Interview with Robyn Carr, author of Wildest Dreams

Blake Smiley, a professional triathlete, has travelled the world, but Thunder Point has what he needs to put down the roots he’s never had. In the quiet coastal town he can focus on his training without distractions. Until he meets his new neighbors and everything changes.

Lin Su Simmons and her teenage son, Charlie, are fixtures at Winnie Banks’ house as Lin Su nurses Winnie through the realities of ALS. A single mother, Lin Su is proud of taking charge and never showing weakness. But she has her hands full coping with a job, debt and Charlie’s health issues. And Charlie is asking questions about his family history—questions Lin Su doesn’t want to answer.

When Charlie enlists Blake’s help to escape the boy’s overprotective mother, Lin Su resents the interference in her life. But Blake is certain he can break through her barriers and be the man she and Charlie need. When faced with a terrible situation, Blake comes to the rescue, and Lin Su realizes he just might be the man of her dreams. Together, they recognize that family is who you choose them to be.

Who or what inspired you to become an author?

I was inspired by my reading while I was a young Air Force wife. I was in my early twenties, a new mother, and was devouring historical novels and romances. Some memorable ones were Katherine by Anya Seton and The Flame and The Flower by Kathleen Woodiwiss. I continue to be inspired by wonderful, entertaining stories for women. My reading isn’t limited to women’s fiction but my writing always seems to head in that direction.

What advice would you give your teenage self?

It is the way of the world that no problems or crises lasts forever or is insurmountable. Take the time to be calm, to think clearly, to treat people with kindness and generosity, work hard, enjoy every day.

What books are currently on your nightstand?

If You Only Knew by Kristan Higgins, Not Quite A Husband by Sherry Thomas, Go Set A Watchman by Harper Lee.

Where is your happy place? Why does it bring you joy?

I have lots of happy places and one is my office, which is too small and I’ve outgrown the shelves and file drawers. But I go to my office every morning by seven and only leave it for the occasional appointment or for short periods of time. I quit work at six every day and then I can be found in the family room with my feet up and a book in my lap – it’s perfect.

What’s rocking your world this month?

I just finished a book that I love so much, it was hard to let it go and begin another book! The title is Sullivan’s Crossing, it’s the first in a new series and will be published in hardcover in April, 2016. The story takes place in Colorado near the Continental Divide Trail involving some of the most entertaining and complex characters I’ve ever taken on and I love them all!

What’s your favorite quote from WILDEST DREAMS?

“Is impossible,” the author said, effecting a Russian accent.

My favorite lines happen between Winnie Banks, who has ALS and is nearly bedridden, and her old friend Mikhail, an old Russian figure skating coach. She constantly reminds him he said he’d be leaving soon and he replies, “What can I say? I am terrible liar. I will stay. Till the end.”

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

One of my favorites lately is from The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel — “Everything will be all right in the end and if it is not yet all right, it is not yet the end.” And I’ve always tried to remember – It doesn’t cost you anything to be nice.

Robyn Carr is the author of the new book Wildest Dreams.

Connect with Robyn
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