Thanks to Renee Rosen, author of Dollface, for answering questions on CLP today!
Why was Dollface a book you wanted to write?
I love the Roaring Twenties and am thrilled that there’s a renewed interest in this decade. It’s one of my favorite time periods and I just knew there was a story waiting to come out of this era.
What research did you have to do for the book to make sure it had that authentic feel of the 1920’s?
I spent about 10 years doing research for Dollface. I read through old newspapers and magazine from the ‘20s and from there, I dug down a bit deeper. Being from Chicago, I had the luxury of visiting many of the historical sites that I used in the book including, The Green Mill, the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, the bullet holes still visible in the cornerstone of Holy Name Cathedral and other landmarks. Also, since part of the story takes place at the Union Stock Yards, I toured the last remaining slaughterhouse. I also met with anyone and everyone I could find who had a connection to Capone or members of the North Side Gang and was surprised by how many people still observed “omerta”. Once I started asking questions, they came down with a case of “Chicago Amnesia” and refused to talk to me. I was however fortunate enough to have lunch with Al Capone’s great niece. As you can see, I could go on and on about the research!
Why did you choose the 1920’s? Do you think you will visit them again in future novels?
I think a story like Dollface could have only taken place in the 20s and in Chicago. The premise of Vera, the main character, being torn between two men who belonged to rival gangs seemed organic to the times. I don’t think that dynamic would have worked if I’d set the story in another era.
Obviously I love the 20s and would love to do another novel set in that time period though nothing concrete is planned for that yet. My next novel, What The Lady Wants, takes place a little earlier, late 1800s to early 1900s.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Getting started and then letting go. In the beginning, in those first few chapters, you’re laying the cornerstone for your novel and for me that’s the trickiest writing. You need to control every word, every sentence to make sure you’ve laid the foundation for the rest of the story to unfold. You can’t reveal too much or too little. And then, once you get your story down and you’ve done your revising, there comes a time when you have to let it go and for me that’s oh so difficult. I know I’ll miss my characters. I’ll know that there are still scenes and sentences that I could have done better. But there’s comes a point where you have to let your baby go and make its way in the world.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
I think social media is an incredible tool for authors who want to interact with their readers and bring them into their process. One thing I will say is that social media is just that—‘social’. I don’t think Twitter and Facebook are effective or even appropriate avenues to sell books. Sharing news is one thing, but buy my book is another. I worry that too many authors go in for the hard sell on social media and end up turning readers off.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Aside from the usual, read, write and repeat, I think it’s important to seek out and be open to critiques. I’m a firm believer that no one can write a book all by themselves. We need perspective, we need to hear the truth about our early drafts and be willing to roll up our sleeves and do the hard work even after we’re convinced that a manuscript is done and ready to go out the door. I think editing and revising make all the difference in the world, so don’t resist it. Embrace it!
