As we approach summer, it’s time to escape the chaos that 2020 has brought us. If you’re searching for a captivating story that allows you to lose yourself in someone else’s turmoil, look no further than Shiny Secrets, a novel by Mia Taylor. This gripping narrative follows the life of Lexi, a con artist determined to make one last score to leave her deceptive lifestyle behind. Enter celebrity influencer Chloe, the ideal target. However, Chloe’s connection to Lexi runs deeper than expected, complicating the con in ways Lexi never anticipated.
Mia Taylor recently shared her insights on crafting this enthralling tale and offered valuable guidance for budding writers.
The Narrative Perspective
The narrative unfolds through two distinct perspectives. Did you find yourself favoring one character over the other during the writing process?
Initially, I felt a strong bond with Lexi, the grifter. As the underdog, she’s relatable and a joy to write. However, as I delved deeper into Chloe’s character—an heiress battling emotional instability and familial issues—I found common ground with her, too. As a writer, it’s essential to connect with all protagonists to bring them to life. I aimed for readers to empathize with both Lexi and Chloe, so I embraced my affection for each character.
Influencer Research
In a previous article, you mentioned that you decided to unfollow influencers while conducting research for this book. What prompted that decision?
I had been following fashion and lifestyle influencers for insights, but over time, it negatively impacted my self-esteem. Constantly viewing perfectly curated images of glamorous lives can be detrimental to mental health. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison, even when critically analyzing those images. With the onset of the pandemic, many influencers seemed increasingly disconnected from reality. Who needs to see young adults flaunting luxury vacations while the world faces such dire circumstances?
However, I still enjoy following my favorite literary accounts!
Authenticity on Social Media
Do you believe true authenticity can exist on platforms that primarily showcase curated highlights?
Achieving complete authenticity can be challenging when sharing life with an audience, regardless of its size. While I may not have an extensive Instagram following, I am mindful of how I present myself. Even though I strive to post genuine moments, I only share a small fraction of my life. Naturally, I choose images that highlight the best aspects of my day, avoiding less flattering realities like laundry or parenting struggles. Although authenticity can occasionally shine through in social media, it often lacks context and can be curated in its own way.
Advice for Aspiring Authors
What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
I have two key pieces of advice: First, surround yourself with fellow writers. Join a writing class or workshop to connect with others on a similar journey. Share your work for feedback and encouragement. Second, focus on writing freely without the pressure of perfection. Your initial drafts don’t have to be flawless; the priority is getting your ideas down. Establishing a consistent word count goal can help maintain momentum.
Book Recommendations for Quarantine
What three books would you recommend for those navigating quarantine?
- Hopeful Journey by Angela Kim is a compelling and emotional courtroom drama that resonates on multiple levels.
- The Resilient Queen by Rufi Thorpe tells a touching and humorous coming-of-age story about a young gay man and his eccentric best friend.
- Hidden Truths by Sarah Sligar is a beautifully crafted suspense novel about a curator who uncovers unsettling secrets about a deceased artist.
In summary, Mia Taylor’s insights into authenticity and her writing process in Shiny Secrets provide a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of character development and the challenges of navigating social media. For more on home insemination topics, check out this resourceful blog post here and learn from Make a Mom about the best at-home insemination kits. You can also find valuable information on pregnancy and fertility at Facts About Fertility.
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