Interview with Elena Ambrose, Author of Out of Hope
26 Mar 2025
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Out of Hope?
When I first came up with the idea for the book, I had read several different stories of forbidden love, all set in fantastical worlds. This got me thinking: what would forbidden love look like in real life? That question sparked the creation of my characters, and from there, the rest of the story took shape.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Out of Hope, what would they be?
I’m not sure I have a theme song for the characters, but there are a few songs I listened to a lot while writing the book: “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Perfume Genius, “To Love Someone” by Benson Boone, and “Proibito” by Marco Mengoni.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I enjoy reading a wide range of genres, as long as the characters are intriguing and the plots are compelling. However, if I had to pick a favorite, it would be romance. My novel is a contemporary romance, as I wanted to write something that I would personally love to read.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I’m currently reading “One True Loves” by Taylor Jenkins Reid. After that, I plan to read “That Month in Tuscany” by Inglath Cooper.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
I don’t want to give too much away, so I’ll keep it vague, but I really enjoyed writing the scenes between Patrick and Hannah, particularly toward the end of the book. It was fascinating to explore all the emotions and feelings shared between them.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I like to write in the mornings before my family wakes up. I always need a cup of coffee with me, and I enjoy listening to music while I write. I created a playlist for the book, and it really helped set the mood, especially when writing emotional scenes.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I would like them to take away not only a deep love for the characters but also a sense of empathy and hope. I wanted to convey the complexity of who we are and show that change and forgiveness are always possible.
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