores and affecting me long after I turned the last page.
Mandi was kind enough to Face Time with me for an interview. She could have just emailed me the answers, but I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to chat with her screen to screen!
Mandi’s answers are paraphrased, and my comments are in italics.
I thought Dear Stephanie was going to be a light romance novel, but it’s definitely deeper and darker, and certainly more powerful. How did you formulate your idea for the book?
It’s funny, I was in the shower and I heard a song from Pink (Save my Life), and I could visualize the person in the song. It stuck with me, and I thought I was going to write a short story about her. As soon as I got dressed, I went to my computer and wrote the first chapter. Then I went back and wrote the prologue, and couldn’t stop writing.
Tell me one of your favorite sentences in the book.
My favorite sentence I can’t say because it’s a spoiler. (She told me though, since I’ve read it. I had to know.)
My second favorite is “Three squeezes…I –squeeze– love –squeeze– you –squeeze.” That’s a good one too! You have no context though, so just trust me.
Cast the movie – when your book hits the big screen, who will be starring in it?
I have no idea who would play Paige; maybe a cross between Kate Upton and Margot Robbie? The rest of the cast would be:
Don’t be jealous, ladies. Alright, be jealous.
Blake: Adrian Grenier
Dr. Love: George Clooney
Janie: Emma Stone
Mr. Preston: Blair Underwood
Excellent casting, in my opinion. And perhaps the best looking movie cast ever.
You are a completely different person than Paige – did that make it easier to create her, or harder? What is one thing you have in common?
Creating Paige was a lot of fun, because she is the opposite of me. She is crass, uncouth, and uncensored. She says what she thinks, and that is my favorite thing about her. I would get into her character and write for hours.
One thing we have in common is our snarky sense of humor.
I nodded my head when Mandi said that. I rarely saw any of the Mandi I know in the book (because duh, it’s fiction), but sometimes Paige would say something funny and I’d think, “That sounds like something Mandi would say!” Which she did, because she wrote it…but you know what I mean. Or maybe not.
Paige battles many demons, including mental illness. Do you have a background in psychology or counseling, or did you do any research before writing? Did addressing such a sensitive topic concern you?
I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and had I continued my education, I would have been a therapist for people with drug addiction. Addiction and bipolar disorder was what fascinated me the most. I have a family member who suffers from depression, so I’ve seen it first hand. I had a friend in high school who committed suicide, but when I first started writing Paige I had no idea she was going to want to kill herself.
My biggest concern was that I wouldn’t get it right. Because the novel is in first person, I wanted to make it real. I researched real people and read a bunch of blogs by people who have contemplated or attempted suicide, and took pieces of what everybody said.
A huge reason that I was excited to read your book is that I adore your writing. You tell a story like nobody’s business, but the stories on your blog are non-fiction. How does that compare to writing fiction?
Writing fiction is so much fun. I enjoyed getting into character much like an actor might do before he goes on stage. I would turn on music that I knew Paige would like prior to writing and clean my kitchen with her soundtrack in my head, and then I would sit down and become her. It was/is an all new way to write free. To speak in someone else’s voice is quite liberating, at least for me.
Paige puts on a good front, but she is full of insecurities. I imagine that putting your heart and soul into a book and then giving it to the world can stir up those insecurities too. Talk to me, Mandi – is your stomach in knots?
Oh, it has stirred up the insecurities alright. I’ve gone from feeling like I was on top of the world to thinking that I’ll pull it and hide in a corner because obviously I’m the worst writer on the planet, and this book is shite, and I should really get busy doing my real job: cleaning toilets and singing along to Taylor Swift with my daughter. Also, my family has no idea I wrote a book, so now that it’s out, I keep half expecting a phone call or a text that says, “Is this you?” Knots, yes, my stomach is in knots, has done somersaults, is twisted, is upside down, is everything. I might just puke right now.
I’ll hold your hair back, Mandi.
Paige isn’t a fan of women. Are you a girls’ girl, or would you rather hang with the guys?
Both. I have four brothers so I can hang with the guys, but I have clusters of girlfriends who I love to be with too.
Tell me one random fact about you that will make my readers say, “I must get to know this Mandi person – where can I get her book?”
I could have been the girl in the film 27 Dresses. I’ve been everybody’s bridesmaid; I’m everybody’s best friend. I still have all the dresses, but I have retired.
You are the third author I’ve interviewed, and I asked the other two at least one question in haiku form. I am now officially declaring that the final question in any author interview will be this haiku; your answer must also be in haiku form.
Write me a teaser
To convince a reader
To read your new book!
