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‘Writing Has Become Another Way for Me to Help People’

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INTERVIEW

Maria Gallucci is an award-winning real estate broker, a best-selling author, and a champion of inclusive communication and accessible housing with over 30 years of experience. A CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) who learned ASL (American Sign Language) before English, she works with the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and LGBTQ+ communities, as well as with builders, investors, and families throughout the US. She founded Uptown Realty Group, Gallucci Homes, ASL @ Compass, and ASL Realty and is a top producer at Compass. Furthermore, she ranks in the top 1.5% of REALTORS® nationally. A board member for Rocky Mountain Deaf School, DOVE (Deaf Overcoming Violence through Empowerment), and the Colorado Association of the Deaf, her motto, ‘Just Try,’ fuels her mission to ensure that her underrepresented clients are heard and respected. B Sudharsan, Founding Editor-in-Chief of Literary Harbinger, recently interviewed her via email. Below, you can read the full interview with Maria Gallucci, which is edited sparingly for flow.

SPECIAL TO LITERARY HARBINGER

‘Understood Why People Say Everyone Has a Story’

B Sudharsan: It is such a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Ms Gallucci. To begin with, when did you start writing?

Maria Gallucci: I’ve always loved stories, but I never considered myself a writer. I was the person who loved reading mysteries and suspense novels and admired the people who could write them. It wasn’t until recently that I realized I had a story worth telling. Once I started writing Raised in Silence, I couldn’t stop. I finally understood why people say everyone has a story.

B Sudharsan: Your first published book draws on your own life and experiences. What inspired you to turn those experiences into a book, and what did you hope readers would take away from it?

Maria Gallucci: My first published book, Raised in Silence, is based on my life growing up as a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), where American Sign Language was my first language. While it shares my experiences, it’s really about something much bigger than that. It’s about communication, inclusion, empathy, and belonging. People often think it’s only for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, but I always tell them it’s for everyone. Every one of us has felt misunderstood, left out, or like we didn’t belong at some point in life. Those are the moments that connect us. The book came to life because so many people kept telling me, ‘You have to write these stories down.’ Eventually, I listened.

‘The Book Almost Wrote Itself’

B Sudharsan: Once you decided to tell these stories, how did the writing process unfold for you?

Maria Gallucci: Since Raised in Silence is based on my life, I knew the stories I wanted to tell, but I didn’t always know how they would come together. As I wrote, memories I hadn’t thought about in years would suddenly come back. One story would lead to another, and before I knew it, the book almost wrote itself. Looking back, I think it unfolded exactly the way it was supposed to.

B Sudharsan: That feeling of discovery sounds pretty interesting, especially since you didn’t set out with a defined structure in mind. Are there certain writers whose work has helped to form the kind of writer you are?

Maria Gallucci: I’ve always enjoyed mystery and suspense authors because I love trying to solve the puzzle before the ending. But I’m also drawn to authors who make you feel something. The books I remember most aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest twists. They’re the ones that stay with me long after I’ve finished the last page. That’s the kind of book I hope I’ve written.

ALSO READ | ‘Take a Chance on Yourself’

‘I Write Whenever Inspiration Hits’

B Sudharsan: You’ve just touched on the importance of books that stay with a reader long after the final page. That sounds like an important emotional connection for you. Does that change the way you think about writing? When do you generally write?

Maria Gallucci: I wish I could tell you I had this perfectly organized writing routine, but that’s just not me. I write whenever inspiration hits. Sometimes that’s early in the morning with a cup of coffee, and sometimes it’s late at night when an idea won’t leave me alone. If a story comes to mind, I’ve learned to stop what I’m doing and write it down before it disappears.

B Sudharsan: Your life combines writing with a long and successful career in real estate and advocacy. Where are you currently based, how old are you, how have your experiences shaped you, and what stage of life are you in?

Maria Gallucci: I live in Colorado, where I’ve spent more than three decades building my real estate career while serving clients throughout the state. My education has come from a combination of formal training, professional experience, and life itself. Growing up as a CODA taught me lessons no classroom ever could. As for my age, let’s just say I’ve collected enough life experiences to have plenty of stories to tell.

‘Balance Is Always a Work in Progress’

B Sudharsan: Given everything you’ve achieved in your career, did you always imagine yourself becoming an author?

Maria Gallucci: Not at all. Becoming an author was never part of my plan. I simply wanted to tell a story that might help people see the world a little differently. If the book encourages someone to become more patient, more inclusive, or more willing to connect with people who communicate differently than they do, then I’ve accomplished what I set out to do.

