Interview with Erica J Whelton, Author of Decoding Us
12 Jul 2023
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Decoding Us?
It’s inspired by my own PIMs (online mom’s group that meet on BabyCenter over twenty years ago). We have had many adventures together. Some of our group isn’t as active, and we’ve split into smaller groups, but the core of it is still intact. We are always there for each other. They have helped me through some dark times, and I’ve tried to be there for them. It is also inspired by the stage of life I’m at now. Middle-aged, empty-nester, marriage things, illness, parents.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Decoding Us, what would they be?
Gir’s Just Wanna Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper, Love Shack by the B-52s, and Footloose by Kenny Loggins.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
If it has words in it, I read it, but I guess I gravitate to Women’s Fiction, book club type books which is what I also like to read. I also enjoy a good Cozy Mystery which I also write.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Honestly? Too many to list.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
When the friends are face to face with their rival treasure hunters. There are a few others, but I don’t want to give spoilers.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I have to have Marvel Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D on while I write. Not sure why, but it helps me focus.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
You can’t edit blank pages.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Everyone needs special people in their life and taking a break from life isn’t going to solve your problems, but it might just give you a new outlook.
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