What Really Matters
by Rita Potter
Released: May 13, 2025
Genre: Literary Fiction
Why this book and why now?
Due to the nature of the subject matter, I know some readers will shy away from What Really Matters. I hope they don’t. More than ever, with people being so divisive, we need to remember how we felt in the days after September 11, 2001. The country and the world came together. Despite the awful tragedy, we saw the best in people. The heroism of the first responders. The kindness of strangers, especially in places like Gander, Newfoundland. Most importantly, we felt connected to our neighbors, regardless of whether they voted red or blue. I want to remember those days and find a way back to them.
Did any real-life events or personal experiences influence the story?
I believe all of us have a personal experience when it comes to what happened on September 11. Like the majority of people, I witnessed it on television from my home in the Midwest, which is why I have one character who is doing just that. While the book focuses mostly on New York City, because of my own experience I felt I had to include the perspective of those watching from afar.
How does it feel to finally share this book with readers?
Scary! Very, very scary. I know this was a risky book to write, but it holds a very special place in my heart. I’ve become accustomed to critiques, but negative critiques about this book will cut a little deeper.
Is there anything you wish readers knew before diving into this book?
This was a difficult and emotional book to write. Before I started writing, I read several books and watch countless videos since I wanted it to be as authentic as possible. While I was writing the scenes in the towers, I played YouTube videos of actual newcasts from that day, so I could immerse myself in the feeling.
What’s one fun fact about your book that most people wouldn’t know?
I hesitated to write this book. The reason this book exists today is because of the encouragement of my friend and fellow author Nan Campbell. I didn’t think it was my story to tell since I’m not a New Yorker. Nan happened to be in the subway traveling under the World Trade Center when the plane hit, so how could someone who watched it unfold from their living room have any right to tell the story. Nan convinced me that I did have the right and encouraged me to do so. I’m glad she did and appreciate her support. Not only was she a beta reader for this book, and all my others, but she also connected me with one of her friends who was in the building next door when it happened, so I had two beta readers who were there that day.
Were there any scenes or characters that surprised you as you wrote?
Yes! But I can’t say why or how or it would be a spoiler ;).
If you could spend a day with one character from the book, who would it be and why?
Lindsey. I always end up with a crush on one of my characters, and she is my crush in What Really Matters.
Publishing a book is a huge accomplishment and it’s time to party! Choose a celebratory beverage for one of your main characters to toast the release of your new book.
An old fashioned. At the beginning of the book, Amelia orders an old fashioned, thinking it sounds sophisticated, but she has no idea what kind of alcohol is in it. Much to Amelia’s horror she discovers it’s whiskey. Since Amelia is a good sport, she’d be able to laugh at herself and toast with an old fashioned.
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
Due to the subject of the book, they will play The Star-Spangled Banner!
Were there any books, movies, or personal experiences that influenced this story?
I researched this topic extensively. The books that were my favorite are: 102 Minutes by Jim Dwyer, The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett Graff, and Fall and Rise by Mitchell Zuckoff.
What are you currently reading?
I’m reading The Tenant by Frieda McFadden. It was just released, and I am a huge suspense/thriller junkie. One day, I want to be able to create a page turner like she does.
