Author Name: Camille Pagán

Book Title: Good for You

Book Genre: Women’s Fiction

Release Date: March 1, 2023

Publisher: Lake Union Publishing

Welcome, Camille! How would you describe Good for You? 

Good for You is the story of a grieving editor who has a career-jeopardizing meltdown and decamps to the lake house she inherited from her brother—only to discover that his slacker best friend is living there. It’s a story about healing with a touch of humor (and a little bit of heat, too!).

What’s your favorite part about writing/being an author?

I will never forget the first time a reader emailed me and said, “Thank you for writing this book­—it’s exactly what I needed to read right now.” That sentiment remains the single best part of this career. As writers, we do write for ourselves—at least initially during the drafting stage. But the whole reason to share our work with the world is to create an emotional experience for readers. When a reader shares that I’ve accomplished that with my story, it means the world to me. That’s why I always let an author know if I loved their book. 

If you were speaking to someone who hasn’t read your writing before, why should they want to read Good for You?

Like all my novels, this is a story that tackles some heavy subjects (such as loss and trauma) with a relatively light touch; the protagonist, Aly, has been through a lot and has a fairly wry way of looking at situations. At the same time, she’s had her head in the sand about her brother’s death for a long time, so that lack of awareness lends itself to some comedic moments (and a few teary ones, too). I think of life as funny and kind of sad—and that combination makes it pretty wonderful, actually. If that speaks to you, my latest may as well.

Any words of wisdom you give your pre-published writer self (or to a new writer)?

In addition to being an author and journalist, I’m a master certified coach; I help aspiring to established authors create even better careers. So you won’t be surprised to hear that I have lots of thoughts on this topic! For now, I’ll say: put your horse blinders on and your headphones in and ignore everyone who says you can’t do it. Of course you can, and while talent helps, it’s not the deciding factor in who gets published and who doesn’t. What makes the most difference is focus and grit. This business can be disappointing at times, so you have to really want it—and be willing to keep going (and going and going).

Where can readers find you (website, blog, social media, etc.)? Feel free to include any upcoming, live/online events, workshops, too!

I’m most active on Instagram: Instagram.com/camillepagan

You can learn more about my work at CamillePagan.com, and get loads of writing and career advice at evenbetter.co/howto.

Thank you, Camille! Good for You is out March 1!

Good for You