Sandhya Menon is the bestelling author of the When Dimple Met Rishi universe and Rosetta Academy series among other stand-alone rom-com books. Here, she generously took time out of her busy schedule to answer some questions about Desi representation, self publishing vs traditional and more.

1. You majored in psych in university-Does that inform how you write your characters and their dynamics?

Oh, most definitely! Studying human psychology gave me a depth of understanding into why we behave the way we do the way few other areas of study could have. 

2. Since you started with self-publishing, was that process different from working with a mainstream publisher?

Completely different! Of course, I was self-publishing more than a decade ago, so I’m sure things are very different now. But I found that working with an agent and a Big 5 publisher gave me the kind of support, distribution, and marketing I simply couldn’t afford myself. 

3. A recurring theme explored in your YAs is mother-daughter relationships. What draws you to this family dynamic in particular?

I have a daughter myself, and we’re very close. She often relays stories to me about her friends and their mothers and different relationship dynamics she’s exposed to. In my opinion, mother-daughter dynamics can be some of the most complicated, rich, and nuanced of any human relationships. And especially when the daughter is going through adolescence! I just find that so fascinating to write about. 

4. Did you feel pressure about representing Desi culture in your books or do you feel like it’s a necessary push to showing more diversity in the book industry?

I felt very honored to represent Desi culture, to be honest. It’s so great that this generation of readers will have so much representation from all walks of life compared to past generations! 

5. How did you feel when “When Dimple Met Rishi” got a television adaption in Hindi (Mismatched)? What did you think of the results?

It was fascinating to see what I like to think of as an AU (alternate universe) When Dimple Met Rishi! 

6. What do you hope readers connect with in your characters?

I hope they’re able to see a little bit of themselves in at least one character. 

7. Any news or details of your upcoming works you’d like to share?

The third and final Rosetta book, Of Dreams and Destiny, which is a loose Sleeping Beauty retelling and follows DE, will be out September 19th, 2023! And after that, well, let’s just say I’ve got a few pots simmering! 😉 

Thanks for having me!

If you want to learn more about Sandhya Menon and her books, follow her on social media and her website: https://www.sandhyamenon.com/