Invisible
by Anna Larner
Released: Dec 12, 2023
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Why this book and why now?
I always say that I write from my heart, and this is true, but when it comes to Invisible I would go further and say I have written it from my heart and my soul. We’ve all felt that sense of invisibility at times haven’t we, of needing to muster courage to keep going, of seeking inspiration in the incredibly brave heroines who have gone before. These are the themes within Invisible that resonate so deeply.
And the world feels such an uncertain place right now that I am proud of the message of kindness and hope that shines through Invisible. It means the world to me that it will put a smile on the face of readers. As a reviewer commented, “Violet’s spirit is magical. I recommend this book on a day when you need some sunshine.”
So to sum up Invisible – think Wonka meets Mr Benn but with lesbians and you will understand the magical vibe of the book which makes it the perfect Christmas read.
Do your character names have special significance or meaning?
The name of the book’s heroine Violet Unwin is central to the book. It is the link to Violet’s inheritance, the costume shop Unwin’s Emporium, and to her great-great-grandmother, the Suffragette Vi Unwin. One of the most powerful scenes in the book for me is when Violet, who has felt alone all her young life, realises that she shares her name with her brave ancestor Vi. From that moment everything changes for Violet as Vi becomes real in her heart and alive in her imagination.
What 3 things would your main character want with them if they got stranded away from civilization, and why?
Violet would choose a photo of her mum, her craft box, and the red tunic of a Coldstream Guard.
Violet had always thought there were no photos of her late mum until she mysteriously finds one as if by magic as she leaves the Emporium for the last time. Her craft box is everything to Violet as through her ingenuity she can make the most wonderful things from nothing at all. The first outfit that Phoebe, Violet’s love interest, tried on was a Coldstream Guard’s uniform. Violet never forgot that moment and so on her desert island she can wrap herself up warm in memories of Phoebe and be seen dressed in red like a flag for her rescuers.
One of your main characters is planning a romantic night. Tell us about it.
With the help of drag king Mr Duke (Dee), Violet would surprise Phoebe by a performance on stage as the handsome and beautiful Valiant Unwin. It would be a private show for one and the finale would be a magical light show of stars at The Banana Bar, the place that rescued them both.
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
It has to be, ‘I Am What I Am’ by Gloria Gaynor. At the heart of Invisible is the message of the celebration of individuality.
When Violet meets Phoebe, she is thrust into the exciting world of The Banana Bar where Violet finds her confidence, her self-esteem and her unapologetic inner swagger – everything we should all have. After all, what is life if we do not have the courage to live it fully?
“It’s one life and there’s no return and no deposit
One life, so it’s time to open up your closet
Life’s not worth a damn
‘Til you can shout out, I am what I am”