Mandi’s response:
Dear Stephanie is available on Amazon, and you can enter to win a free copy on Goodreads HERE through May 31st. (Note: Dear Stephanie is rated R for strong sexual content and language)
Okay! you sold me:). Adding it to my summer reading list. Love the picture of you and Vince!
Aww you called him Vince. I love Vince, but I love Adrian even more. He’s a huge humanitarian and a philanthropist and my boyfriend.
Thank you – we make a cute couple, don’t we?
Man, how many blog posts will it take to get my ars over to buy Mandi’s book?!!! Actually, I really am going to buy it, along with a few others on my list- just as soon as we pay off all the graduates and wedding couples we have celebrated the past month!! LOL
Cha cha CHING!!!
Great interview!! I have to say, I especially loved your italicized thoughts, Dana!! LOL
Dana is adorable, and I felt like her italicized quotes were like her inner dialogue. Perfect. Christine, this was one of the most fun interviews ever. My book is not going anywhere, though. There’s no rush. Just don’t let anyone spoil the ending for you. I always want to read the endings for myself.
Can’t wait to hear what you think. (Disclaimer: it’s rated R for strong sexual content and language, but that’s mostly in the first half.)
Did you know that all of my thoughts are italicized, Chris? They show up in my head that way. 😉
PS Congratulations, Mandi!!
You are so sweet. Thank you!
I’m reading The Husband’s Secret right now because you recommended it to me, Dana. Plus, having read some of Mandi’s blog posts, I MUST GET THIS BOOK RIGHT NOW. Thanks for the fun interview and I have to say that I’m totally and completely intrigued about Paige.
I think you’ll like the book, Kristi – it’s gritty and real and honest.
Kristy,
Thanks so much for adding my little book to your list. I hope it meets your expectations. It’s quite the sharp left turn from my typical blog posts, but I can promise a helluva ride while you read. Or at least, that’s what people have told me.
That sounds amazing! My to read list is growing by the minute, but I’ve got quite a bit of ALONE travel this summer and it sounds like a great one to bring on the plane with me!
It would be a good one, NJ – enjoy!
Oh, I love plane reading and ALONE travel. I hope Dear Stephanie is a good companion for you. Let me know when you’ve finished. I would love to hear what you think.
Grinning over Mandi’s comment ” … you’ll probably private message me in all caps.” I was already tempted to read the book – getting great reviews everywhere – but this sealed it for me. Love that the two of you Face Timed.
I loved it too. I want to Face Time with all my blog friends…it’s so fun to see a fave in person.
Kelly, I think you’ve finished at this point. We should probably have a private conversation now. It seems some of my readers like to talk about it when they finish. I’m here if you need me, and you can either cyber punch me, or I’ll offer you a cyber tissue and a shoulder.
Great interview, Dana! The Haiku question feature is brilliant! I really liked that you and Mandi discussed a lot about the process of writing the book: the mind space Mandi was in as she wrote, the connection with the main character and the initial inspiration. For me, these things bring added appreciation as a read a book. Oh, and I will be at the theater for opening day to see the movie with that stellar cast!!
I love learning about the author’s mind space, too. I’ve found that the more I write, the more it fascinates me. I know how tough it is to write anything, much less fiction…I’m so impressed by authors who can create a whole story that enthralls me.
Let’s get our popcorn ready for this one. With this cast, it almost has to become a movie, right?
I hope you enjoy reading the book. Thanks for taking the time to read this interview and to comment.
ooh, I’ll be reading it!
So interesting about the shower. I’m not a fiction writer I’m fascinated to hear how people get their inspiration. And of course I know great books take research and are also pulled from personal history. I dig that. I am learning more and more about heavy mental illness because I also have a family member suffering.
I’m sorry to hear that, Tamara. I think Mandi handled the subject very honestly and respectfully, which can be hard to do.
I did so much research for this book, Tamara, but also used some of my experiences with real life people who have suffered from mental illness. It’s such an extraordinary topic that creating Paige with all of her “issues” was both a challenge and an interesting journey.
I hope you enjoy the read. So far, I’m getting excellent feedback from readers.
I can’t stand the anticipation any longer!!! ***sits by the mail box waiting for Dear Stephanie special delivery *** 🙂
Great interview, Dana! It must have been fun to FaceTime with the one and only! I love your questions and Mandi’s answers. I would like tickets to the premiere of the movie, please. xo
I’ll have a pair waiting at Will Call for you!
I’m so late to respond that I know you’ve gotten your copy. I hope you’re enjoying the wild ride that is Paige Preston.
Oh, intriguing! And I love how you dove into the writing process with Mandi. Now to have time to read it….
You kinda have your hands full right now, Leslie! I hope you can find a little time to relax and read this summer.
