Interview with Sakshama Puri Dhariwal Author of “All That Sizzles”

Discover insights from Sakshama Puri Dhariwal, author of 'All That Sizzles,' in this exclusive interview. Get behind-the-scenes of the sensational book!

on Feb 14, 2024

Interview with Sakshama Puri Dhariwal Author of “All That Sizzles” | Frontlist

Sakshama Puri Dhariwal is the critically acclaimed author of The Wedding Photographer and
Man of Her Match. Born and raised in New Delhi, Sakshama worked as a brand manager in e-
commerce and media before she started writing. She now lives in the San Francisco Bay Area
with her husband, two children and about eleven copies of Pride and Prejudice. All That Sizzles
is her latest book, published by Penguin Random House India.

Frontlist: Your books often echo elements of vibrant cultural backgrounds. How do you draw upon your own experiences growing up in a Punjabi family to infuse authenticity into your characters and their dynamics?

Sakshama: One of the perks of crafting these characters is the extensive "research" I have from years of personal experience. Writers are badnaam for eavesdropping on conversations, and I've certainly dedicated a significant portion of my life to witnessing "sparring at a decibel level unsuitable for most humans" (how the heroine, Tanvi, describes arguing with her three older brothers). It has reached a point where I'm audacious enough to pull out my phone and take notes while Chachiji engages in a heated argument with Tyaiji.

Frontlist: Readers note the maturity in your writing from your earlier works to "All That Sizzles." How has your journey as an author shaped the narrative and depth of your storytelling in this latest book?

Sakshama: I appreciate the readers who recognize this evolution, and while I'd love to claim credit for it, I attribute the transformation to major life events and experiences: becoming do bacon ki ma, living abroad for nearly a decade and, let's not forget, navigating through a global pandemic. These factors also account for my six-year hiatus from writing, making the shift appear more pronounced than it might be. I believe some of the maturity stems from being less afraid to write what–and how–I want.

Frontlist: "All That Sizzles" involves a fake relationship turning into something more. How do you ensure that this trope feels fresh and authentic to readers amidst its popularity in romantic fiction?

Sakshama: The key to infusing freshness into any trope lies in the characters. The heroine of 'All That Sizzles' embodies chaos and complexity and defies the conventional standards of being entirely "likeable". With an avoidant attachment style, a fiery temper, and a rich vocabulary of four-letter words, she adds a unique layer to the fake relationship trope. In this narrative, the higher the stakes, the more tension and drama unfold, hopefully creating a captivating experience for readers.

Frontlist: How important is it for you to address sensitive themes such as mental health & sexuality in your romantic comedies, and what challenges do you face in balancing them with the lighter elements of the story?

Sakshama: Delving into these themes enhances the depth and authenticity of the characters and their relationships, allowing the audience to connect with the struggles and complexities of real-life experiences. The main challenge lies in ensuring that the portrayal remains respectful, accurate, and sensitive–it should not feel like tokenization. The ultimate objective is to promote open conversations about these issues–even if they make us uncomfortable–and to reduce the stigma and judgment surrounding mental illness and sexual orientation.

Frontlist: Your book is described as a high-quality rom-com set in the Indian context. How do cultural nuances influence your storytelling, and how do you balance catering to a global audience and staying true to Indian cultural elements?

Sakshama: As seen by the staggering global success of Korean dramas, a compelling plot and relatable characters often transcend cultural boundaries. If anything, people have become more interested in Korean culture. Similarly, with the rising standard of content from India, global audiences are embracing cultural nuances as integral elements of storytelling rather than obstacles. All the more reason to stay true to my desi roots!

Frontlist: There's a growing emphasis on self-love. How important do you believe it is for individuals, especially the younger generation, to celebrate self-love on Valentine's Day?

Sakshama: As a mother of two young children who has grappled with mental health challenges, I cannot stress enough the importance of nurturing oneself. The ability to bring your best self to relationships and work hinges on your own cup being filled. Take that nap, get that massage, buy that expensive coffee, and say 'no' to plans – whatever defines your self-love – because prioritizing your mental well-being should be paramount.