The internationally acclaimed bestseller, who’s new novel, The Stolen Child, is published this month, lives in Co. Wexford with her husband, children and rescue dog, George Bailey.
What are you reading at the moment?
Burn After Reading by Catherine Ryan Howard, who is one of my favourite writers in this genre. Her thrillers always surprise me. And this one is no exception; clever and original.
How long did it take to write your new book, The Stolen Child? And where did you write it?
It takes me six months to write a first draft and then six months to complete edits. I’m lucky to have a dedicated writing room at home, which is a hugely creative space. But I spend a week at the magical Tyrone Guthrie retreat once a year. It’s a chance to switch off from the juggle-struggle between words and life as a working mother.
Is there a memory that sticks out from this writing process?
My children, Amelia and Nate, are both hugely supportive of my writing and ask me every day about my work. On one occasion, I shared with Nate that I was struggling with a motivation for a character. He thought about it for a beat, then replied, ‘What if …?’ And in that what-if suggestion, he gave me an idea for one of the big twists.
Do you ramp up your own book-reading rate while writing your own?
I always have several books on the go, but I stop reading when I’m deep into the final stages of a new manuscript. I can’t fully immerse myself into anyone else’s world when I’m in my own creation.
What’s the first book you remember loving?
On my first day of school, my teacher, Mrs Joyce, let me choose a story-time book, as I was crying so much! I picked Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl. We had one chapter a day, and I couldn’t wait to get to school every day for the next instalment – an early lesson in the power of words.
Could you say a book changed your life?
I’m sure many authors say this, so I apologise for not bucking the trend. It has to be my debut, Beyond Grace’s Rainbow. I was a rookie with no clue, and over the years, my writing style has evolved so much. But somehow, that emotional romantic weepie got me my first book deal and changed my life, helping me reach thousands of readers and walk into a new chapter of my life. (Deliberate pun!)
Is there a book that got you through a hard time?
There isn’t just one; there are hundreds. I know that many find answers on a therapist’s couch. My answers come on a couch, too, but curled up in a book, where wisdom, escapism, and solace are found between the pages. I call it reading therapy.
What about a book you wish you’d written?
My kids used to say they wished I’d written the Harry Potter series. I mean, I wouldn’t say no to that success, but in truth, I’ve never really wished I’d written anyone else’s book. I will continue chasing my dreams, thinking about the possibilities and wishes of books I’ve not yet written.
What book should be on every shelf?
The Stolen Child by Carmel Harrington. I hear it’s excellent!
A book you listened to on Audible and loved?
Heartburn, by Norah Ephron, narrated by Meryl Streep. I am literally on my knees, bowing to those two incredible women. It’s that good.
The Stolen Child by Carmel Harrington is published in trade paperback by Headline (27th Feb), and is available for pre-order now.