Interview with Alice McVeigh, Author of Marianne

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel?

I relate to Marianne, as she’s the most impulsive and the most musical of Austen’s characters. (I have been diagnosed with ADHD and spent years of my life jetting around the world playing cello professionally with various London orchestras.) I also relate to her younger sister, Margaret, whom I’ve portrayed as a wannabe author. Basically, I love to take Austen’s characters and mix them up. In my Susan, a youthful Lady Susan accepts Frank Churchill’s proposal (from Emma, of course)—and then dumps him. Here, the gorgeous Marianne Brandon, widowed and determined to remain single, is pursued not only by the silly Rushworth (from Mansfield Park), but by her ex, Willoughby, and Henry Crawford.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel, what would they be?

For Marianne, “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina.” For Margaret, “I Could Write a Book.” Not sure about Willoughby or Crawford.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Will read anything—including the back of cereal packets. As for writing, I kicked off with contemporary fiction for Hachette, veered into sci-fi, and have settled on historical fiction/romance.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I try to read the Booker Prize shortlist before the winner is announced. This year, though..not gonna happen!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I write scenes out of order, the fun ones first. Then I stitch it all together. (Weird ADHD trait number 901!)

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

My husband and I have two adorable long-haired dachshunds. Tough to write with one of those on your lap!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

There are books for the moment, and books for all time.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

How similar in style it is to Austen’s own writing. (Here’s hoping!)

Alice McVeigh is the author of the new book Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel

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