In this episode we talk with the Carnegie winner and #1 New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction, Ruta Sepetys, about the joy of writing historical fiction, building believable characters, the research process, how she finds objects from history to have by her side as she’s writing and why she writes her first draft like the world’s on fire. Plus, the importance of melody and rhythm in writing, the power of collaboration and dealing with critics.*ABOUT RUTA SEPETYSRuta Sepetys (Rūta Šepetys) is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction published in over sixty countries and forty languages. Sepetys is considered a “crossover” novelist as her books are read by both students and adults worldwide. Winner of the Carnegie Medal, Ruta is renowned for giving voice to underrepresented history and those who experienced it. Her books have won or been shortlisted for over forty book prizes, are included on over thirty state reading lists, and are currently in development for film and television.*QUOTES FROM RUTA:“Tonight you might hear a song that you haven't heard in five years and you can sing every word to that song, every word. And that's because melody and rhythm make things memorable and powerful. Melody and rhythm are often overlooked and writers I want you to read your work aloud, listening for rhythm and flow” RESOURCESConnect with Ruta:Twitter: @RutaSepetysInstagram: @rutasepetysauthorRuta's Website - Ruta’s Website*LINKS FROM THE SHOWBooks by Ruta Sepetys:I Must Betray YouThe Fountains of SilenceSalt to the SeaOut of the EasyBetween Shades of Gray*For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit podcast.londonwriterssalon.comFor free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com*FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALON:Twitter: twitter.com/WritersSalonInstagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalonFacebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalonCREDITSProduction by Victoria Spooner. Artwork by Emma Winterschladen For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.For free writing sessions, join free Writers’ Hours: writershour.com.*FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS’ SALONTwitter: twitter.com/WritersSalonInstagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalonFacebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalonIf you’re enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!

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