finding their way in the world. Williams has a BA in English Literature from the University of California at Berkeley, takes creative writing from Stanford Continuing Studies, and actively engages in writing groups and critique circles. Williams’s novel The Second Chance Playlist was a winner of the 2024 Emily Contest. When not writing or reading, Williams can be found enjoying California’s beaches, redwoods, and trails with her husband, three kids, and disobedient dog.
Her new novel is The Truth Is in the Detours.
Recently I asked Williams about what she was reading. Her reply:
These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean. Sarah is the queen of historical romance, but in this book, she takes on a contemporaryVisit Mara Williams's website.story about a dysfunctional billionaire family. After the patriarch’s death, they’re forced to spend a week on the family’s private island and undertake a twisted inheritance game. It’s messy, sharp, and full of all the high-drama and high-stakes I’ve come to expect of a MacLean novel. Her historicals take on issues of class, feminism, and power, and this contemporary one is no different. In this book, she shrewdly, subliminally draws parallels between the historical aristocracy and our current economy of the one percent. Plus, it’s a delicious summer beach read.
Never Been Shipped by Alicia Thompson, which tells the story of a disbanded, one-hit-wonder rock band that reunitesfor a themed cruise, uncovering old resentments and unfinished business. This book is romantic, nostalgic, and filled with tenderness and wit. While it is ultimately a joyful story of redemption and reconciliation, it leans into the emotional journey of the characters. They're kind and trying their best, but also messy and wounded. It's so satisfying to see them finally get it right. I devoured this book in one weekend and was so sad when it was over.
Sandwich by Catherine Newman, which tells the story of a week in the life of a family during their annual trip to Cape Cod. This book is a quiet tribute to family life and honors the particular moment when children are grown—but not yet independent—when life feels both like a wide-opendoor and one that’s been slammed shut. I fell in love with the subtlety of the writing and the rich prose.
Dear Writer by Maggie Smith. I will read anything Maggie Smith writes. I find myself highlighting every line of her poetry, memoirs, and in this case, love letter to creatives. This book breaks apart the components of writing into manageable parts, without losing the magic that holds the work together. It’s filled with gorgeous prose, vulnerable insights, and inspiration to pay attention, play, and remain hopeful in pursuit of faithful storytelling. It’s more than a handbook for writers. It’s solid advice on how to live an authentic life.
Q&A with Mara Williams.
The Page 69 Test: The Truth Is in the Detours.
My Book, The Movie: The Truth Is in the Detours.
--Marshal Zeringue
Posts