B Sudharsan: With real estate, advocacy, speaking, and writing all demanding your time, how do you make room for the things you enjoy outside your professional life?

Maria Gallucci: Balance is always a work in progress. I’m still a full-time REALTOR®, speaker, and advocate, so my days stay busy. Writing has to fit around everything else, but it’s become something I genuinely enjoy instead of another item on my to-do list. When I’m not working, I love spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, exploring Colorado, and, of course, hanging out with my pug, Ray. He definitely keeps life entertaining.

ALSO READ | ‘There Can Never Be Too Many Stories in the World’

‘Don’t Let Numbers Decide Whether Your Story Matters’

B Sudharsan: Having discovered the joy of writing, do you have more stories you would like to tell, and could you see yourself becoming a full-time author?

Maria Gallucci: I definitely have more stories I’d like to tell. Right now I’m enjoying speaking, meeting readers, and having conversations inspired by Raised in Silence. I don’t see myself giving up real estate because I truly love what I do, but I absolutely see more books in my future. Writing has become another way for me to help people, and that’s something I want to continue.

B Sudharsan: What would you say to aspiring writers who become discouraged when their work does not receive the response they hoped for?

Maria Gallucci: Don’t let numbers decide whether your story matters. Sales, reviews, and rankings go up and down, but if your words help even one person, you’ve succeeded. Keep writing because you have something to say, not because you’re chasing a bestseller list. Success doesn’t always happen overnight. Sometimes your book finds its readers when they’re ready for it.

‘No Two Days Are Ever the Same’

B Sudharsan: Your work centers so strongly on empathy and inclusion. If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?

Maria Gallucci: I’d love to see people become more willing to understand before they judge. We spend so much time focusing on what makes us different instead of what we have in common. A little more empathy and a little more curiosity could change so many lives.

B Sudharsan: You lead a remarkably varied professional and creative life. What does a usual day look like for you?

Maria Gallucci: No two days are ever the same, and that’s exactly how I like it. One day I might be showing homes; the next I’m recording a podcast, speaking at an event, writing, or meeting with clients. Somewhere in there you’ll usually find me answering emails, drinking coffee, spending time with Ray, and trying to squeeze in a little reading before the day is over.

‘ASL Is a Huge Part of Who I Am’

B Sudharsan: You grew up with American Sign Language as your first language. What role does ASL continue to play in your life today?

Maria Gallucci: American Sign Language was actually my first language, so it’s a huge part of who I am. I still use ASL every day, both personally and professionally. Being bilingual in ASL and English has allowed me to connect with people in ways I never realized would become such an important part of my life and career.

B Sudharsan: Finally, what is the one message you would most like readers to carry with them after reading Raised in Silence?

Maria Gallucci: I hope readers remember that every person they meet has a story they know nothing about. We all want to feel heard, understood, and like we belong. You don’t have to know sign language to make someone feel included. You don’t have to have all the right words. Sometimes all it takes is a smile, a little patience, and a willingness to try. That’s really the heart of my book and the way I try to live my life.

DO READ | Revere Your Guru

I’d love to see people become more willing to understand before they judge. We spend so much time focusing on what makes us different instead of what we have in common. A little more empathy and a little more curiosity could change so many lives.

~ MARIA GALLUCCI

ENGAGE WITH LH | Click on the cover image of the book Raised in Silence and buy yourself a copy right off the bat!

‘The More Fun Writing Is, the More I Want to Do It’

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INTERVIEW

S A Schneider has a wolf, so naturally, he writes middle-grade fantasy. From his Lego and action-figure days, Schneider has been creating worlds and crafting stories within them, a pursuit that continues through his middle-grade fantasy works. But his interest in storytelling extends beyond traditional narratives. Schneider also explores how storytelling works in video games and encourages children to discover how they can create their own stories and fantastical worlds. He hopes to inspire others to join him in this imaginative pursuit. Recently, Schneider was interviewed by B Sudharsan, Founding Editor-in-Chief of Literary Harbinger. Excerpts:

SPECIAL & EXCLUSIVE

From Short Story to Book to Series

B Sudharsan: It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mr Schneider. How long have you been writing, and what sparked your interest in it?

S A Schneider: It’s been about ten years, but I first got the thought to write about five years before that. I was a Girl Scout leader and wanted to write books that had female protagonists for my girls to read.

B Sudharsan: You mention you wanted to write books with female protagonists for the girls in your Girl Scout troop. How did that initial idea eventually lead to your published works, particularly the Town Magician and The Oddish Questors series?

