I recently had the opportunity to be part of the cover reveal for the book Clash of the Couples. You may remember that Clash of the Couples is the follow up to the book I co-authored, The Mother of All Meltdowns. In that cover reveal post, I mentioned that I actually know several of the authors via the blogging world and that four are from the state I reside in, Maine.
Well, I also know one of the authors personally (as in I actually see her in person from time to time!). In fact, Lynn Shattuck and I used to work for the same nonprofit mental health agency. That’s how we met. Ten years ago. Over the years, I also got to know her husband, Scott. So when Crystal Ponti, the managing editor for Clash of the Couples and fellow Mainer, asked if I was interested in doing an author’s question and answer session, I immediately suggested interviewing both Lynn and Scott. Because there are two sides to every lovers’ squabble, right?
Before we get into the questions and answers from Lynn and Scott, I want to share a quick quote from Lynn’s story in the book entitled “A Hypothetical Situation.”
I glanced at his profile, strong and handsome. Our disagreement had started innocently, with my offhand remark. But throughout the course of our conversation, as was my pattern, I’d swallowed the argument whole, convincing myself that this ridiculousness mattered. Seriously, would he think I was still hot if I was obese or limbless? Why, in the name of all that is right and holy, couldn’t I get in his belly? And, dammit, why couldn’t we have mocha-skinned, sapphire-eyed little muffins?
You’ll have to buy the book and read the full story. It’s hilarious.
Now for the interviews!
Lynn’s Q & A:
How did Scott react when you told him you’d be contributing to a book called Clash of the Couples? Were you nervous at all? (Personally I found it a bit intimidating to contribute a story about my worst meltdown as a mother when I was asked to be in The Mother of All Meltdowns.)
I actually told Scott about the call for submissions for ridiculous arguments couples have, and he instantly mentioned the one I ended up writing about, which I’d forgotten about! Since his role in the story was the more rational party, he didn’t mind that I’d written about it and was excited for me. I was nervous that people would think I was racially insensitive, but so far haven’t heard that from anyone.
Was it hard to pick a story to share for the book? Or did you have plenty to choose from? (Tell the truth!)
While Scott and I have had plenty of arguments, I definitely think I captured the most ridiculous one!
Do you have a favorite story in the book? Which one and why?
I really liked Kathryn Leehane’s story about a sandwich. I love her writing, and she definitely captured the silliness that can happen in a relationship.
Do you have any advice to share with couples on how to not clash so much?
As far as advice for other couples on not clashing? I am certainly no expert. I’m working– very slowly– on not reacting when Scott asks something of me that I’m not happy about. Also? Couples therapy is priceless.
What’s next for you? Any other books in the works?
I’ve recently become a blogger for mom.me, and that’s been really fun. I also have a story in an upcoming anthology called Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor.
Scott’s Q & A:
What do you think about Lynn being in a tell-all book about lovers’ squabbles and relationship spats?
I am all for it, particularly since I knew she would keep the cannon pointed at herself based on the stories she was talking about including. She had actually forgotten about getting angry that I “wouldn’t let her in my belly” so I like to think I added to the story a bit.
Men and women tend to see things differently, as illustrated in the book. How accurate is Lynn’s story? Anything you want to add to it? (This is your chance!)
It was quite truthy, although I would expect I am much more hilarious and handsome than I came across.
If you were to contribute to the book, what story would you tell?
Honestly I would have picked the ones she did, and perhaps our first ever fight about changing names upon marriage. That one ended when she asked me why I didn’t change my name instead.
Have you read the book? (Tell the truth!) If so, do you have a favorite story? (And you’re not allowed to say Lynn’s!)
I have not read the whole book I’m ashamed to say, but I did read some of the stories in the advance. OTHER THAN MY DARLING BRIDE’S HILARIOUS AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING STORY (lest I provide fodder for the book’s sequel already) I really enjoyed “I Can’t Believe You Ate My Sandwich.” Hell hath no fury like someone who messes with a hungry individual in our house.
Do you have any advice to share with couples on how to not clash so much?
You mean take my advice since I clearly don’t use it? Consider not just what you’re saying but the tone with which you say it.
Point well taken, Scott.
Well, there you have it. They are clearly a cute couple and even picked the same favorite story. I guess the “vs.” part in the title wasn’t really necessary.
Be sure to buy the book Clash of the Couples to read Lynn’s and all the other fun couples stories. It’s a great read. You can also read Lynn’s blog at The Light Will Find You.
