Why did you choose to write in your particular field or genre?

As a childfree woman, I feel that literature has neglected our group. Many books featuring childfree characters portray them as isolated loners, evil villains, or individuals who frequently end up changing their minds halfway through. I wanted to depict a modern, childfree woman who represents the group I’m a part of. Childfree women are normal people who rightfully deserve authentic representation in contemporary literature.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer and how does that affect your writing?

I am a part-time writer, and while I have great respect for full-time writers, I am apprehensive that relying solely on writing full-time might stifle my creativity. I derive joy from writing, and I’m concerned that my motivations could shift if I were to pursue it full-time. I believe it’s important for young writers to be aware that full-time writing gigs can be inconsistent, and making a sustainable income in today’s financial climate is exceedingly challenging.

Do you have a special time to write, or how is your day structured to accommodate your writing?

I enjoy writing in the evening and conclude my writing when I feel I’ve fully explored an idea. Nevertheless, if inspiration strikes me during the day, I try to jot it down somewhere, providing me with a starting point for later.

Do you work with an outline or plot sketch, or do you prefer to let a general idea guide your writing?

I prefer working with a general idea when writing, with my foundation centered around the characters. Once you have a three-dimensional character whose thoughts, life, and actions you thoroughly understand, you can then place them within the appropriate plot. If you begin with the plot first, you end up creating characters solely to fit the narrative, potentially sacrificing authenticity. Characters may behave in ways that seem illogical because the plot necessitates it.

Can you share with readers a little bit about your latest book? 

Crossroads revolves around Izzy, a woman in her mid-thirties, who is in a long-term relationship with her husband Luke. Both have consciously chosen to remain childfree until one day when Luke unexpectedly expresses his desire to have a child. The story unfolds as we follow Izzy’s journey, grappling with the profound shift in Luke’s stance while confronting her own beliefs and aspirations for the future. Will she acquiesce to Luke’s wish for children, or will she steadfastly maintain her childfree stance? Furthermore, what does the future hold for Izzy and Luke, now that their true feelings have been revealed?

What is the biggest thing that people THINK they know about your subject that isn’t so?

There is a common misconception that people use “childfree” and “childless” interchangeably. However, childfree is a term used to describe people who have actively chosen not to have any kids; be it biological, adopted, or step. This is not to be confused with the term “childless” as that is often used for people who want kids but are unable to have them for whatever reason as well as people who do not have kids now but want them in the future. 

Who is your favorite character in your book and why?

I would say Laura, Izzy’s work colleague and friend. She’s childfree by choice and proud of it. She has intentionally chosen a childfree lifestyle and takes pride in her decision. Laura possesses a clear sense of her life goals and isn’t ashamed of her choices, although she is also conscious that some people might react negatively, prompting her to keep her views mostly to herself. Personally, I’ve known I didn’t want children since the age of 14-15 and have always been vocal about it, which has exposed me to pushback and concern. As I mature, the inclination is to steer clear of the topic as much as possible to avoid the barrage of questions.

Do you listen to or talk to your characters? 

Yes, I put myself in the shoes of the characters and imagine how I would react. The foundation of my book is character development. I specialize in contemporary fiction that reflects the real world, portraying it as an extension of my own experiences.

Want to learn more about P. Robertson?

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