I love hearing others’ processes, too. It’s so interesting to see how a story becomes a story and the paths the author had to take to get there. I hope you find some time soon. Would love to know what you think.
I love learning about a writer’s process and inspiration! And, a haiku is an awesome way to end an interview 🙂
I love learning about it too! So interesting. And yes, a haiku is a perfect ending.
Dana is a fabulous interviewer. She had some of the best questions I’ve been asked.
Fab interview, you , and you got FACETIME, ya lucky thing 🙂
Love this book, and your promotion of it, Dana 🙂
I’m the lucky one, Lizzi. I could have talked to Dana all day long. In fact, I think I’m going to have to get her number and randomly facetime with her. She’s adorbs.
You’re BOTH the lucky ones. I’ve facetimed with Dana before and she’s SO LOVELY. I am HUGELY looking forward to meeting her in September and we’re going to talk about shoes and writing and hugging and being ourselves and hopes and dreams and life and all the things which are and aren’t and never could have been anyway. And it’s going to be wonderful.
And later in that month, Mizz Mandi, I get to give you a hug and not let go 🙂
September is going to be WONDERFUL.
It is going to be wonderful – I can’t wait! And you and I will meet one day, Mandi. I’ve never been to Texas…
Sounds good!
Thank you.
It is good, Christie…and I’m so excited for Mandi!
going to add this to my to read list! I just finished Saving Grace, which was a disappointment. Now I’m reading Crazy Love You-Lisa Unger never lets you down. You should liknk up with my book review hop. Going to check out this authors other books.
I would love for you to review my book, Karen. If you’ll give me the link, I’ll fill out the application. I know every review site has its requirements.
I will check out your hop, Karen – I know you are a huge reader. Good to know about Saving Grace…that one is on my list. Maybe I’ll reconsider.
What a fantastic interview Dana! I also am looking forward to reading Mandi’s blog, but the book also sounds fascinating. I love that the kernel of the idea came from a song, and a Pink song no less (which I love!). I am having a Pink resurgence actually, I love how fierce and honest and strong she is both in her music and her life.
Thanks so much for sharing this! I look forward to reading more interviews. The haiku finale is awesome!
Last but not at all least, CONGRATS Mandi!! As an aspiring novelist and lifetime writer I can imagine how exciting this is 🙂
It’s funny about Pink. I’ve always liked her music but was never a “fan” until I added her to my Pandora station, and since then, I can’t get enough of her. Hearing that song (which is actually written about her best friend who overdosed on drugs) created a vision in my head, and the story had to come out.
Thanks so much for putting my book on your list. I hope you’ll find me and tell me what you think when you’re finished.
Every piece of advice I’ve read about writing a novel has shared a common theme. Start writing it. I’m sure what is in your head needs to be on paper, and then you can figure the rest out.
So glad you enjoyed the interview, Dana. I rarely do author interviews, but when I have a talented friend who writes a book, I want to share. As a writer with no aspirations of writing a novel, I find it so interesting to get in an author’s head and discover how their story unfolded.
If you recommend it, Dana, then I know I will like it! Another one to add to my list — and I’m definitely very intrigued.
Awesome! Thanks. I would love to hear what you think. I have a few book clubs reading it now and have really enjoyed the discussion that follows when people finish.
I’d love to hear what you think too, Bev!
Oh heck yes! I have yet to be disappointed with a recommendation from you and this sounds like a winner for me. I’m reading “Inside The O’Brien’s” right now (because of you) and I’m loving it…although it’s a tough read since I know someone with Huntington’s. This sounds like it will be a great next read for my trip to San Francisco!
Dana gives the best book recommendations, and I’m not just saying that because she’s promoting mine right now. She and I usually see eye to eye on what we like.
I’m going to just assume, she keeps her good rec. reputation when you read this. Thanks so much!
It’s a good one, Allie…different than most of my usual recommendations (racier, grittier), but that’s what I love about reading. Why read the same type of book over and over again? Let me know what you think!
I am hooked now and most definitely want to read. Adding to my list and entering the giveaway, too!! 😉
Yay! Thanks. I hope it lives up to your expectations, but if anything, you can just imagine George Clooney and Adrian Grenier when you read, and that alone will make it good.
Hope you win it, Janine! Now you just have to find time to read…
I am so going to have to buy a copy of this book soon. Although two others are on my list, they may end up getting sidelined for this. Sounds like the perfect road trip novel!
Kim,
Most people have read it in one to two sittings, but beware, it’s not your typical romance story, (although the sex is steamy if I do say so myself). There are lots of twists and turns and unexpected moments where you’ll probably private message me in all caps. It’s okay. I’m getting used to it.
I think you’ll like it, Kim. And you will definitely have an opinion…feel free to message me too!