"A Woman In Pink," coming February 2026
Popsugar: What lessons about relationships and trauma do you think readers of "A Woman in Pink" might walk away with?
Megan Schikora: I don't want readers to walk away with a lesson. I want them to walk away feeling seen and heard. So many of us experience a romantic relationship similar to my protagonist's. They invest so much in it and fight so hard for it, but the "happily ever after" they envisioned never materializes. My goal for "A Woman In Pink" is resonance.
PS: What's your favorite scene or story arc from "A Woman in Pink"?
MS: My protagonist's love interest asks her to write a letter on his behalf, which she agrees to do. Throughout the novel, excerpts from the deceptive letter are followed by narrative of what really happened, and I had fun playing with this juxtaposition.
PS: What do you enjoy most about writing literary fiction? What draws you to the genre?
MS: I want people reading my fiction to think, "I know this place. I know this person. I am this person." I want to connect with readers by reflecting aspects of their experiences in my work. I also appreciate the high bar: compelling narratives that take risks, distinctive voices, and commitment to vivid, vigorous language. I want to clear the bar. I love the challenge.
Book blurb: A "contemporary novel inspired by the real life romance between June Carter and Johnny Cash. It is a thrilling story of obsessive love that spans decades, of the role of privilege, and the cost of addiction."
