My mom's new book

Today, we have an interview with an author who is very special to me - my mom! My chic (see above) and extremely smart mother has a beautifully written new novel that has just become available on Amazon. I did a little interview with her to tell you guys a bit about her new book, Objects of Affection.

What is Objects of Affection about?

The book is about transformation, meaning and the importance of a good purse. Really. But mostly it's about transformation and the possibility of change and how deep and devoted friendship might be the vehicle of that transformation. It's about daring to search for deeper meaning in life when that doesn't seem possible. "The will to become that self which one truly is, is indeed the opposite of despair," said the philosopher, Soren Kierkegaard. Objects of Affection is about two people who dare.

What inspired the characters?

The characters of Arthur and Pauline sort of appeared - I suppose I was charmed by the idea of the wise older friend who acts as a "no strings attached" mentor or magus figure, to a younger woman.

The book is set in Vancouver - why did you choose that city?

I lived for many years in Vancouver and the specific neighbourhood where the story takes place has enormous urban charm and vitality and a certain essential "Vancouver-ness" of trees and 1940s domestic architecture. Both characters are very drawn to houses and the meaning of home and so it just became the ideal setting.

You spend a lot of time in Los Angeles as well. What are your favorite things to do and see in LA?

Something that is truly fabulous to do in Los Angeles is a heritage walking tour, right downtown. You get such a sense of the place as you traipse through the gorgous older buildings. Great fun and so interesting. Venice and Santa Monica are great too - they are almost like familiar characters from so many books and movies!

Are you working on another novel yet?

Yes, I am working on another novel. "Gathering Fruit" is set in the Okanagan, Canada's vineyard and orchard country.

Thanks mom! If you are looking for something new to read (and who isn't?) then you should definitely check out Objects of Affection, available here. 

Let me know if you read it - I'd love to hear your thoughts!