Get ready to learn more about the book The Misadventures of Callie Compton in this discussion with sapphic author Alyson Root.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz Alyson Root about The Misadventures of Callie Compton, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Road Trip category in the 2024 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write The Misadventures of Callie Compton?
I love a good adventure book. I wanted to write something that was fresh and fun. I think I wanted to break away from the heavier stories I’d previously written. Plus, it was my first time writing in first person, which was great. My wife and I love to travel, so this was a great way to share some of our favourite destinations.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
Daisy and Callie are equally my favourite characters. Callie is brave, smart, and confident. However, she is vulnerable and I love that side of her. Daisy has dealt with a world that expects her to bend to its will. She’s intelligent, crafty, and courageous. She’s used everything she was told was bad about her to her advantage. Together, they lift each other up. Their fierce loyalty is beautiful. I just love them both.
What inspired the idea for The Misadventures of Callie Compton?
I just wanted to write a book that was funny, exhilarating and full of love. I think it’s the fastest book I’ve ever written. The ideas and words flowed so effortlessly.
What part of The Misadventures of Callie Compton was the most fun to write?
Callie’s shenanigans, for sure. I loved writing about her experiences with people. Especially because I got to add sarcastic humour. The whole book was so much fun to write.
What is your favorite line from your book?
Imagine a very sexually aggressive woman bouncing on a bouncy castle and that’s what it was like. She straddled me and bounced from her knees onto the toy. No lube! From then on she just bounced like fucking Tigger clawing at my chest, roaring again. I have to hand it to her; the lion impression was impressive. I can only surmise she’s a massive fan of NatGeo.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing, and by whom?
I’ve had a lot of great advice. Some from other authors, but mainly from my wife. She’s not a writer, but she knows me and understands how I operate. I can get hyper-focused, which at times is great. However, more often than not, becoming hyper-focused on the wrong things affects my ability to have faith in myself and my work. Angelique is the calm to my chaos. She’s level headed and gives me logical and truthful advice about my writing. Because of that, I can recenter myself and stay on track.
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
In previous interviews, I’ve mentioned my ability to procrastinate like a pro. That’s still the case. Having a small group of friends has helped me a bunch, especially when I need accountability. Crystal, my podcast partner, is the best at helping me refocus. To be honest, my brain does whatever the hell it likes, which at times is brilliant because I can bash out several chapters a day. Mainly though, it takes me on a rollercoaster ride of tasks and randomness throughout the day. I’ve learned to roll with it. I always get my books done on time, and that’s the most important thing.
What type of books do you enjoy reading the most?
My tastes are definitely growing. I’m still a sapphic literature lover. All the books I read have at least a sub genre of sapphic romance. But recently I’ve been exploring fantasy. I adore sapphic pirate books, and I’m also getting into shifter books. Isn’t reading fantastic!
Describe your favorite reading spot.
In the winter, it is by the fire in my living room. It’s very cozy. Spring summer and fall (weather permitting) I love nothing more than sitting on my deck looking out over our garden and reading. It’s peaceful and alive with birdsong. Nothing beats it.
