Get ready to learn more about the book My Best Plan in this discussion with sapphic author Cris Ascunce.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz Cris Ascunce about My Best Plan, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Set in Europe category in the 2024 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write My Best Plan?
I’ve always wanted to write a story that took place during the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The problem was that I had to wait until those rights were granted—Florida being the last state to adjust its adoption laws. In this fight, I wanted to portray a couple with different views regarding these rights. One wanted a family, and the other was determined to fight for her right to keep her family.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
My favorite character is Martha. She is one of the main character’s mother and the other MC’s mother-in-law. She’s the voice of reason for both characters and provides love and understanding.
What inspired the idea for My Best Plan?
The history in Florida for its anti-LGBTQ rights
What was the biggest challenge writing this book?
The most challenging was to write in both characters’ POV.
What part of My Best Plan was the most fun to write?
The places in Spain they go to.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
It is one long, arduous plan, and Gene, the main character feels it’s her best plan.
Where do you usually write, and what do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
I write at my desk in my home office or on the deck on my patio when the weather isn’t blisteringly hot in Miami. I need silence to concentrate.
How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
Pop a chilled bottle of Champagne!
Is there a particular genre you would love to write but only under a pseudonym?
I would love to be able to write a thriller. I’d use a pseudonym because if it’s terrible, it won’t ruin my reputation (not that I have much of one). I’m also afraid it won’t sell if my readers only expect romances from me.
Do you have any odd writing quirks?
When I get really involved in the writing, where I can’t stop, not even to pee… I like to write with my desk in the stand up position.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing, and by whom?
Julia Whelan and Stephen King say that to be a good writer, you must read widely and in many genres. I have found that I appreciate more than just Women’s Fiction and Romance. I’ve delved into fantasy, thrillers, and mysteries.
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
My dyslexia slows me down, especially in the editing phase, because I’m a slow reader.
If you could be mentored by a famous author (living or not), who would it be?
Lisa Jewell
What type of books do you enjoy reading the most?
My tastes have changed. For a long time, I only read lesbian romances. But now I’ve gotten into reading much more widely. I’m currently on a Lisa Jewell kick with her thrillers.
What books have you read more than once in your life?
I go back to Radclyffe’s Against Doctor’s Orders and Perscription for Love because they are so well written that I just love them for the writing.
What book do you wish you had written?
It’s more of a series… Chronicles of The One. I love the strong women in each of these books. In the first book, Year One, I would write about Riley and Fred (who’s a female) falling in love. In Of Blood and Bone, I would have Tonia and Fallon Pine for each other. And the last book, The Rise of Magicks, I would end with Tonia and Fallon saving the world and setting up house so they can grow their little family.
Describe your favorite reading spot.
A comfortable chair that rocks or reclines—my recliner in the family room, or the swivel rocker on the patio.
