Huge congratulations on the release of your new book, "Silver Lady: Travels Along the River Road"! As a fellow book enthusiast and creative professional, I'm thrilled to see your work hitting the shelves.
As a women's fiction, literary fiction, and fantasy novel, "Silver Lady" promises to be a captivating and transformative read. What inspired you to create this unique blend of genres, and how did you develop the complex characters of Cassie and Zona?
Could you tell me more about the world-building in "Silver Lady"? How did you envision the pre-apocalyptic setting, and what role does magic play in the story?
As someone who's worked on various book projects, I'm also curious to know more about your experience with the publishing process. Did you design the cover yourself, or work with a designer? What was your approach to marketing and promoting the book?
Once again, congratulations on your new release! I wish you all the best with "Silver Lady" and look forward to hearing more about your creative journey.
Thanks so much for your kind words. Wow, you asked a few thought-provoking questions! I've always enjoyed reading blended fiction genres, though I especially like magic realism. I guess I envisioned Cassie as my alter ego, but tenacious like my best friend from childhood. I'm less sure about where Zona came from. I taught adult education for years, and she typified a few of the high school dropouts with whom I became pretty well acquainted.
The pre-apocalyptic setting was, as I tried to describe, one in which the major cities were in a state of civil unrest, including riots and general mayhem. However, this wasn't the focus of the narrative, which was strictly based along the Great River (the Mississippi). Although many stores in small towns were shuttered, fairly normal routines were still going on. The further the crew voyaged downstream, the more dreamlike and magical life became. The crew comes across doubles of themselves; they wind up on an island and are suddenly back in time. There is a realization that there is a mystical quality to the river that preserves artwork--from written words in books to paintings.
My book was published by Black Rose Writing--a small indie publisher. The cover was made by the company's graphic designer. (Isn't it awesome?) I'm doing what I can online to promote it one various platforms. Also, Black Rose has set up a giveaway on Goodreads and a new release deal on BookBub. I'm looking into doing as many interviews as possible.
Susan, it's an absolute delight to dive deeper into your creative world! Your responses have not only piqued my interest but have also given me a glimpse into the richness of your storytelling. Magic realism is a fascinating genre, and I can see why it resonates with you.
I love how you've woven personal experiences and inspirations into your narrative, from your connection with adult education students to the mystical quality of the Great River. The idea of a river preserving artwork is truly captivating!
Your marketing efforts sound impressive, and I'm excited to see your book gain more traction. I'd love to support you further! Would you like to connect on Facebook? Please feel free to send me a friend request, and we can discuss more ways to promote your work.
Once again, thank you for sharing your insights, and I look forward to staying updated on your writing journey!
Huge congratulations on the release of Silver Lady: Travels Along the River Road! I'm beyond thrilled for you.
As an author myself, I know how much hard work and dedication goes into bringing a book to life. I'd love to connect and hear more about your writing journey.
Let's celebrate your success and support each other in our writing endeavors!
Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm thrilled to have published 13 books so far, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my stories with readers.
I'm especially close to "The Oceans Between Us", as it was inspired by the true events behind the Ten Pound Poms scheme. I was deeply moved by the stories of the children who were separated from their families during WW2, and I felt compelled to explore this theme in my writing.
What about you, Susan? What inspired you to write "Silver Lady: Travels Along the River Road"? I'm intrigued by the title and would love to hear more about your book.
