I am drawn to people who are compulsive, says ‘queen of chick-lit’ Jane Green

Journalist turned international bestselling author Jane Green might have started as the ‘queen of chick-lit’ but over the past few years, her characters have become more real, dealing with issues real women come across as they go about their lives. Some of her best known works include novels such as Jemima M, Second Chance and The Beach House. In her latest books —Summer Secrets and Falling: A Love Story — Green draws out issues that are often swept under the carpet. Excerpts from an interview with the author.

What was the inspiration behind Summer Secrets? 

I know many people who have a relationship with alcohol, whether it’s drinking, sobriety, in recovery — I am usually drawn to people who drink, or who are compulsive in some way, who live life a little faster, deeper, more extreme.

Body shaming and drinking are discussed throughout the book. Do you think these issues are often swept under the carpet?

I tend to think everything should be drawn out from under the carpet. We learn and grow from being allowed to be imperfect, from connection to others, which can only happen when we show our vulnerabilities!

Which character has been the most difficult one for you to write? 

Falling was hard to write but mostly because I was under tremendous time constraints and planning to leave a bad publishing relationship without knowing where I would land. I have to confess I identify with all my female characters a little, and particularly with Gabby in Tempting Fate, Cath in Bookends, Holly in Second Chance and the younger sister in Promises to Keep.

Lastly, if you were not an author, what do you think you would have been? 

A domestic goddess — in training. My passion is the home, whether it’s decorating, cooking, or gardening; anything but cleaning.