Book: Below Them The Horizon
Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I’m a writer, editor, English teacher, and vegan foodie from Cincinnati. I have an MFA in creative writing from Fairfield University. My publications have appeared in Lost River Literary Magazine, Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Power of Yes, and Long Island Literary Journal. I also run the blog Thinking with My Mind Full. My debut novel, Below Them the Horizon, was published by Woodhall Press fall 2020.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Below Them The Horizon’ book?
The most significant challenge was helping it find its shape. It went from third person to first person to third person. For a while, the timeline was anachronistic. It took years to smooth it out!
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
There are so many. Marilynne Robinson is a huge inspiration, along with Toni Morrison, Willa Cather, Lief Enger, and most currently Neil Gaiman (though he didn’t influence Below Them the Horizon. The novel was done by the time I find his books).
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I’m from the U.S., and I love so much of it. Probably my favorite place is Mackinac Island, Michigan. It’s beautiful and truly a place out of time.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes! Lots of reading (craft books, fiction similar to what you want to writing, and anything you love) and lots of writing. Write essays, short stories, and other novels for practice. Keep notes of characters, setting, and timelines within the story. Take pictures of the places you base your setting on.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Below Them The Horizon’ book?
Almost 7 years! I started it in 2012 when I began working on my MFA from Fairfield University.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?
Anywhere books are sold! Especially Amazon and BarnesandNoble.com.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?
The title is actually a line from the book, at the end of one of my favorite scenes between Lucy and Audra. It’s a pivotal moment for Lucy.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I try to be aware of any stereotypes or stale writing techniques that may creep in. If it seems too expected that a character might go right, I’ll ask myself if it really serves the character (and ultimately my readers) for the character to do that thing. If not, I’ll surprise everyone by making the character go left. What happens next? Even I might be surprised!
Q10. Are there any secrets from the books (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
There aren’t secrets, per se, but I will share this: It has heavy themes, but it won’t leave you in despair!
Book Is Available On Amazon
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