What inspired you to begin writing stories set in the Appalachian Mountains, and how does the region influence your work?
I grew up in the beautiful area of northeastern Tennessee. As a child, I would listen to my grandmother and mother talk about their life memories on Bays Mountain. I am proud of my heritage, and I love to tell my readers about the history and customs of my Appalachian ancestors.
Can you tell us more about the specific ancestors who inspired your fictional characters? What aspects of their lives do you find most compelling?
When I wrote Cora’s Story, I blended my grandmother's and my mother's characteristics to create Cora. I opted for a first-person narrative so that the reader would know the thoughts of the main characters as they handled the ups and downs of their lives. In the early 1900s, the people of Bays Mountain had nothing. They lived off the land, and most never traveled more than a few miles from their birthplace. They loved and lived fiercely.
How do you balance historical accuracy with the creative freedom of fiction when writing about your ancestors' lives?
Historical accuracy is very important in my work. I spend hours researching the era and the events of the time I am writing about. Fiction writing gives me creative freedom to get inside the minds of the characters who lived during a historical period.
What themes do you find yourself returning to in your stories, and why do they resonate with you?
All my fiction books are about everyday people who find adventure, despair, hope, and even a dash of romance. They work hard and end up with an unwavering faith in God.
How do the culture and history of the Appalachian Mountains shape the narrative in your book, “Cora's Story”?
Cora’s Story is written in Cora’s own words. She lives through the experiences she shares with the reader. I try to let the reader get a glimpse of what a young girl coming of age during the early 1900s and living in a remote mountain home could face.
What challenges do you face when weaving real history into your fiction, and how do you overcome them?
I aim to entertain, educate, and encourage my readers. I try to do my historical research before digging into the details of my story plot. Sometimes, a historical event becomes an important life-changing event for one of my characters. In Sarah’s Story, a tragic train accident in 1918 changed her family even before Sarah was born.
Could you share a specific story or character from your work that is particularly meaningful to you?
The Life on Bays Mountain Series is filled with special memories that changed the lives of Cora, Murrell, and Sarah. Murrell shows grit and determination to overcome a disability and even rescue a young girl. I love his willingness to never give up. Here’s a quote from Murrell: “Running away from our problems is a race we will never win.”
What led you to write devotionals, and how do you hope they impact your readers?
For many years, I have shared my devotional thoughts on Social Media. I pray for guidance before I begin all of my writing. When I was finishing editing Cora’s Story, I felt a need to encourage others to pray. That feeling was even more than need. I’ll call it a burden. Country folks will recognize the saying, “ I felt led by the Lord.” That’s when I knew that I also needed to share my thoughts about simple prayer. Words Attitudes Actions was the result.
How do you incorporate your own faith journey into your devotionals?
I am deeply convinced of the power of prayer. However, many people haven’t yet developed a consistent prayer life, or they have lost their way and need to start again. Therefore, I reach out to people who want to start their prayer lives with simple, short devotionals.
What role does prayer play in your life and your writing process?
I pray. My main characters pray. Prayer helps us face the ups and downs of life. Prayer helps me focus when I am writing.
What is the most important message you hope to convey through your book, “Words Attitudes Actions”?
This book is a simple devotional written to encourage its readers to pray persistently, passionately, and thankfully. It’s a collection of inspiring thoughts that will encourage the readers to #startwithprayer.
How do you keep your devotionals simple yet profound, and what do you believe is the key to effective devotional writing?
I can only speak of my own goal in writing simple devotionals. I want people to talk to God. After all, that is what prayer is—a conversation with God. The rewards are great!
How do you see the connection between storytelling and spirituality in your work?
My fictional characters find meaning and purpose when they have a personal relationship with a higher power, God. Although their stories aren’t about Christianity, the characters certainly find that belief in God helps them grow personally.
Can you share any upcoming projects or stories you're excited about? What can readers expect next from you?
Readers can expect another simple devotional and a new historical fiction series.
What has your AllAuthor experience been like so far? What are some highlights?
AllAuthor has certainly helped me in my journey as an author. I have connected with other authors who write in similar categories. I love the tweets and the Magic Tool. I’ve even entered my Covers in the Best Cover Contest.