S A Schneider: My fantasy series—Town Magician—started as a short story. Near me, at Kent State University, they had an annual Wizarding World festival. I wanted to set up a table but needed something that fit. So I wrote a short story. And, as happens, that short story grew to be a book. And, as happens, that book became a series. My newer series—The Oddish Questors—is based on my kids and stepkids. It’s been the most fun to write since I incorporated a bit of their personalities into it. I also included our wolf, Hunter, as a character. It’s been some fun stories.

‘My Two Favorites are Stephen King and Michael Crichton’

B Sudharsan: How do you approach developing a story once you have its basic premise? Do you map out the plot and characters beforehand, or do they evolve as you write?

S A Schneider: I have things loosely planned and mapped out. Not a detailed outline. Though, as I’ve gained experience, I can flesh out the outline more, and the writing is then even easier. I have a basic idea of the story, and then I use tools like Save the Cat and Hero’s Journey to help me fill in any details of the story that I may have missed.

B Sudharsan: Are there any authors who have significantly influenced your writing?

S A Schneider: My two favorites are Stephen King and Michael Crichton. Both keep me turning pages and wanting to read just a little more. Even books I’ve already read.

B Sudharsan: With your writing competing for time alongside editing, marketing, and events, how do you structure your writing routine, and when do you find yourself most creatively inspired?

S A Schneider: I try to write in the morning before work. But I can sometimes find other times to write. I have to balance it with editing, marketing, joining events, and a myriad of other connected things. Often, I will have a scene in my head while driving or mowing, and I need to write it down as soon as possible.

‘My Kids Call Me Their Intergalactic 12-Year-Old’

B Sudharsan: Great to learn that your writing and storytelling have developed alongside your experiences in other fields. Please tell us a little about where you live, your age, and your educational background.

S A Schneider: I live in Northeast Ohio near Kent State University. I went to school for computers and music, though I’ve let my music slacken recently. Do you want to know my physical age or my mental age? My kids call me their intergalactic 12-year-old.

B Sudharsan: (laughs) Certainly. Looking back at the journey you have described, when did you consciously begin to see yourself as an author?

S A Schneider: I had not given much thought to being an author until Kindle was introduced and I observed the emergence of numerous books. Then when I wanted to write stories for the girls in my Girl Scout troop, it all fell together.

‘I’d Love to Be a Full-Time Author’

B Sudharsan: Since becoming an author involves much more than writing, how do you balance your creative work with your personal responsibilities? What do you enjoy doing when you are not writing?

S A Schneider: Well, that’s a thoughtful question. It’s difficult occasionally. After work and then doing everything needed, like mowing the lawn and grocery shopping, some days you just want to do anything except sit at the computer and think. But the more fun writing is, the more I want to do it. I enjoy reading, of course. I’m trying to find the time to get back into music. I also enjoy playing games with friends.

B Sudharsan: You mentioned that you are continuing to develop The Oddish Questors and have the third Town Magician story in mind. Please tell us about your current projects and where you hope your writing career will go.

S A Schneider: I’m working on more Oddish Questor stories. I also have the third Town Magician thought out, but not much written. I would like to be a full-time author, but it’s not easy to just do that.

ALSO READ | ‘Becoming an Author Was an Act of Desperation During Lockdown’

‘Concentrate More on Writing Than on Anything Else’

B Sudharsan: Drawing from your own experience of developing as a writer, what advice would you offer to aspiring authors who become discouraged when their work does not perform as they had hoped?

S A Schneider: Concentrate more on writing than on anything else. Don’t worry about seminars or classes at first. Don’t even worry about publishing. You’d be better off and further ahead if you wrote several books and short stories first and then went back to some learning to improve them. You’ll get so much more out of any learning if you’ve written multiple things. And that will be beneficial when you finally publish, and your published works will perform better for you. So all that time spent waiting is worth it.

B Sudharsan: Your advice to writers emphasizes the importance of writing and storytelling. Does that philosophy also connect with your thoughts on how we encourage children to read and tell stories?

S A Schneider: Oh, don’t think I want to go into this topic here. But there are multiple things. How about in school we let kids read more of what they want, including comics? And let’s not worry about spelling and grammar so early on. Let kids tell stories and learn to have fun telling them and reading whatever they want. I think that when you then introduce spelling, grammar, and reading other things, it will go over much better, and we’ll have people who enjoy stories.

‘Writing Is Some of the Fun Time’

B Sudharsan: You have spoken about writing, family life, work, and the everyday responsibilities that shape your routine. What does a typical day look like for you?

