Interview with Natalie Shpet, Author of In Still Waters

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write In Still Waters?

In my youth I wrote scripts for school plays, and my literature teacher said that I had immense talent and should write my own book. To be honest, I took it as a joke and nothing more. However, in 2023, when my husband and I watched films (I won’t reveal the titles; I want readers to piece together this puzzle over time…I can only say that Jonathan Rhys Meyers starred in one of the films while Jake Gyllenhaal starred in the other). That’s why I dedicated my book “In Still Waters” to them! Thanks to Jake, my character Toby Clark was born, and thanks to Jonathan, Milosh Dobrev came to life.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I don’t have a favorite genre; I prefer to read in different ones. However, even after rereading many books, my all-time favorites remain: “The Great Gatsby,” “Dracula,” “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and “Anna Karenina.”

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Currently, on my reading list are “An American Tragedy,” “Wuthering Heights,” and “1984.”

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The birthday scene of Toby Clark.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Usually, when I write, I imagine a movie in front of me. I get so immersed in the story that I laugh and cry along with my characters.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

“If you have decided to act, close the doors to doubt.” © Friedrich Nietzsche

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I would like readers to understand the deep message of the book, how it reveals the essence of humanity, and how things could be different if people learned to live differently.

Natalie Shpet is the author of the new book In Still Waters

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