Fresh FIction Box Not To Miss
Namrata Patel | A Woman’s Ambitions Clash with Familial Expectations
Author Guest / June 12, 2024

1–What is the title of your latest release? THE CURIOUS SECRETS OF YESTERDAY 2–What’s the “elevator pitch” for your new book? A woman’s ambitions clash with familial expectations. 3–How did you decide where your book was going to take place? I wanted to ensure the setting reflected the arc of the novel where Salem, MA was one thing originally (known historically for intolerance) to becoming a place that is home to people who live their authentic lives. 4–Would you hang out with your protagonist in real life? Absolutely. Though I would try to give her a lot of advice and push her to do more. 5–What are three words that describe your protagonist? Restless. Conflicted. Unfulfilled 6–What’s something you learned while writing this book? I did a lot of research on Ayurveda and how this ancient science has been co-opted to fit within a western framing. 7–Do you edit as you draft or wait until you are totally done? I need to write the novel first before revising. 8–What’s your favorite foodie indulgence? Panna Cotta with fruit 9–Describe your writing space/office! It’s a small desk with a laptop and a notebook. My creativity thrives in minimalist settings. 10–Who is an…

Namrata Patel | Conversations in Character with The Nanis of Napa
Author Guest / June 16, 2023

Book Title: SCENT OF A GARDEN Character Name: The Nanis of Napa (during one of their outings)   How would you describe your family or your childhood? Ming Na: We’re grandmothers, how much time do you have? Because I have stories. But it’ll cost you a glass, no a bottle of wine. Mimi: I have a lovely family. My childhood, well, I got married young and came to America as a bride. It was difficult, but worth it. Leela: That was over sixty years ago now. We didn’t know the language. I had to set up a house for my husband then our son. It was a lot of work. Mimi: That’s why now it’s our time to drink wine, sunbathe topless. Leela: Shhh….she’s a little too free with her words.   What was your greatest talent? Bonnie: I can beat Greg Norman on the golf course all day any day. Leela: I can grow anything plants, flowers, herbs, vegetables. Ming Na: Sneaking in snacks wherever it’s not allowed.   Where do you live? All: We’re the Nani’s of Napa!   Do you have any enemies? Bonnie: We’re loved by all and feared by many. Leela: The colonizers will always…