S A Schneider: My typical day includes working; household tasks like making dinner, doing dishes, and taking care of the animals; and some fun time when I can. Writing fits in there to various degrees and is some of the fun time.

B Sudharsan: Do you speak any languages besides English?

S A Schneider: Do some computer programming languages count?

B Sudharsan: (smiles) Finally, beyond what we have discussed, is there anything else about your books or your journey as a writer that you would like to share with our readers?

S A Schneider: All my books are at https://sa-schneider.com. I also have helpful resources for teachers and homeschool parents.

DO READ | What Happens When Animals Seize Power?

How about in school we let kids read more of what they want, including comics? And let’s not worry about spelling and grammar so early on. Let kids tell stories and learn to have fun telling them and reading whatever they want. I think that when you then introduce spelling, grammar, and reading other things, it will go over much better, and we’ll have people who enjoy stories.

~ S A SCHNEIDER

ENGAGE WITH LH | Click on the cover image of the book you wish to read and buy yourself a copy right off the bat!

The Seeker’s Dilemma

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ESSAY

A few months ago, I journeyed from Chennai to Arakkonam, a railroad town some 80 km away. Krishna, a man whom I hold in the highest regard, accompanied me. We met three years ago when I was working for an ed tech company. He was my reporting head. He’s a great speaker with such authority that I was initially intimidated by him; he naturally inspires a bit of awe. But as time passed, I learned he was an incredibly empathetic person who genuinely cared about the well-being of those around him. Talking to him always gave me something to reflect on. I’m still in awe of his amazing ability to juggle time and duties with ease.

On the way to Arakkonam by suburban train, our talk swirled around questions of existence, consciousness, death, and the existence of God. I used to be a forceful believer. However, exposure to epistemology gradually forced me to reconsider many of my assumptions. I don’t say with absolute certainty that God does not exist, but I no longer believe in a creator who is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent in the traditional sense. But that doesn’t mean I’m completely closed off to the idea. I realized, after talking with Krishna for a long time, that I had been carrying so many unexamined assumptions within me for years. It felt more and more important to face these things honestly, rather than to continue living in quiet intellectual inconsistency.

Something to Be Argued Into Existence?

Like so many others who may have searched the internet for deductive arguments that might prove the existence of God, I too had wanted certainty. I told Krishna that I considered myself a seeker, that if I were ever presented with convincing evidence for God, I would willingly change my mind. After all, my philosophy has always been based on the principle that beliefs must be revisable in the face of new evidence.

When I told Krishna that I was a seeker, he replied immediately, ‘You will be a seeker for the rest of your life.’

I didn’t understand the meaning of what he was saying at the time. But in retrospect I can see that I had been operating for a long time under a strong assumption: that God, if He existed, must be demonstrable by argument and evidence. Perhaps even many prominent atheist debaters, like Matt Dillahunty, share this assumption without fully recognizing it themselves.

But what if God is not something that can be proved in the usual sense? What if divinity, if it exists at all, is not something that can be argued into existence but rather something to be experienced? I have heard many people share very personal spiritual experiences, and I have too often dismissed such testimonies too quickly. But I have begun to wonder whether that dismissal itself is ever an example of intellectual unfairness. Is it irrational to take lived experience seriously just because it cannot be universally verified?

ALSO READ | Controlling the Controllables

Photo by Abhilash Subbayyan

The Great Leveler

Atheists frequently argue that if God exists, then such a being is not worthy of worship because the world is full of suffering. But I find myself wondering if suffering is entirely objective. Is suffering a function of the events themselves, or is it partly a matter of interpretation? Death is, after all, the great leveler. It’s the one thing we can’t escape. And if mortality is the only reality we all share as human beings, perhaps learning to face it meaningfully is more important than winning abstract metaphysical debates.

Krishna pushed the argument further. ‘I’m not concerned about confirmation bias,’ he said. If the belief in a higher power gives me peace, joy, and psychological stability, then why should I be troubled by the possibility that this belief may be false? Why do we reduce everything of value to proof? What if God cannot be limited by the bounds of argument?

The more I thought about what he said, the more it sounded well said. Belief, no question, provides many people strength. It gives confidence and a sense of purpose, even in a universe that may itself have no intrinsic purpose at all. If a common belief can help people to live more meaningfully, why reject it simply because it cannot be conclusively proven?

ALSO READ | ‘Doubt That Literary Success Is Defined by Sales’

Who Are You?

