What inspired you to write “Fractured: Living with Grief,” and why did you decide to share such a personal story with the world?
I was suddenly widowed — no warning, no time to prepare. In the days that followed, I was surrounded by people who had followed my writing online. They encouraged me to tell my story, not as a manual for grief, but as an honest reflection of what it means to love deeply and lose profoundly. Their encouragement became the spark that led to Fractured.
The memoir deals with trauma and survival—how did you approach writing about such raw and difficult experiences?
It wasn’t easy. Every word came from a place of pain and reflection. But writing became a way to walk through the darkness and begin to understand it. Each page helped me face what happens after sudden loss — the shock, the silence, the endless re-learning of how to live.
Were there any particular moments during your writing process that were especially challenging or cathartic?
The memories — oh, the memories. They would come in waves. Some brought smiles that warmed me; others carried tears I didn’t expect. Those moments of remembering were both my hardest and my most healing.
How has writing this memoir impacted your own healing journey?
Writing Fractured reminded me that I could still help others, even from a place of deep pain. I’ve always been a helper — it’s simply who I am. To hear from readers who found comfort or strength in my story has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.
You mention the road toward healing is complicated—what are some insights or lessons you hope readers will take away from your book?
Healing doesn’t follow a map. Every journey through grief is unique. I want readers to know that whatever path they choose — whether slow, winding, or full of detours — it’s the right one for them. There are no perfect ways to heal, only personal ones.
What motivated you to continue the series beyond The Unforgiven Walk Alone?
The Unforgiven Walk Alone was the first in a series of memoirs I knew I had to write. For years, I had been in and out of therapy, facing the significant trauma that tore my family apart. One of my deepest struggles was the question of forgiveness — could I ever forgive the unforgivable? Over time, I realized that forgiveness wasn’t required for healing. Acceptance was. Writing became my way to explore that truth. My next work, HELD, moves into a quieter kind of reckoning. It’s about learning to rest inside healing, to stop running, to stand still, and to let grace do its work. If Fractured was about loss, and Running Shoes was about reclaiming power, HELD is about peace, the moment when survival becomes strength, and strength becomes serenity.
How do you balance honesty and vulnerability with protecting your own well-being when sharing traumatic experiences?
I’ve learned that healing and honesty can coexist when you have the right support. I have wonderful friends who listen, a life coach I trust — and I am a life coach myself. I’ve done the work. Most of what once felt unbearable has been understood, processed, and integrated. Sharing my story no longer reopens wounds; it shows others they can close their own.
What role do you think memoirs play in helping others who have experienced trauma?
Memoirs remind us that none of us are alone. My purpose has always been to help others and to give people hope. I’ve lived through PTSD, loss, and unimaginable pain — and I’ve come through every time, knowing I am whole, strong, and brave. At times I was a cavalry of one, but now I have a troop beside me.
Can you share how your personal journey has evolved since publishing your first memoir?
When Fractured was released, I could barely speak about my husband’s death. Now, I can stand before a room of people and tell that story with strength instead of tears. I’ve grown from a woman consumed by grief into one who carries her past as a reminder, not a burden.
Have you received feedback from readers who connected deeply with your story? How has that affected you?
I hear from readers often, and their words stay with me. Knowing that my story has helped them find courage or clarity has, in turn, helped me continue healing. Their encouragement has built my resilience — it reminds me to armor up when needed, but to stay open when I can.
How do you maintain your mental and emotional health while writing and promoting such heavy material?
My greatest grounding force is Rosie, my angelic dog. She has an uncanny ability to sense when I need to step away. She’ll nudge my leg, and that’s my cue — time for a walk, time to breathe. Those moments remind me that life still holds joy and lightness, even when I write about the heavy things.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering writing their own story of trauma and survival?
Write it. Just sit down and begin. Writing is healing — it gives shape to what once felt shapeless and helps transform pain into power. You don’t have to be ready to share it; you just have to be willing to face it.
Are there any authors or books that influenced your writing style or approach to memoir?
Not really. I’ve been writing my life since the fourth grade. My words have always been how I make sense of the world. When I sit down to write, it simply happens — it’s how I breathe.
What can readers expect from the upcoming books in your series?
The next book, Running Shoes, has just been released. It continues my story — what happened when I ran away but ultimately had to run back to myself. Writing it took immense courage because I revealed something I had locked away: I was a victim of domestic violence. Now, I am a survivor. Running Shoes is about reclaiming power, rediscovering worth, and running toward freedom.
Do you feel that AllAuthor has played a role in expanding your reach or growing your fanbase? Could you share any specific examples?
Absolutely. Joining AllAuthor has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’ve met new readers, made genuine connections, and even formed friendships with other writers who share ideas and support one another. It’s a wonderful, generous community — one that truly celebrates the art of storytelling.
