Charlotte B. Plumb Discusses Themes of Morality in Debut Novel 'Reap & Sow'

Charlotte B. Plumb's debut novel, "Reap & Sow," explores the complexities of human decisions and the moral dilemmas that arise from them. Scheduled for release on October 6, the gothic tale centers around Eda Shaw, a young woman managing her family’s shop, which hides a dark secret: the opportunity to trade one’s soul for a life of dreams.

Eda's father previously made this sacrifice, placing her at a critical crossroads as she faces her own daunting choice. Through a cast of quirky characters and an engaging demon counterpart, Eda embarks on a journey to protect her family's legacy and uncover truths from their past.

Plumb emphasizes the importance of family dynamics in shaping Eda’s character and decisions. According to her, Eda's family drives the narrative, illustrating the connection between personal relationships and individual identity.

In discussing secondary characters like Tripp and Robin, Plumb notes her efforts to ensure they feel realistic and fully fleshed out. She believes side characters can significantly enhance the story, providing depth to the main character’s perspective.

The novel features a witty banter between Eda and Kit, which Plumb describes as building romantic tension before any physical intimacy occurs. The humor serves as a shield for the characters, revealing deeper feelings and allowing for a safe exchange that deepens their emotional bond.

Plumb cites the influence of classic literature and modern shows like "Peaky Blinders" in shaping the novel’s gothic atmosphere. This inspiration led her to blend elements of fantasy with historical references, particularly from Tudor and Elizabethan England.

Maintaining a British voice was essential for Plumb, who feels it gives her story an authentic touch. Concerns about whether an American audience would connect with this perspective were alleviated by her agents, who assured her of its appeal.

The novel's conclusion leaves readers on a cliffhanger, teasing a sequel that Plumb has just completed. This follow-up will further explore the relationship between Eda and Kit, delving into the implications of their distinct worlds.

Plumb shares her sense of surrealism at being part of Berkley XO, a new imprint from Penguin Random House. After a promising experience with queries and submissions, she feels fortunate to be on the brink of her publishing journey.

In terms of reader takeaways, Plumb hopes her book will provide escapism through fantasy while provoking thought about humanity and morality. Ultimately, she aims to evoke a sense of hope, highlighting the nuances of what makes us human in a challenging world.