Molly Thorpe’s Much Ado Over a Duke released this week, and she was kind enough to answer some questions for us.
You can get your copy of this delightful start to a new series HERE!
Did you always know you wanted to be an author? What is the first story you remember writing? How did you get from there to where you are today?
I always knew I wanted to write—apologies for being trite! I’ve always found ways to make writing a part of my life; whether in academia or in my public policy roles. I have loved coming up with stories since I was a child, and I come from a family of gifted storytellers. Being an author seemed like such a distant dream; I am amazed that I have made it this far!
The first story I really remember writing was about an adventurer seeking a lost artefact. I was in the sixth grade, and I won a competition at my school. Every creative needs the moment when the belief in your work comes from outside of yourself. It was a huge moment for me, that someone was able to look at my story and saw what I hoped to convey. My confidence in my ability has grown since then, but whenever I am knocked down by the industry (often enough!), I am able to recall that moment. And I dust myself off and keep going.
What is the most inspiring place you’ve visited and has it shown up in one of your books? 
Scotland is incredible—the sweeping, dramatic vistas really inspired the second book in my Nichols’ sisters series. I lived in England for three years while completing my Master’s degree and I fell in love with its charming countryside. Hertfordshire in particular was very beautiful and often features as a character in my work!
How much research do you do into the time period and places you write about? Do you have any experience dressing in character or participating in living history situations or are you more a fan of libraries and online resources?
I do an incredible amount of research. My background in history and archaeology has really provided me with a thorough knowledge of the past. I love research—whenever I hit a writing roadblock, I know it’s time to hit the books and see if I can find a thread of inspiration. Usually there are incredible finds to be plucked!
I used to dress in historical costume when I worked as a summer student for a local museum. I had to wear stays and everything! Part of my living history presentation had me cooking over an open fire (I certainly wasn’t one of the hoity-toity regency ladies I write about!). You can absolutely find me haunting my local library. I will often visit the local archives as well and read letters penned during the regency to get a flavour for the language.
What drew you to the era you write in? Is there something about the time period you think most people don’t know about? What do you think would be the most difficult part about living in that period?
I love the manners of regency England and the small social quirks! It makes writing social situations especially fun! You can really up the awkwardness of a scene or the tension in a conversation. I am always interested in what characters are trying to hide or put on airs to cover up. The Regency is basically a gift for a person who loves writing dialogue and banter!
One of the funniest things I found out was that the ‘one bed at the inn’ trope was basically a reality. It was not uncommon for people to share beds when travelling, sometimes with complete strangers.
Can I be super millennial and say no guacamole? Or what about air conditioning? Or modern plumbing? Or penicillin? I could go on and on… and now I am starting to feel bad for some of my poor heroines enduring natural childbirth…
What are your favorite kind of characters to write?
Can’t answer, I love them all equally.
Do you have a specific trope that you’re drawn too?
Gosh, it’s a toss-up between marriage of convenience and opposites attract. I just love throwing two people together.
Where is your favorite place to write? Does it change depending on where you are in the process?
My sweet little desk or somewhere overlooking a window. I’m not fussy. I like background noise. For editing, I love racking my brain while in a busy coffee-shop. I could draft anywhere though (god, I love drafting).
Which comes first for you: the plot or the characters?
Characters, always.
Do you know where the story is going before you begin, or does it come to you as you write? Do scenes come to you fully formed or are you as surprised as the reader?
I always know the general shape. I write all of my blurbs and then usually a one-page synopsis before I begin drafting. But I allow myself some flexibility. That’s part of the fun, after all!
Does your writing process include any kind of ritual? Story specific playlists, tea, or candles, for example?
No, not at all! I am truly a hack. I just need myself and a writing implement. Though I do adore throwing a record on, usually a soundtrack album from a movie.
Do you write better in the morning or evening? How do you handle the distractions of working from home, especially if you’re sharing the space with others?
I am a whiz at drafting in the morning. I usually save afternoons/ evenings for editing. I really only have about an hour of hardcore editing in me a day. After about two/ three hours my drafting brain is also fried. I am not great at handling distractions, I simply try to roll with the punches.
When it’s difficult to physically travel, how do you find ways to escape?
Definitely a good comfort movie! I love all the Jane Austen adaptations.
From all your books, who is your favorite hero and why?
I feel like I cannot disclose this, because I am soooo fond of the heroes for my new series. But, I am sure as many readers can tell, Justin Wright is one of my favorite heroes. What can I say? He’s my OG.
What do you like to read when you’re not reading in your genre?
I love non-fiction! I am current reading Robert Caro’s excellent four-part biography on Lyndon B. Johnson. I love horror as well; I am always queued up for the latest Grady Hendrix.
Did you have a favorite book or series when you were growing up?
Oh gee, so many! Phillip Pullman’s books were huge for me, as well as the Narnia books. Gail Carson Levine was a huge influence on me; I still have that very worn copy of Ella Enchanted! In my late teens I discovered Lisa Kleypas and Tessa Dare and never looked back. Georgette Heyer and Anne Gracie also have special places in my heart.
