Author Interview with Emily E K Murdoch
Updated: Aug 20, 2021
Gentle Readers, far later in the day than I would like... *dramatic drum roll*... I bring you a chat with Emily, historian and author extraordinaire. (Her site is here.)
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Do you have a certain quirk in your writing process?
I have to write in the mornings. Once it gets past three o’clock in the afternoon, my creative brain absolutely stops working and I’m only good for checking my emails and trying not to buy more books!
[WB: That totally makes sense, though. One's optimal hours are one's optimal hours!]
From all your books, who is your favorite hero and why?
Ohhhh, great question! I think probably Richard St. Maur, Duke of Axwick, the hero of Always the Bridesmaid. He’s faced his demons and he hasn’t quite conquered them, and I think that’s something that’s very attractive. He’s also absolutely convinced he’s right, and doesn’t suffer fools. What’s not to like?
Outside of your own genre, what’s your favorite genre?
I love reading fantasy! Many people are surprised to hear that, but it’s something I’ve loved since a child and so many friends and loved ones have recommended new series for me to enjoy. I think it ties into my love of historical fiction - fantasy gives me the chance to explore the history of different worlds.
What are your favorite winter traditions?
My family have a bunch of traditions, and it’s unsurprising that most of them revolve around food and drink! After a long country walk, I like to treat myself to a small glass of ginger wine - something to warm me up!
I love putting the fire on in the evening and seeing the flames flicker in the grate. I love curling up with a good book with a blanket - just perfect!
How do you feel about Dickens, really? (It’s okay to dislike him.)
I actually grew up just a few miles from where he lived in Kent, England, and so I kind of consider him a local hero! He had his downsides as a person, but his literature is just incredible. He constructs worlds that are utterly unique, and every year I watch as many versions of A Christmas Carol as I can find!
What inspired you to write your O Night Divine story?
My second and third novels in my Never the Bride series, Always the Chaperone and Always the Courtesan, include members of the same family, the Lennoxes. Two of the siblings end those books married (no spoilers!) but I kind of fell in love with the Lennoxes, and so did my readers. I promised myself that I would give the other two their happily ever afters, and so my O Night Divine story gives one of them just that!
If you could say something kind to reassure people this season, what would it be?
Even in the darkness, there is always a light. Whatever you are going through, whatever struggles you are facing, no matter how alone you feel - you are not. Someone loves you, someone is rooting for you, and there is a light for you.
[WB: YES!]
If you absolutely had to meet the ghost of Christmas Past, Future, or Present, which would you choose?
Oooohhhh... I think maybe the Present? I don’t like the idea of living in the past, and I am not sure that I want to have a view of the future. I like it being a surprise! Knowing what people really think of me in the present would be hilarious!
[WB: You are much braver than me...]
If your contribution is a lead-in to another series or novel, please describe the ensuing series or book here. (Include any pertinent links!)
William, John, Honora, and Prudence Lennox are waiting for you! If you want to meet the rest of the Lennox family, then you can find them in Always the Chaperone and Always the Courtesan, which are books 2 and 3 in my series - or start from the beginning with Always the Bridesmaid!
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Thank you so much, Emily! I'm so glad your story gives a beloved character a happy ending. I, for one, can't wait to read it.
The next author's post will be on Wednesday. I hope you're all enjoying getting to know more about O Night Divine. (Even if tomorrow is Halloween. But seriously, have fun and stay safe this weekend!)
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x Whitney