Thursday, March 31, 2022

Q&A with Barbara Francesca Murphy

 


 

 

Barbara Francesca Murphy is the author of the new novel Lucina's Letters. She also has written the book Second Chances. She lives in Ireland.

 

Q: What inspired you to write Lucina's Letters, and how did you create your character Lucina?

 

A: For me, creating each person and their quirks was fun and challenging at the same time. Lucina is the matriarch of the family, the go-to person, the person who wants to bring everyone together. I suppose I was looking to create a strong person who plays a key role in this family saga.

 

Q: Did you know how the novel would end before you started writing it, or did you make many changes along the way?

 

A: I knew how the book would end but I made small changes along the way too. I changed Theresa's story toward the end, bringing her together with a man and finding forgiveness for her nieces.

 

Q: The novel is set in Ireland and Italy--how important is setting to you in your writing?

 

A: Settings are quite important for me. Describing a location in detail can help the reader to really visualise the place and maybe even become curious about it.


Q: What do you hope readers take away from the story?

 

A: Besides enjoying the reading experience, probably that families are complicated and that each situation feels unique to each individual. 

 

Q: What are you working on now?

 

A: I am working on a story about four girlfriends with complicated pasts, secrets and deception. They embark on a holiday together where everything comes to a head.

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb

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