Christina Dotson knows sometimes truth is stranger than fiction. I recently spoke with her about her inspired-by-a-true-story release Love You To Death.
Tell me about your latest release.
Love You To Death is the story of two best friends, Kayla and Zorie, who can’t get out of their own way. After a teen prank landed them in prison a decade ago, they continue to struggle to make ends meet with their sad paychecks as hotel housekeepers. To supplement their income, they crash weddings and steal what they can from the gift tables. But when Kayla and Zorie’s latest wedding heist turns deadly, the best friends find themselves on the run, and Kayla begins to question Zorie’s true motives and a friendship she’s not sure she wants to keep.
Why did you decide to write it?
This book was actually inspired by a real-life wedding crasher. She was called the ‘Southeast Wedding Crasher’, and she would show up at the weddings of strangers to steal the gifts. She did this at weddings in Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee. I happened to catch the news story one morning while getting ready for work and thought it was one of the craziest (and funniest) things I’d ever heard. The story kept popping up in my head over the next few months, and so the following year, I decided to write it, with a few tweaks, of course. And a little murder.
What was your most memorable experience writing this book?
How much fun I had! I found myself laughing and surprising myself with every chapter. To be honest, I’d collected so many literary agent rejections for other books over the past few years that I decided to just write the wildest, most insane story I could think of without caring what anyone thought. It felt free and fun, and I sometimes wonder if I’ll ever be able to recreate that joy. Best time of my life, and definitely the best thing I’ve ever written. I’m so proud of it.
Which character in the book would you like to have as a best friend?
Um…neither? But, if I had to choose, I’d say Kayla. Only because Zorie is a little too extra, and I don’t need that in my life. Kayla is fiercely loyal and very protective, and I appreciate that about her. At the same time, her loyalty can be her biggest flaw, because sometimes, you have to let go of the things you love the most to find yourself.
What’s something readers would be surprised to learn about you?
Maybe that I’ve been a social worker for over twenty years. My current job is in palliative care, where I spend my days talking to patients and families about their end-of-life goals, understanding advance directives for medical decisions, and helping loved ones navigate the challenges that come with being a caregiver.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
When I’m not writing, I’m watching reality shows—whether it’s Love Island, Real Housewives, Big Brother, Summer House—if it’s messy, I’m watching.
What’s the most difficult part of being an author?
Giving yourself grace. There’s always a new goal that you set for yourself, and it can feel so heavy at times when you think you’ll never reach it. All around you people are making moves and you feel like you’re standing still. The pressure is…something else. Thank goodness for moms. Mine always settles me when I’m being too hard on myself, and she gives the best hugs.
Who are some of your favorite authors, and what are some of their books you love?
I love Amina Akhtar, Rachel Howzell Hall, and Samantha Downing. And, if I could be basic for a sec, I love Stephen King. #FashionVictim by Amina Akhtar is one of my absolute favorite books. I love of an unhinged character, and this book did not disappoint. They All Fall Down by Rachel Howzell Hall. I loved how she made every character so unique, and it was a lot of fun trying to figure out who would die next. I don’t like it when it’s too easy, and this was definitely not. I discovered Samantha Downing two years ago with My Lovely Wife and became an instant fan. I thought she nailed the husband’s voice, and the story was so twisty and juicy. As for Stephen King, I love all his classics, but Mr. Mercedes is probably my favorite. And maybe Misery.
What’s next for you?
Love You To Death is out on July 22, and I am anxiously counting down the hours! I’m also writing another thriller that centers on an awkward (and maybe unhinged?) waitress who lands a spot on a dating reality show. All roads always lead back to reality TV.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I am so grateful for every single reader. It means EVERYTHING to me for someone to take time out of their day to spend with these characters. I’ve wanted to be a writer since I was ten years old, so thank you so much for taking a chance on me.
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