In our special feature on authors in Hong Kong, we chat with Hong Kong-based writer M. L. Wright, author of White Glove Life, about her background and books, preferred writing routines and the things she likes to do here on a break from the keyboard.
Where are you from and what do you miss about it?
I was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. As much as I enjoy the hustle and bustle of living in the exciting city that is Hong Kong, there’s definitely still a lot that I miss about my home town. Naturally, I miss my family and friends who understand the little Malay slangs that I unconsciously slip into conversations. I also miss the internationally-acclaimed hawker food served humbly in green or orange plastic plates that you have to sanitise with hot pu’erh tea before using. And the way people always have time, no matter how busy they are, to stop and ask about your day. Curiously, I sometimes also long for those momentary torrential rainstorms that occur right before dusk and deliver a welcoming coolness in the air that lingers throughout the night.
How long have you lived here?
My family moved to Hong Kong when I was young – I’ve lived here for more than 30 years. Tell us about your writing career and books. When I came to Hong Kong, I studied at Hong Kong International School, which I have to say is a place that not only encourages reading but more importantly the enjoyment of reading. I remember vividly how excited I would be each time my homeroom teacher passed out that flimsy delicate leaflet that is the Scholastic book catalogue. I’d flip through the pages, hungrily devouring every single book’s blurb, before ordering up a storm.
I loved how books transferred you into another world. At a young age, I would try my hand at creating stories, hopeful that one day I might be able to publish something that gave people as much joy as I have been given through reading. Little did I know (or expect), that years of leisure reading and writing that had nothing to do with being an author would help me hone my skills and lead me to penning two fiction novels, No Reserves and, the most recent, White Glove Life.
Give us an insight into one of your books.
For most of my career, I’ve worked in the jewellery auction industry. Whenever I utter these three words, it quickly evokes a mirage of glamorous, mystical, glitzy imagery. People always ask me what it’s like working in such a world that seems so alluring, unattainable, desirable… and seductive. Every interview I’ve done, I’ve been asked with inquisitive naiveté of some jaw-dropping behind-the-scenes anecdotes. And so, this enigmatic world became the backdrop of my first book No Reserves.
My protagonist lands her dream job at the most prestigious auction house in the world, selling highly sought-after gemstones worth millions to the fabulously wealthy and elite. But underneath the glossy exterior, she has to survive a workplace jungle full of cutthroat sycophantic co-workers and a terrifyingly unscrupulous boss. As she uncovers the corrupt activities in her department, she must choose between career advancement or her integrity.
As a gemmologist by profession, I of course included a bit of jewellery and gemstone expertise in the tale.
To be honest, when I decided to publish the book, I thought I would be happy if only one person bought it. If I could just provide a means of escape from one person’s daily grind, that would make my day. I did not expect that within the first week No Reserves was published, the novel would reach #61 on the Amazon Top 100 Asian American Literature List, the same list as Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan. Subsequently, it was featured on the highly selective marketing platform, BookBub. With popular demand, I wrote the sequel, White Glove Life.
What’s the most enjoyable thing about the writing experience for you? What about the biggest challenge?
Sometimes the book is better than the movie. I believe that’s because your imagination can be infinitely more vibrant and richer than what you can see on screen. What I enjoy the most is creating that imagery through words weaved beautifully together, producing sentences where you want to read over and over again; so that you can savour it and relish it. It’s like poetry, but maybe more tangible. However, it’s a double-edged sword, because it’s challenging to mix and match the “perfect” words together. Frankly speaking, it can take a while, and it does drive me crazy before I’m fully satisfied with the final product.
Do you have a set writing routine?
I do; some might find it strange, but before I start writing I let my mind wander by indulging in some aimless web surfing. I go through websites ranging from CNN to the Daily Mail to Net-A-Porter. Once I’ve satisfied this urge, then I’m able to sit down for hours and write.
What book or author have you enjoyed reading recently?
I read everything and constantly. Travelogues, self-help books, gossip magazines – this past weekend, I actually reread Oprah Winfrey’s What I Know For Sure. I find that every time you pick up this book, there’s some wisdom that wasn’t relevant before that is relevant now.
Favourite book of all time?
This is a hard question! If I had to choose one, it would have to be Dear Mr. Blueberry by Simon James. A simple tale that reminds us to keep on imagining and dreaming.
If you don’t write full-time, what’s your day job?
I’m actually a jewellery consultant. In a nutshell, I find gemstones for my clients and offer collectors jewellery expertise.
What do you like to do in Hong Kong when you’re not writing or working?
I like taking long walks out in nature where I can let my mind roam and daydream. Nothing strenuous, just a long walk.
Got any new writing projects on the boil for 2023 and beyond?
I’ve been asked on numerous occasions when my next book will be published. Robin Sharma, author of The Everyday Hero Manifesto, writes about the importance of recovery through travelling and visiting art galleries. 2023 is my year of refuelling and nourishing my mindset. So, for my fans out there, please be patient with me while I let myself wander and be inspired.
M.L. Wright’s books are available on all major bookselling websites, but she encourages supporting local businesses – “so please buy your copy at Bookazine!”
This article first appeared in the Summer 2023 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
