Get ready to learn more about the book Meeting Millie in this discussion with sapphic author Clare Ashton.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz Clare Ashton about Meeting Millie, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Slow Burn category in the 2024 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write Meeting Millie?
I wanted to write a series in Oxford where I used to live. We moved away to be closer to family when we had kids, but I miss the place horribly. I wanted to enjoy living there again in my imagination, and thought why not write a series set in that beautiful city and also indulge in all my favourite tropes at the same time.
I started the series with this friends to lovers romance. In fact it’s friends to enemies, then (through a second chance) back to friends then to lovers. I didn’t think of it as slow burn while I was writing, but given their long route to their HEA, it’s not surprising it turned out to be that trope!
Who is your favorite character in the book?
I can’t pick a favourite between the main characters, Millie and Charlotte! They are my favourite couple that I’ve written, probably because of their long history as friends and the strong sense that they should be together.
So I won’t pick a main character, I’ll go for Millie’s quick-witted and outspoken landlady and ex-professor, Virginia, who isn’t afraid to tell it like it is. Am I like her? God, I wish!
What part of Meeting Millie was the most fun to write?
Charlotte and Millie simply being together. Whether in the past, or becoming friends again, or realising how much they are in love. Those two have always adored each other and that was a wonderful sentiment to write through the book.
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?
Yes, this is book 1 of a series, and book 2 is out now – Tempting Olivia! This features Charlotte’s other best friend, Olivia, who plays a large part in book 1. She’s cool, ferociously intelligent and has a dry sense of humour. You get to see a different perspective on Millie and Charlotte in this one as well as seeing those two develop further.
What is your favorite line from your book?
“Millie held her a little longer. She wondered if this was the secret to happiness. Find someone who smelled of honey and knew when to pass the pain relief and the refined-sugar snacks.”
What’s your favorite writing snack or drink?
It’s coffee. Without it? I. Do. Not. Function.
How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
How I’d like to celebrate: Champagne! Go out with friends! Party streamers!
How I actually celebrate: Collapse in a heap. Maybe have a nap. Crawl to the nearest cup of coffee.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing, and by whom?
Quite a common piece of advice, and valuable too I think: “You don’t like every book you read so you can’t expect everyone to like your book.”
From writing style to the characters, everyone has very personal taste. And reviews say just as much about the reviewer as the book they review.
This perspective really helps with moving on after a bad review!
Have you ever fallen in love with one of your characters?
I think I have to fall in love with both main characters through the eyes of the other in a book. Unless I feel that longing, I can’t write their story. So, in a way, yes I have.
I found it easy for this one. Neither are perfect people, and are perfectly balanced in that respect. They’re both out of their depth at university when they first meet and immediately support each other.
Their affection is apparent right from the start. Romantic love doesn’t come straightaway. But love is always there, and by the time romance arrives many years later, it’s a deep, deep well for these two.
What type of books do you enjoy reading the most?
I want a book that takes me on an emotional rollercoaster. This is why I’m drawn to romance so much because you are guaranteed that trip! But anything that has love, is emotionally gripping, is poignant and has surprising human connections I adore.
What books have you read more than once in your life?
I reread favourite romances often. It’s like taking holiday (vacation).
When I find a setting that’s comforting (usually small town) and characters that are engaging and a rollercoaster of a romantic arc then I’ll want to revisit!
For example, Pride and Prejudice. Many Melissa Brayden romances – Kiss the Girl, Entangled, To The Moon and Back. Nochebuena by Stephanie Shea. One Walk in Winter by Georgia Beers. And many more!
