This interview originally appeared in the September/October 2022 Horn Book Magazine as part of the Publishers’ Previews: Fall 2022, an advertising supplement that allows participating publishers a chance to each highlight a book from its current list. They choose the books; we ask the questions.

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Drizzle, Dreams, and Lovestruck Things follows the four Singh sisters through a year of baked goods and romance, and it ends with a wedding.

1. What does a person’s choice between samosas and pakoras tell you about them?

Very important question! Samosas are larger and traditionally stuffed with potatoes, and one might fill you up. A batch of pakoras can be made with a variety of vegetables, and you could easily load your plate up with several of the fritters. Therefore, those who enjoy samosas are not afraid of commitment, while those who prefer pakoras like to keep their options open.

2. In which season are you happiest? (You have to pick one.)

I live for summer, sun-drenched days with sand between your toes and your hair a mess with salty sea water. Exploring pebble beaches and letting time slow down and not worrying about when you might get back, if ever. It’s especially glorious in the Pacific Northwest, where the Singh sisters reside.

3. How does the Singh family constellation compare to your own?

Like the Singh sisters, I am one of four siblings, though I have two sisters and a brother. My mom and dad are celebrating their forty-seventh anniversary this year. I grew up with a lot of chaos and laughter. We never had enough space; the laundry was always running; we had too many books; and we quoted the same favorite movies. We had our own mythos and that is what I wanted to create with the Singh family.

4. Your favorite fictional sisters in a book for young people?

Little Women, of course, and the non-biological sisters of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. (We also had a pair of jeans that looked amazing on all of us — even though my younger sister is much taller than me. Magic!) As the middle sister, I related to Lara Jean in To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, particularly during the period when eldest sis is off to college and, suddenly, you’re supposed to be setting a good example for your cheeky younger sis — who may or may not have a better social life than you.

5. Can we talk about just how sexy Emma is?

Of course! While Mr. Darcy’s brooding and aloof nature may compel many, Mr. Knightley understands all of Emma’s flaws — and loves her anyway. Now, that is sexy.

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Photo: Jamilah Newcomer.