“Unhappy Families Are My Joy” featuring Katy Hays

In this episode of Imposter Hour, hosts Liz Keenan and Greg Wands sit down with New York Times bestselling author Katy Hays to explore imposter syndrome, the creative process, and the nuances of character development—particularly in relation to wealth, privilege, and social dynamics.

Hays shares insights into her writing journey, the power of setting and atmosphere, and the influence of authors like Patricia Highsmith. She opens up about her fascination with unhappy families, the tension embedded in their dynamics, and how environment shapes storytelling. The conversation also delves into the challenges of pacing, crafting compelling endings, and the pressure to deliver twists in a genre that thrives on surprises.

Hays reflects on navigating success after a breakout debut and the expectations that come with it, emphasizing the importance of writing for oneself and finding joy in the creative process. Whether you're a writer, a reader, or just love a good literary deep dive, this episode offers an engaging look at the art of storytelling and the mindset behind it.