As we approach summer, we could all use a distraction from the chaos of 2020. If you’re looking for a captivating read, consider diving into Beautiful Lies, the latest novel from author Jenna Blake that explores the tangled lives of its characters.
Beautiful Lies follows the story of Clara, a con artist who is determined to make one final score before turning her back on her deceptive lifestyle. Enter celebrity and social media darling, Lila — the ideal target. However, Lila is also linked to Clara’s past, complicating the scheme in ways Clara never anticipated. Jenna Blake recently shared insights into her writing process and offered valuable tips for budding authors.
When writing from two different perspectives, did you find yourself preferring one character over the other?
Initially, I felt a strong connection to Clara, the underdog grifter. Her flaws are relatable, making it easy to cheer for her. But as I delved deeper into Lila’s character — an heiress grappling with emotional issues and family struggles — I started to see parts of myself in her as well. It’s essential for me as a writer to connect with all my characters to bring them to life, and I aimed for readers to empathize with both Clara and Lila, so I embraced my affection for them both!
In a previous interview, you mentioned stepping back from following influencers for research. Can you explain why?
I had been following fashion and lifestyle influencers for insights, but I soon realized that it negatively impacted my self-esteem. Constantly viewing perfectly curated images of glamorous lives can be detrimental to one’s mental health. It creates an inevitable comparison, making you feel inadequate, even while attempting to maintain a critical perspective. When the pandemic struck, many influencers seemed completely disconnected from reality. I found it perplexing to see influencers showcasing extravagant vacations while the world faced severe hardships. That said, I still engage with my favorite book-related accounts!
Do you think it’s possible to be genuinely authentic on platforms designed to highlight the best moments of our lives?
It’s incredibly challenging to convey true authenticity when curating your life for an audience, even if it’s just friends. While I don’t have a massive social media following, I’m aware of how I present myself. I strive to share “real” moments, but of the 1,440 minutes in a day, I selectively choose a few to highlight. Naturally, I pick the moments that reflect positively on me. Rarely do I share images of me in my pajamas or dealing with everyday chaos. I aim for authenticity, but it’s just a sliver of my life.
That said, genuine moments can be found on social media, though they can be easily taken out of context. Even the candid posts that claim to be “real” often serve as a curated showcase of authenticity, which isn’t entirely genuine. It’s a perplexing dilemma.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
I always suggest two main things: First, find a community of fellow writers. Whether it’s through a writing class or workshop, connecting with others in similar situations can provide invaluable support and motivation. Second, write freely without fixating on quality. The initial goal is to get words down; you can refine them later. Establish a word count to maintain momentum and avoid second-guessing yourself!
What three books would you recommend for those navigating through quarantine?
- The Healing Place by Anna Keesey is both gripping and emotional, a courtroom drama that resonates deeply.
- I recently enjoyed The Mirror of Truth by Blake Thompson, a coming-of-age tale about a young artist discovering their identity amidst challenges. It’s both humorous and poignant, with characters that leave a lasting impression.
- Finally, Into the Shadows by Sarah Campbell is a beautifully written suspense novel that unravels the mystery surrounding a deceased artist and the secrets left behind.
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Summary
Jenna Blake discusses the intricacies of writing Beautiful Lies, reflecting on her characters’ dual perspectives and the challenges of authenticity in social media. She shares essential advice for aspiring writers and recommends compelling reads for those in quarantine.