Laura Lippman and Megan Abbott Discuss Their Fascination with Documentaries and Money (Exclusive)
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In a revealing conversation with PEOPLE, two renowned mystery authors delve into topics such as finance and the extent to which their characters are drawn from real life experiences.
Megan Abbott and Laura Lippman are no strangers to seeing their literary works adapted for the screen. Abbott, known for her involvement in projects like the TV series ‘Dare Me’ and the upcoming ‘El Dorado Drive,’ is set to collaborate with Lippman on bringing the latter’s Tess Monaghan detective series to television.
Meanwhile, Lippman, acclaimed for her novel ‘Lady of the Lake’ which was transformed into an Apple TV+ hit, has recently released her latest book, ‘Murder Takes a Vacation,’ on June 17. The duo, celebrated for their contributions to the mystery genre, share insights and anecdotes in an exclusive chat with PEOPLE.
One significant aspect that emerged from their dialogue was the theme of reinvention and the exploration of financial dynamics in their latest literary works. Both authors touch upon the idea of women navigating economic challenges and transformations, with money serving as a core element in their storytelling.
Abbott reflects on the resurgence of women’s engagement in multi-level marketing (MLM) and pyramid schemes, noting the multifaceted role money plays in the lives of her characters. Drawing from her own upbringing in a town impacted by economic upheaval, Abbott weaves a narrative that delves into themes of security, independence, and power through the lens of female protagonists.
On the other hand, Lippman shares her interest in portraying a woman on the brink of significant change, intertwined with financial complexities that mirror her own experiences. Through her protagonist Muriel Blossom, Lippman crafts a tale that delves into the nuances of wealth and opportunity, offering a peek into the interplay between personal narratives and monetary matters.
As the conversation unfolds, Abbott and Lippman touch upon the cinematic influences that shape their storytelling. Abbott draws inspiration from true crime docuseries and classic films, infusing her narratives with elements of intrigue and social commentary. Lippman, on the other hand, revisits iconic movie tropes, reimagining traditional narratives through a contemporary lens that challenges gender norms.
Their shared love for movies and documentaries infuses their writing with a visual quality, inviting readers to explore familiar themes through a fresh perspective. This blend of narrative craftsmanship and cinematic flair underscores the dynamic storytelling of Abbott and Lippman, elevating their works to engage and resonate with diverse audiences.
Looking ahead, the authors tease future projects that promise to push boundaries and expand their creative horizons. From Abbott’s foray into television adaptations to Lippman’s collaborative ventures in scriptwriting, both authors embolden each other to embrace new challenges and uncharted territories in their literary careers.
In a genre often shrouded in mystery and intrigue, Megan Abbott and Laura Lippman offer a glimpse into the intricate web of storytelling, finance, and personal narratives that define their craft. As they continue to captivate readers with their compelling narratives and rich character portrayals, their unique voices resonate as a testament to the enduring allure of mystery fiction.