An aspiring actress in Los Angeles has her heart broken, moves to the Big Apple, becomes an unlikely reality TV star and meets the man of her dreams. No, Skinnydipping isn't Bethenny Frankel's autobiography, but the author and her heroine, Faith Brightstone, have a lot in common — including having to put up with high-maintenance housewives. The bestselling author tells Star about taking her first crack at fiction.

Q: Where did you get the idea to write a novel?

My publisher proposed the idea to me. I was reluctant at first, but then I finally understood it would be a great palate cleanser after my run on reality. The freedom of this process has been liberating.

Q: How did you find time to write?

If you're organized, don't procrastinate and come from a place of yes, you get it done. Take things step by step, day by day.