Get ready to learn more about the book Where the Heart Leads in this discussion with sapphic author Ally McGuire.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz Ally McGuire about Where the Heart Leads, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Latinx Author category in the 2024 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write Where the Heart Leads?
I wanted to try my hand at romance after having written for years in sci-fi and fantasy. Where the Heart Leads was my first and it presented some new challenges…
Who is your favorite character in the book?
Luna! While she’s not a main character, as the daughter of the main character she plays an important role. I grew to really love watching her face the difficulties in life and how she and Finn developed their friendship.
What was the biggest challenge writing this book?
I’d never written a romance, so the challenge was within the genre itself! Romance is deeply character driven, so I had to really get to know each character and what made them tick. I also needed a non-external conflict to help carry the story, so it took a lot of thought.
How much research did you need to do for Where the Heart Leads?
Quite a bit! I’m originally from LA, so that part was pretty easy. But when Finn goes back to the Dominican Republic for a funeral, I needed to have a good sense of the culture, the layout, and the expectations. As a Latina myself, I understood some of the familial ramifications, but there were plenty of other considerations too. It was important to me that I get it right.
What is your writing process like?
When I’m writing spec-fic under my other name, I’m an absolute pantser. But I found that with romance I need to do some planning. I need to know what obstacles I’m going to place in their way because they don’t naturally fall out of the plot like salt the way they do when you’re writing spec-fic. They have to be really character based. That meant a lot of notes in my notebook about who they are. It’s a totally different process, and I’m learning to appreciate it.
What’s your favorite writing snack or drink?
I’m a nibbler. I like to nibble constantly, like some kind of deranged rabbit. Small snack size pretzels are my go-to, along with a big glass of Thai iced tea.
Do you have any odd writing quirks?
I stare out the window and watch the scene unfold as I type, like I’m watching a movie and just writing down what I see. It helps that I’m a touch typist!
What animal or object best represents you as an author or your writing style?
I think a panda is a good representation of me as a romance author. Sweet, soft, cuddly, and occasionally baffling in their lack of balance and common sense.
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
I get in my own way. I let imposter syndrome mess with me and convince me that I’m not good at this writing lark (despite three GCLS awards). I have a couple readers who are insanely supportive, and they really help remind me that there are people out there who like what I put down.
Have you ever fallen in love with one of your characters?
I think I fall in love with all of my butch characters. (Not the femmes, though. Not my type. 😉 ) I definitely have a type, and when I’m writing, they’re all my type. I think they have to be in order for me to write the romantic part–I need to feel it. I love a dashing, strong character who could sweep me off my feet, and I love the butch-femme dynamic.
Describe your favorite reading spot.
I love curling up in bed under a thick duvet with a cup of coffee at my side.
Have you ever thought you’d hate a book, but ended up loving it?
I wasn’t sure about Legends and Lattes because of all the hype, but I think the hype was well deserved. I ended up really enjoying it.
