Melissa de la Cruz: “I wanted to write a tight novel that took place all in one evening.”

Aurora: What was your inspiration behind your most recent novel?

Melissa: Hitchcock’s Rope and also The Dinner Party by Herman Koch, both stories take place in one night. I wanted to write a tight novel that took place all in one evening. 

What character do you most relate to and why?

Ellie, because she’s a fun-house version of me, she says the things I would never say. But oddly I sympathize the most with Todd, her husband. He has to put up with her!

Why do you feel thriller/new adult books are so popular and have such a voice right now?

They’re such a fun escape, and the most dangerous place to be IS the home. I think I read that somewhere..

Please describe the content of your latest book and what can readers expect from the read.

I’ll let the review from Publishers Weekly say it for me: “a gripping domestic thriller that expertly combines satire with suspense…readers will be riveted.” It’s about turning 40, wanting to show off and having your past blow up the present.

What’s next for you in the book world?

The next book from me is Gotham High, my graphic novel about Batman, Catwoman and Joker in high school.

Who is your favorite writer right now and why?

Sally Rooney. She is so incredibly smart and heartbreaking. I loved both her books. I can’t wait for the BBC show!