New York Times best-selling author Natasha Lester is the brilliant mastermind behind literary treasures including, A Kiss from Mr Fitzgerald and The Paris Secret, and her latest masterpiece, The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard.
FOCUS spoke to Natasha about her latest novel, her writing processes and what advice she would give to aspiring writers.
This is what she had to say:
1. What inspired your latest book?
Three things: Mizza Bricard, Christian Dior’s so-called muse; the fashion battle between the French and the Americans that took place at the Palace of Versailles in November 1973; and the way successful women are diminished in the media and too often reduced to a clickbait headline.
2. Do you have a favourite quote or line from the book?
Definitely the dedication at the front, which is drawn from a line in the book. “To every woman who’s ever had a man make her into someone less than she truly is”.
3. What does a typical writing day look like for you?
Do you have any specific routines or methods when it comes to writing? I write in 30 minute blocks. I like to make sure I get up and move around regularly to ward off writer’s back pain, and I tend to be more productive if I write for 30 minutes and then have a 10-minute break to make a cup of tea. I have three school-age kids, so I’m generally writing during school hours.
4. What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
Just sit down and start writing! Write a little bit most days, and eventually, you’ll have a book. Then the real work starts – the rewriting!
This is your last chance to secure tickets for an exciting evening.
Don’t miss the exciting opportunity to experience the magic of Natasha’s storytelling and learn about her creative writing process.
Tickets cost: $9pp.
To secure your tickets, visit, https://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Upcoming-Events-Activities/An-Evening-with-Natasha-Lester.