Interview with Kirsten Pursell, Author of Long Enough to Love You

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Long Enough to Love You?

Life! I am an empty nester and struggled with my place in life and in my marriage. Finding my own diaries (then publishing my memoir based off them) gave me the idea for Tripp. Soul searching complicated by a first love felt like the perfect storm for a fictional book about self-discovery.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Long Enough to Love You, what would they be?

I created a whole playlist for this book! For the parts between Jenn and Tripp, I think the one that really fits is “Kiss Me” by Dermot Kennedy.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I love to read historical fiction, but I don’t think I could write it. I love writing women’s fiction and romance.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Memory Keeper of Kyiv by Erin Litteken and Getting Lost by Annie Ernaux (a mentor compared me to her!)

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

This was such an emotional book to write, but I think the scenes between Jenn and Tripp because they were simultaneously beautiful and heartbreaking.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I am constantly sending myself emails when I get a thought about something I want to write or the words finally come to me on how to say something. Those moments don’t usually happen in front of the computer!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Yes! “Do things things that you’re scared to do…Take your life and make it the best story in the world.”

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

It takes courage to be true to yourself, and that it’s never too late for second chances.