Exclusive Interview
‘It’s Different This Time’ Author Joss Richard Dishes on Her Debut Romance & Favorite Love Stories
Not every book alters your romance-loving brain chemistry, but Joss Richard’s It’s Different This Time certainly will. The author introduces us to June and Adam, former roommates who have to move back into the New York City brownstone where their friendship (and possibly something more) began. As June and Adam confront their feelings and what tore them apart, they open themselves up to the possibility of a second chance they missed out on years ago.
Swooon asked Richard a collection of our burning questions about everything from the inspiration behind her debut novel (which is out now), the first love stories that made her swoon, and her advice for debut authors. (Also, ICYMI: Richard will be attending Dell Romance’s Cozy Night In event — along with Swooon! — at the Ripped Bodice on October 28. Get your tickets here!)
1. What was the spark that inspired you to write It’s Different This Time?
Joss Richard: It’s Different This Time is a story that has honestly been in my heart for decades. I just never knew that putting that story onto paper was a possibility. At a young age, through movies, TV shows, books, etc., I was always fascinated with the dynamic between roommates. The idea that you could grow to become friends, even best friends, with someone you live with, have them see you at your highest and lowest points, and in your most vulnerable state, is incredibly intimate. I wondered what would happen if you have two roommates who fell in love, but eventually moved out, and then reunited. Would things be different?
It wasn’t until the pandemic when (like most people) I remembered how much I love books. I immersed myself in rom-coms and felt empowered to try and write my own story. Naturally, It’s Different This Time was a concept that was simmering in me for years, so very quickly, June and Adam were born. I wrote it with the intention of only my husband and close friends reading it, and it wasn’t until I got their initial reaction to the story that I knew I wanted to share it with the world.
2. What makes New York City so romantic to you?
Richard: There is an energy coursing through the veins of New York City that is undeniable. It’s not hard to romanticize being in New York on an autumn day, walking around Central Park with a pumpkin-spiced latte in your hands. The leaves around you are beginning to change from orange to red, there’s a crisp chill in the air, and you pull your scarf a little closer while the sun shines bright on your face. It doesn’t hurt that I grew up on Nora Ephron films. Give me love in New York over Paris any day.
3. Is there an aspect of June and Adam’s relationship that resonates with you on a personal level?
Richard: Building a relationship when you’re already friends. Love is beautiful in all forms, but there is something so special about falling in love with your best friend.
4. What was the first love story you fell in love with?
Richard: Oh gosh, do I have to pick just one? I’m sorry, but it’s not possible. Here are five:
1. Maria and Captain Von Trapp, The Sound of Music
2. Ross and Rachel, Friends
3. Clark and Lana, Smallville
4. Jack and Janet, Three’s Company
5. Virginia and Wolf, The 10th Kingdom (This is so niche, and if anyone gets it, PLEASE reach out.)
5. What makes you swoon?
Richard: So. Many. Things. I always say I can start shipping two people in a commercial. It’s not hard for me to swoon or become invested in someone’s love story. But I love a slow burn romance and enemies-to-lovers (but you know he’s already down bad).
6. What’s your best advice for aspiring romance authors?
Richard: I think this applies to any genre, but write the messy first draft. I stand by this. It’s done wonders for me to realize that I can write something that isn’t perfect, and I can always change it later. It helps with writer’s block and imposter syndrome. Just write the messy first draft because I believe you need to write the wrong thing to know what the right thing is.
Romance-specific, if it doesn’t make you swoon, it won’t make anyone else. So make sure you love what you’re writing. Write for you.
