I had the pleasure to interview Attica Locke, a talented author that will leave you wanting more will her suspense thriller novels. She has released her third novel “Pleasantville” this past April 2015. “Pleasantville” is the follow up to “Black Water Rising” thriller.
Tell us about your latest novel “Pleasantville”.
“Pleasantville” is a legal thriller that takes place during a contentious mayoral race in Houston in 1996. At the beginning of the book, a block-walker handing out political flyers goes missing in the tiny hamlet of Pleasantville in north. The eventual court case surrounding what happened to her puts the entire election on trial. Jay Porter, the main character in my first book, Black Water Rising, takes on the case.
What was the inspiration behind the story “Pleasantville”?
My father ran for mayor of Houston in 2009. I got a chance to see dirty politics up close. It really got under my skin. Also because I’d already written a book about Houston’s political climate in the 1980s, it was interesting to me to write about that political climate 15 years later.
Who is your favorite character in the story? Why?
Jay Porter, the main character, who was a younger man in the first book. It’s interesting to see him as a somewhat older man.
What made you choose the setting Houston, Texas?
I grew up in Houston.
If there is a message you wanted your readers to walk away with after reading “Pleasantville”, what would that message be?
Change is inevitable. It’s best to find a way to survive it.
Who are some of your inspirations and influences in writing?
I read everything and everyone, about a book a week. I also take a lot of inspiration from music. I always write with music on. I’m particularly drawn to R&B of the 60s and 70s and blues. Lightning Hopkins is my muse.
Being a published writer, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?
Write, write, write. Until you have a manuscript that’s strong, there’s nothing to do but keep working to get your writing to the place where it needs to be. Take classes and get feedback from people who are not related to you.
Congratulations to you Attica on the release of a hot and suspense novel Pleasantville. You can learn more about Attica Locke by visiting her website at http://www.atticalocke.com/ . Be sure to follow her on social media to stay up with what’s she is working on. For the aspiring authors, Attica gives great advice to keep writing, take classes, and get feedback.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atticalocke
Twitter: @atticalocke
IG: https://instagram.com/atticalocke/
Photo Credits: Courtesy of Attica Locke