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Every Good Story Needs Conflict
The Unexpected Guests follows a recently divorced woman trying to piece her life back together who reconnects with a successful author in hopes of finding a second chance at love. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I was partway through writing My Year of Casual Acquaintances, the first book in the South Bay Series, my critique partner suggested I eliminate the character of the narrator’s mother, Gwendolyn. I can swear I heard Gwendolyn yelling, “Bloody hell!” (She’s English.) “You’re not getting rid of me so fast!” So you might say that Gwendolyn inspired me to write a sequel, one that would have a more substantial role for her. It’s true that fictional characters sometimes take on their own lives.
Once I decided there would be a sequel, I wrote Casual Acquaintances with an open-ended finish. Some reviewers call it a cliff-hanger, but I think that may be a bit of an overstatement. Hopefully, though, there is enough suspense for readers to come back for the second installment.
What was your inspiration for the characters’ interactions and backstories?
I love stories that deal with new beginnings and second chances, especially among middle-aged and older characters. I started exploring this topic in the first book and took it a step further in Unexpected Guests—which deals not only with midlife issues but also, to a lesser extent, with the elderly condition. I think there’s a big audience for this subject, when you consider the popularity of recent works like Elizabeth Strout’s novels and also (in a different vein), the Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osmon. You’re never too old for adventures and love!
I also like to explore the nature of family and the idea that the people in one’s family” are not always relatives. The three main characters in this book are not related, but their close ties to Margaret form a common bond that causes their lives to intersect in ways they never would’ve expected.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?
Most of us are social beings who crave interaction, but we constantly manage to screw up and sabotage our relationships, hurting the people we care about the most. Every good story needs conflict, and dysfunctional relationships are rife with conflict and drama. I also think real-life people are complex, so I like my characters to be complicated too. I find them so much more interesting than cookie-cutter heroes and villains.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
I’ve made a lot of notes for a third book in the series; but with two books publishing so close together, I haven’t had a moment to spare for any actual writing. I am hoping things will settle down before long.
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The Unexpected Guests
The Unexpected Guests, by Ruth F. Stevens, dives into the tangled web of midlife relationships, family dynamics, and the journey of self-discovery. At the center of this contemporary fiction is Margaret, a recently divorced woman trying to piece her life back together. She rekindles a complicated connection with Charlie, a successful but emotionally guarded author. The story intricately weaves together the lives of various characters, each with their own struggles and secrets. Margaret’s friend, Sunny, faces her own battles with love and career, while Gwendolyn, Margaret’s mother, harbors a past shrouded in mystery. Set against the vibrant backdrop of South Bay in Los Angeles, the narrative delves into love, second chances, and the inevitable chaos that others bring into our lives. This book appeals to readers who crave character-driven tales infused with humor, heart, and a touch of drama.
Ruth Stevens’ The Unexpected Guests offers a warm, heartfelt reading experience. The story invites readers into the lives of seemingly ordinary characters grappling with life’s oddities. Their experiences resonate deeply, making the narrative feel intimate and personal. Certain characters stand out, their stories laced with tension yet softened by the tenderness in Stevens’ prose. This balance evokes empathy as they navigate old wounds and new opportunities. The writing flows effortlessly, accessible yet charming. The prose sparkles with wit and emotion, striking a balance between light-hearted moments and more reflective, poignant scenes. I do feel that the dialogue sometimes feels as if the characters are speaking past each other rather than engaging in genuine conversation. This detracts slightly from the otherwise engaging narrative.
Each character, even the secondary ones like Sunny and Gwendolyn, is thoughtfully crafted. They bring their unique dilemmas to the story, enriching the main narrative in meaningful ways. Stevens excels in portraying relationships, whether romantic, familial, or platonic. The flaws in these characters make them more endearing, drawing readers deeper into their lives and struggles. The plot leans toward a slice-of-life approach, focusing on emotional depth rather than high-stakes drama. This style may resonate with those who enjoy introspective, character-focused stories. The pacing is steady, and these quieter scenes offer valuable space to reflect on the characters, enhancing understanding and connection.
The Unexpected Guests explores love, second chances, and the beautifully messy nature of human relationships. It’s a moving story for readers who appreciate well-drawn characters and narratives that feel both genuine and heartfelt.
Pages: 355 | ASIN : B0DFCS8BKN
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