Niccolo Would Like a Word
by Jan Graham
Released: March 28, 2026
Genre: Suspense
Why this book and why now?
It began with a question: how do we cope with our outrage, as we watch men who prey on women rise to power, never being held accountable? What if the beast inside us was set free? In this case, in the form of a housecat who knows our deepest darkest urges? All of this felt timely, even if incredibly hard to cram into a novel that anyone would actually want to read. Especially since I wanted to slip in a lesbian romantic subplot.
What is a significant way your book has changed since either the first draft or the way you thought it would turn out when you first had the inspiration?
In the first draft, the cat had his own chapters, observing the human world from his point of view. Verly fun to write! But beta readers were NOT enthusiastic.
Would you and your main character(s) get along?
There are two MC’s, one impulsive and brash, the other shy and geeky. I’d totally get along with shy and geeky, she’s my favorite, but I have to admit impulsive and brash would be great to party with.
Do your character names have special significance or meaning?
Niccolo could be either Machiavelli, or Paganini (“The Devil’s Violinist”). A name connotating something dark but charming.
Did any real-life events or personal experiences influence the story?
Living for so many years in Provincetown, and appreciating all that is unique and insane about it, helped me frame the story. The town is almost a character itself; it demands that you pay attention to its rituals and rhythms.
How does it feel to finally share this book with readers?
Absurdly gratifying!
Is there anything you wish readers knew before diving into this book?
At first you might think you know where this is going, but there are huge twists coming, and so far people have really appreciated how differently they see things by the end of the novel.
What TV show would your main character(s) most likely binge watch and why?
Allison: Ted Lasso, she likes things sweet and heartfelt. Shannon: No Offense, an irreverant British cop show where women are badasses.
Which character do you relate to the most, and why?
Allison, introverted and insecure, but somehow finding her way.
Were there any scenes or characters that surprised you as you wrote?
Oh hell yeah! But I’d like to save the surprises for readers.
If your book were to be adapted into a movie or TV show, who would be your dream cast?
Shannon: Joanna Scanlan or Sarah Snook, fierce redheads who are impossible to ignore. Allison: Let’s see, would Rachael Maddow consider a career change?
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
A Provincetown Tea-Dance staple: I Will Survive. (Read the book and you will know why).
If your book had a scent, what would it smell like?
A salty sea breeze
If your book had an official mascot, what (or who) would it be?
Clearly a Lilac Point Siamese Cat!
Do you outline your books in detail, or do you prefer to discover the story as you write?
Outline first, then let the story develop on the page, then outline again as everything gets turned upside down.
Were there any books, movies, or personal experiences that influenced this story?
The novel Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine gave me an renewed appreciation for unreliable narrators. I like offbeat fiction with heart.
