Julia McKay is the pen name of Marissa Stapley, a former magazine editor and the New York Times bestselling author of the Reese’s Book Club Pick Lucky, as well as many other international bestsellers, including The Lightning Bottles. She has co-authored several holiday rom coms, including bestseller The Holiday Swap, writing as Maggie Knox. Many of her novels have been optioned for television. She lives in Toronto with her family.
Want to keep up on all things Julia? Check out her website or follow her on Instagram or Facebook.
What’s the strangest thing you searched for on the internet for your novel?
I became obsessed about sandwiches, and specifically hoagies, while researching this novel. Which doesn’t sound terribly romantic, but just trust me on this one! I researched many different flavour combinations, and always felt hungry while I was writing. (Best sandwiches in Toronto? Grandma Loves You.)
What book (or author) made you fall in love with the romance genre?
Marian Keyes was the gateway for me. In my twenties, I loved the way her novels were so funny, but also so poignant and romantic. In more recent years, I’ve fallen hard for Mhairi McFarlane and Emily Henry. I love what Emily Henry has to say about the importance and heft of romance novels. They aren’t just frivolous: the deal with tough topics, and offer hope, something we all need in this complicated world. And I’m a huge fan of Carley Fortune. Who isn’t??
What is your favourite trope?
I have many favourite tropes, but if I had to choose one it would probably be Second Chance. With this trope, you get the back story of who they were before juxtaposed against who they are now, as they meet again. I’m also a sucker for a character returning to her small home town or somewhere she once called home, and second chance romances often offer this.
It’s the morning after, and a lover is making your main character the perfect breakfast in bed. What is it?
Good coffee, fresh fruit and decadent French pastries.
What book are you reading currently?
How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang. I love the way it’s set in the world of Hollywood screenwriting—and how sweet yet spicy it is!
