As one of New York’s many Aspiring Socialites climbing Manhattan’s often heartless social ladder, I often wonder if the high life is really all it seems to be.  Erica Negi‘s novel, My Life in Loubies, explores the question those aspiring ask ourselves everyday: Is having everything really worth sacrificing your own identity?   The novel tells the story of Vanessa, a thirty-something New Yorker who seems to have what all Manhattan women dream of, a successful career, a super awesome boyfriend, and of course a closet full of Loubies and other designer treasures.

When she unexpectedly finds herself single, Vanessa ends up with a wealthy man and moves to Palm Beach to marry him.  But, this is no typical Cinderella story.  When this Louboutin Girl finds herself at a crossroads upon discovering the true source of her new suitor’s wealth, she must make a life defining choice.

Thanks to the magic of Twitter, I scored an exclusive interview with Erica.  She’s so fun and insightful:

What was your inspiration for the main character, Vanessa?

I wanted to create a main character that readers could relate with.  At the same time, I yearned to keep Vanessa real–with her flaws and feelings–even though she is completely fictional.  Throughout the novel, we follow Vanessa on her journey to ‘have it all.”

What advice do you have for girls looking to climb Manhattan’s social ladder?

It is so easy to get swept away in trying to keep up, but it’s important to never forget who you are.  It’s these innate values that often help us make the best decisions.  Also, regarding fashion, never sacrifice.  But, pay those credit cards in full every month!!  You will have a much easier climb!

What are your favorite pair of Loubies?

This is such a hard question.  It’s like you’re asking me to pick a favorite child!!  But, if I had to choose, I would pick the Very Prive 120mm.  However, at the moment, as I prance around mommy-hood, I have been wearing the Black Patent Loubie Flats.

I’d love to write a book of my own someday.  What advice do you have on becoming an author?

My one piece of advice is to never give up.  Set aside a piece of your day and devote it to your craft.  One day, you will be surprised at the outcome!

Who is your favorite fashion designer besides Christian Louboutin?

I love so many designers for different products.  But, right now I am loving Rebecca Minkoff.  Her handbags and “sunnies” are so cute and fun!  She’s also a great follow on Twitter.

What are Vanessa’s best & worst qualities?

I think Vanessa’s best quality is that she is a young, successful businesswoman who knows what she wants and isn’t scared to take the plunge.  As for her worst quality, she tends to be a bit materialistic.

What’s in store for you in the future?

I am working on book #2, which has a working title: What Matters Most.  It is not a sequel to My Life in Loubies, but we might see some familiar characters.  I am in the midst of working on that and hope to complete in 2013.

Enter to win a copy of My Life in Loubies for your Amazon Kindle in three easy steps:

1.  Follow @AspireSocialite and @MyLifeInLoubies on Twitter.

2.  Like Aspiring Socialite and Erica Negi on Facebook.

3.  Comment on Erica Negi’s Facebook wall with why you love Loubies.  Say Aspiring Socialite sent you.