Love, Laughter, and Wine

The Expat Experience, Cultural Challenges, and Crafting Compelling Fiction in Paris

Whitney Cubbison’s debut novel captures the essence of expat life in Paris with humor, heart, and a delightful dose of wine.

Whitney Cubbison‘s debut novel, Will There Be Wine? takes readers on a humorous yet poignant exploration of expat dating in the romantic city of Paris. Drawing from her own experiences as an American living abroad, Cubbison crafts a story that is both relatable and entertaining, capturing the trials and triumphs of navigating love in a foreign land.

In this insightful interview with Reader’s House magazine, Cubbison shares the inspiration behind her novel and the personal experiences that influenced its creation. From her own dating misadventures to the cultural nuances of French romance, Cubbison candidly discusses the real-life events that inspired the fictional journey of her protagonist, Austen Keller.

Austen’s escapades, chronicled through her blog, DatingDisasters.Paris, offer a glimpse into the challenges of dating across cultures. From encounters with mansplainers to gym shorts aficionados, Cubbison brings to life a cast of memorable characters, each reflecting a facet of the expat dating scene in Paris.

But amidst the humor and hijinks, Cubbison also delves into deeper themes of self-discovery and resilience. Through Austen’s journey, readers are reminded of the importance of staying true to oneself and the value of female friendship in navigating life’s ups and downs.

For Cubbison, striking a balance between humor and serious themes was a challenge, but one that ultimately enriched the narrative. From slapstick comedy to moments of introspection, Will There Be Wine? offers a nuanced portrayal of love, laughter, and the pursuit of happiness.

As readers immerse themselves in Austen’s adventures, Cubbison hopes they will come away with a newfound appreciation for authenticity in relationships. Whether romantic or platonic, the message is clear: be true to yourself, and the right people will find their way into your life.

In the pages of Will There Be Wine? and through this engaging interview, Whitney Cubbison invites readers to raise a glass to love, laughter, and the timeless pursuit of happiness in the city of lights.