In this episode of Sick Sad Lit, I sit down with author Emma Van Straaten to explore the raw, unsettling beauty of her debut novel, This Immaculate Body.

Emma reflects on her journey from aspiring writer to published author, sharing how her own personal history informed the creation of her complex protagonist, Alice. We discuss the nuances of character development, how trauma shapes narrative voice, and why writing unflinching, emotionally charged fiction is both a creative and cathartic act.

This episode also explores Emma’s publishing journey, how she balances writing with parenting, and the unique pressures that come with telling stories grounded in identity and internal conflict. From the daily rituals that keep her grounded to the literary influences that shaped her perspective, Emma offers honest insights into the joys and challenges of writing in today’s literary landscape.

If you're drawn to books that confront what it means to exist in a body — and all the pain, rage, and beauty that comes with that — this conversation will resonate.

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