Interview with P. Mittra, Author of Wilshire Pointe

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?

The gift of time was given to me by a surgery I had undergone during the summer of 2025. I had decided to take the summer off and refrain from seeing clients, heal, and spend time with my children. One night, my daughter asked me to lie with her in bed, but I was far from sleepy. I took my laptop with me and said, “I can’t sleep.

Let’s write something scary!” Her face lit up. And that’s how it began. Some people wake up one day and say, “I think I’ll write a book!” For me, it was the opposite—I couldn’t sleep. The insomnia was my silver lining.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?

Oh, I just love this question! I have many. The novel is set in the late ’70s, so these songs would resonate with the time period and storyline—also some of my favorites! Alabama Song by The Doors Oye Como Va by Santana Dreams by Fleetwood Mac Somebody to Love by Queen Paint It Black by The Rolling Stones People Are Strange by The Doors Riders on the Storm by The Doors Fame by David Bowie

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

Mystery, thriller, or horror have always been my favorite genres to read. Now it is my favorite to write. If you write what you enjoy reading, you will be more enthusiastic about your work. Anything created with enthusiasm always turns out fabulous.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

All the Dangerous Things / Stacy Willingham, My Husband’s Wife / Alice Feeney, The Reformatory / Tananarive Due.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The scene where Jane is lured into the forest.

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

I need to remove my contact lenses, wear my glasses, and have my face washed. Hot coffee nearby is a must. And I need to put my feet up. That’s about it.