What can readers expect from your new book Truly, Madly, Guilty?
Liane Moriarty
It's a story about something that happens at an ordinary backyard barbeque one ordinary Sunday afternoon, and I hope it offers readers a little suspense, a little laughter, possibly some tears, but mainly I hope it simply gives them the pleasure of a good read.
The book is about friendship and family so how important are these relationships in your own life?
Very important. Hugely important! It's those relationships that sustain you.
Where did your inspiration for the novel come from?
I was inspired by something that happened to me at a barbeque. I couldn't stop thinking about it for weeks afterwards. I can't tell you anything more because I'll give away too much of the plot.
Filming has begun on the HBO series Big Little Lies, so how did you react when you found out?
I was thrilled. I can't remember exactly how I reacted but I probably used it as an excuse for champagne, as I'm always looking for a new excuse for champagne.
The Husband's Secret has been optioned by CBS films- while you were writing this did you think about its potential for the big screen?
No, I absolutely did not. I always think that I spend too much time explaining my characters' inner thoughts, so I can never imagine how a scriptwriter would turn my books into movies. That's why I am more than happy to turn over the job to someone else. (The great David E.Kelley has written the script for Big Little Lies.)
You live in Sydney, so how inspirational has this been for your writing?
I always use Sydney as my setting, simply because I know it so well and I don't have to do any research.
What are your ideal writing conditions and what is your typical writing process?
I used to be more fussy about my writing conditions, but now I just need time - precious, uninterrupted time. Also a steady supply of chocolate. My writing process is simply to start writing. I have tried all sorts of different techniques - index cards, mind maps etcetera - but in the end, I just have to sit at my computer and write. There is always a lot of flailing about in the beginning, and groaning and unnecessary cups of tea, before the story finally gets its momentum and I can enjoy myself and remember why I love writing. (I do use a computer programme called 'Freedom' which restricts my access to the Internet and I couldn't write a book without it.)
Which authors have been your biggest inspiration?
Anne Tyler, Jojo Moyes, Maggie O'Farrell, Kate Atkinson, Marian Keyes, Kate Morton, Toni Jordan, Patrick Gale, Stephen King, P.G. Wodehouse, I could go on and on. When I was a child I was very influenced by Enid Blyton and the characters in my first stories all sound suspiciously English and not at all Australian.
Who are you reading right now?
I'm reading the first draft of a new children's book by my sister, the author Jaclyn Moriarty. It's amazing.
What is next for you?
I'm on the hunt for an idea for my next novel. I probably need some champagne to inspire me.
