What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
They say, “Write what you know.” I’m originally from Minnesota, and I come from a family of nurses, so that inspired the Minnesota Northwoods setting and Night Nurse Nancy herself. As I developed Nancy’s character, I had so much fun creating a protagonist who was a little older, a little tougher, and a lot more into bedazzling than your average heroine.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
Nancy’s theme song would be “Night Nurse” by Gregory Isaacs. And jewel thief Sir Stephen Sinclair’s song would be the James Bond theme.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
What’s not my favorite might be easier to answer—but I’ll try. I read thrillers, spy fiction, humor, cozy crime, historical, literary, romance, and sci-fi fantasy. The Night Nurse and the Jewel Thief live in that lighthearted caper-with-romance space, so it’s very much my wheelhouse.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser — I love reimagined fairy tales! And The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See. I’ve been meaning to get to Lisa See’s books for years.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
I loved writing the scene where Nancy first encounters the billionaire’s mansion. It was describing a mysterious, modern villain’s lair, and Nancy’s reaction to it. Very fun!
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
My two Persian cats, Pearl and Wilma, always keep me company. Their favorite character is the daring cat in The Night Nurse and the Jewel Thief, Dr. GoldenPaw.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
I love these words from Anne Rice: “To write something you have to risk making a fool of yourself.”
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
It’s never too late to become someone new.
Marilee Dahlman is the author of the new book, The Night Nurse and the Jewel Thief
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