Painting Stars is the captivating story of Robin, a young woman who overcomes her dysfunctional childhood and builds a life keeping others safe from people like her own family. Where did the idea for this novel come from, and how did it develop over time?

At first, I wanted to write a more autobiographical novel, but then the characters and the story took on a life of their own!

I’m Italian, and I’m an auntie with long red hair and a love for art, but my similarities with Robin end here. For the fictional elements, sources of inspiration were the movie The Thomas Crown Affair and the book Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah.

What are some things you find interesting about the human condition that make for great fiction?

How past events can impact our present and future in terms of behavior and decision-making processes. Great fiction seamlessly interweaves flashbacks with the present time, which is a very hard feat to accomplish as a writer.

If we get it right, readers can gradually understand and empathize with the characters by uncovering layer by layer all the facets of their personalities.

What is one pivotal moment in the story that you think best defines Robin?

When she finds out that she has a nephew, Robin is willing to upend her life and try her best to give him the kind of love she didn’t have growing up.

Where do you see your characters after the book ends?

I’m considering writing a sequel, so I’ll avoid spoilers for now 🙂