There are a small number of people in the world who will overlook–much less appreciate–the glazed, distracted, off-putting self-absorption of an author whose eyes are still gleaming with the euphoria of having just finished a book. Kate Quinn is apparently one of those people. After finishing a piece late last night before collapsing in a heap, it occurred to me this morning that I had a lunch date with the smart, sassy, bestselling historical author. Given the stature of my lunch-date, it behooved me to drag myself into the shower, brush my teeth, and make some attempt at forcing my hair into a style. (Having failed at the latter, I adopted a furry white hat instead.)
We decided to meet at a local B&N, where we were hailed like conquering war heroes treated to the awkward apathy that so often accompanies a stock signing. After some creative Shelf-O-Mancy on Kate’s part, we got down to the more serious business of food. We visited an Amish Market where we were taunted and tempted by every wholesome heart-clogging delicacy known to man, chatted over traditional fare, then–as goat was not available on the menu–we decided to risk it all on the throw of a dice and have a vanilla pie. (Which was awesome.)
What was more awesome, of course, was the details of Kate’s upcoming work that I got out of her. (And cannot share. But would really like to, because you historical fiction fans are going to die!) Another awesome thing was the way Kate let me be not at my best. I rambled on about my forthcoming projects without ever once catching the inevitable glaze of boredom fall over her eyes. (She’s just that good.) Even better, she instinctively understood what the story was about, where it should go, and the challenges of shaping it.
Ahh, kindred spirits. This is why I’ve been trying to spearhead the local Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the Historical Novel Society. Because how many people can you really tell, with full enthusiasm, about the sexual ramifications of a World War I fighter-plane technique, juxtaposed with ancient Rome and unsung tales of American revolution history, all in the same conversation? Not many, I promise you!
And apparently I’ve been starved for historical novel conversations. Starved! I practically stalked Kate to her car after she treated me for lunch. So, if you’re ever lucky enough to be invited out to lunch by a historical novelists (or, if you’re super lucky, by Kate Quinn), then go.
Next time, Kate, the treat’s on me!
Haha, that sounded like a lot of fun. There’s one person I can be all historical and “nerdy” with it. But he’s at work on a different shift. None of my pals (besides for blogger pals) give a hoot. I’m dying to see what you and Kate Quinn have to offer in the future!
BTW, even though you might not care, I wanted to share a post of mine with you. Have you ever heard of storycasting.com? It’s a fun little site where people can “cast” books. Its a lot of fun. Lately, I’ve been sharing some of my “casts” on my blog. Today I shared my “cast” for ‘Lily of the Nile’. haha, here’s the linkie:
http://www.caroleraesramblings.com/2012/01/cast-that-book-lily-of-nile.html
Carole, not only do I care, but I was tickled pink! When I saw that casting, I was at a luncheon, however, and I couldn’t reply on my phone. I’ve been running around ever since then, however. It’s soooo sooo cool! I want to be involved in this StoryCasting thing and I’ve started the process, I just need to find ten minutes for fun 😉
That’s okay. =) I understand being busy. Being a full time student and working full time keeps me running around. Yeah! It’s a lot of fun, especially when there’s nothing else to do. And thanks so much for stopping by and commenting! It meant the world.
~CR~
How nice, Steph; glad you had that fantastic experience! Hope the next signing is something to write home about.
Carole Rae, I remember the casting you did for “Mistress of Rome” – Hugh Laurie was inspired casting for Marcus, btw. I love your cast here for “Lily of the Nile.” Stephanie, you should do your own blog post with ideal casting. Who’s your perfect Selene? Actually, I’ve got some ideas . . . got to get into this Storycasting thing. 😀
I’m not sure who my perfect Selene might be. I need to be more ‘up’ on my Hollywood stars. But for Song of the Nile and the more grown-up figures, I have better ideas for who should be who 😛
I can imagine how difficult full scale historical fiction must far among other authors, considering I am working on ‘semi-historical’ fantasy and having all sorts of bored writing friends around me!
I’m curious, how ‘historical’ does the Historical Novel Society require? As I said, I’m mostly semi-historical, and I’m also in Southern Delaware, which might be a little far from the group.
I don’t intend to be very picky about ‘how historical’ the historical should be, Patrick. My books are historical fantasy, or historical fiction with magic realism, so I can’t afford to be 😛 You’re certainly welcome to join us. I’ve made the drive to Southern Delaware. Not toooooo bad!