Ruta Sepetys Shares Favorite Aspects of Florida Culture
Acclaimed author Ruta Sepetys, who divides her time between Tennessee and Florida, shared her favorite aspects of Florida culture with the Tampa Bay Times. Among her favorites are the historic Tarpon Lodge in Pineland, the sunsets over Charlotte Harbor, and…
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 4, 2026 —
Acclaimed author Ruta Sepetys, known for her historical fiction, has shared her particular fondness for elements of Florida culture with the Tampa Bay Times. Sepetys, who splits her time between Tennessee and Florida, highlighted several aspects of the Sunshine State that she cherishes.
Among her favored locations is the historic Tarpon Lodge, situated in Pineland. This lodge is noted for its historical significance and its setting within the Florida landscape.
Sepetys also expressed appreciation for the natural beauty of the sunsets over Charlotte Harbor. The harbor is a prominent feature of the Southwest Florida coastline, known for its scenic vistas.
Furthermore, the author mentioned the presence of manatees as a personal highlight. She shared that these gentle marine mammals frequently visit the canal adjacent to her Florida home, offering her a direct connection to local wildlife.
Story summarized from the original created by By Christopher Spata, Times staff on www.tampabay.com, see more information here.
