All my main characters are people I'd love to sit around having coffee with. They are people who will tell you honestly about the things that scare them and worry them and trouble them. Because those moments of connection between women-when they really decide to be honest with each other about their lives-are some of the best things in life.

You are writing the story of your only life every single minute of every day.

In fiction, you can be as true as you want. Real life is a different story.

The human condition is imperfection. And that's how it's supposed to be.

I like to write about people who are real and likeable. I like to write about people who tell their stories in that close and intimate voice we use with best friends. I love the closeness and honesty and vulnerability that come from characters who can talk that way.

Something good was happening. My life was rising from the ashes, and the sight of it left me feeling something like hopeful.

If you feel lucky, then you are.