Book interview - Intrepid Dudettes of the Inca Empire by Helen Pugh

Please tell us a little about the book

Intrepid Dudettes of the Inca Empire introduces readers to a series of Inca goddesses before narrating the experiences of Inca women, starting with the Cusco Realm in the 1200s and ending with the collapse of the Neo Inca State in the late 1500s. Full of compassion, victories, tragedies, surprises, intrigue and a touch of humour, Intrepid Dudettes is a unique journey into a pre-Columbian world.

Where did the inspiration come from for your book?

It was when I found out about Quispe Sisa, the emperor Atahualpa’s sister, who was forced into a relationship with the leading conquistador, Francisco Pizarro. Although the men of the story were household names, she has mainly been forgotten about. I soon discovered many more like Quispe Sisa whose stories deserved to be heard.

How did you find the experience of writing this book?

I think any writer finds the process to have its highs and lows. Highs for me were research and inspiration breakthroughs as well as holding the paperback copy in my hands for the first time. Lows were hitting a wall with research and the last stages of the meticulous editing process.

Did you draw any inspiration from any real life people with any of your characters?

Yes. Every single person mentioned is either a historical figure or a legendary one.

If you could say anything to readers of this  book then what would it be?

I’d say that these women lived fascinating lives that will surprise and inspire you. Life is never clear cut; the women were not merely victims of their situations nor were they completely in control of things. Rather, they navigated choppy waters to try and make the best of things and look out for themselves.

Are there plans for more from these characters, or is it a stand alone piece?

The goddesses also appear in my Spanish book Pachamama, diosa extraordinaria. There is a children’s book as well called Inca-tastic Tales (with a Spanish version entitled Cuentos incatásticos).

Where can we purchase your book?

Just head to https://books2read.com/idie

Please tell us where readers can connect with you and find out about any new book releases too.

All links to my books and social media accounts can be found at: https://linktr.ee/intrepiddudettes where there are some freebies and free chapters to download too.