Q&A with Shalini Dua, The Secret Lives of Royals

What was your biggest inspiration while writing your book?

All of my travels, early history lessons from schooling in London and pop culture.

Which character in your book was most challenging to write about?

Alex and Connor. I was as torn between them as Olivia is.

Which authors have most influenced your writing?

Sophie Kinsella, Lewis Carrol, Emily Brontë, R. M. Drake, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Dorothy Parker, Sylvia Plath

What is your favorite scene in your book?

When Alex and Olivia discover the castle together. I love that they recapture the love they had when they were younger and pick up where they left off.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Always a writer. And someone who got to travel for work.

What is your favorite book of all time?

It’s a toss up between Alice in Wonderland and Wuthering Heights

Describe your writing style in three words.

Haphazard, coffee-fueled, madness

Any recent works that you admire?

Anything by R.M. Drake, Nikita Gill and Atticus
The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman

What is your writing process? 

I drink lots of coffee. Assemble my snacks. Make a playlist. Surf the internet. Wander around the house. Plan a vacation. Think of several errands that just can’t wait. Eventually sit down to write just as I’m supposed to be going to bed.