New York Times best-selling novelist Melissa de la Cruz is holding a discussion about her latest novel, “Love and War: An Alex and Eliza Story,” on Tuesday, April 24, at Flyleaf Books at 7 p.m.
De la Cruz emailed staff writer Will Shropshire about “Love and War,” her experience with screen adaptations and her advice for aspiring authors.
The Daily Tar Heel: Can you tell me about your latest novel, "Love and War: An Alex and Eliza Story"?
Melissa de la Cruz: It is the sequel to the first book, “Alex and Eliza,” and it’s about the first several years of Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler’s marriage, which includes the events of the Battle of Yorktown and Alex setting up his law practice in New York City.
DTH: Tell me more about the series. Can we expect more sequels?
MC: Yes. I am writing the third book now. The series follows the main structure of the storyline of their life, with a few fictional additions and omissions to keep it in the young adult genre.
DTH: Did any works inspire you while writing this novel?
MC: I’ve always been a fan of 19th century novels, and the first book is a little more like (Jane) Austen's “Pride and Prejudice” and the second book is maybe a little more Anthony Trollope.
DTH: What's it like being a New York Times best-selling author?