In my case, more and more I have felt that it is perhaps more important to understand one’s own nature than to settle the question of God’s existence. My cousin, a teacher who believes she has been saved by a higher power in several near-tragic experiences, once told me that obsessively investigating whether God exists is not the main issue. ‘The real question,’ she insisted, ‘is who are you really?’

She gave me an example that I have remembered ever since. When a person dies, we say that they ‘are gone,’ yet the body is still there in front of us. If the individual was simply the body, why would we speak this way? Why do we not go on relating to the body as if the person were still there? The body rots, but we feel something integral has been lost. ‘We can’t just be the body,’ she said. There is something beyond that, and that reality can be grasped only through sadhana.

Photo by Matheus Bertelli

A Worthy Guiding Principle?

I have no way of knowing whether her conclusion is correct, nor do I know how one might definitively investigate such claims. But I am thankful for having lost at least some of my earlier presuppositions. I now try to be more open in answering these questions. I carefully evaluate spiritual testimonies and claims rather than accepting or dismissing them at face value.

More to the point, I have started to wonder whether the pursuit of happiness and inner contentment might actually be a worthy guiding principle. If belief in a higher power does indeed help human beings develop resilience and bliss, then perhaps the value of that belief is not in whether it can be proved, but in what it allows people to become.

DO READ | The Man Is Dead

But what if God is not something that can be proved in the usual sense? What if divinity, if it exists at all, is not something that can be argued into existence but rather something to be experienced?

~ B SUDHARSAN

‘I Love Meeting Readers and Personalizing Books for Them’

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INTERVIEW

Sandy Malone planned weddings in the Caribbean for 11 years with her retired SWAT commander husband before Hurricane Maria wiped out their company overnight. She left her mark on the wedding world with hundreds of expert columns in BRIDES, HuffPost Weddings, WeddingWire, and the ‘Wedding Reality Check with Sandy Malone’ podcast. She is well-known for her book How To Plan Your Own Destination Wedding: Do-It-Yourself Tips From An Experienced Professional, which was published by Skyhorse Publishing in 2016. The Gem of the Golden Isles series, which currently comprises five books, is available through IngramSpark’s Lightning Source or can be purchased directly from the author in most of Georgia and North Florida. Malone is available for book club gatherings, interviews, readings, and book signings. She corresponded with B Sudharsan, Founding Editor-in-Chief of Literary Harbinger, via email recently. Excerpts from the edited interview:

HARBINGER EXCLUSIVE

From School Newspapers to Fiction

B Sudharsan: When did you start writing?

Sandy Malone: I started writing when I was little – I believe my first publication was a neighborhood newsletter written on a manual typewriter in third grade when I was home sick from school. I became editor of my high school newspaper, and then I started an independent newspaper between 15 private schools in DC. Eventually, I went on to become campus editor of The Lantern at THE Ohio State University. I graduated with a degree in journalism.

B Sudharsan: Tell us about your published works. How did they come into being? What is your latest book about?

Sandy Malone: My first published works (after writing for lots of newspapers, including the Wall Street Journal and HuffPost) were non-fiction books that were traditionally published. I wrote a DIY wedding planning book, and then I was asked to ghostwrite several books for other reality TV stars (including a Real Housewife). I started writing fiction two years ago and have published five books in the Gem of the Golden Isles Series:

Escape to Jekyll Island (Book One)
In Bloom on Jekyll (Book Two)
Treasure on Jekyll (Book Three)
In the Shadows on Jekyll (Book Four)
Christmas on Jekyll (Book Five)

I’m working on a new series now that has a crossover with the Gem of the Golden Isles series. It’s called Under the Oaks, and it takes place on St Simons Island, next door to Jekyll.

I’ve also written a stand-alone novel that’s completely different from my wedding planner series. It’s about a patriarchal family where money and influence are more important than anything. Thicker Than Blood is told through the eyes of three generations of women in that family, two of whom develop Alzheimer’s. Thicker Than Blood will be released this fall.

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‘I Need to Know How a Book Ends Before I Start Writing’

B Sudharsan: Before you begin writing a book, do you already have the plot and characters mapped out in your mind, or does the story unfold as you write?

Sandy Malone: I like to do a rough outline and figure out some of the character names before I start writing. I have learned that I need to know how a book ends before I start writing. The middle part writes itself as I go, and I get creative and add things while I write, but I have to have a solid direction for the ending from the beginning.

B Sudharsan: Do you have any favorite authors? If yes, please tell us who they are and why they inspire you.

Sandy Malone: I love Elin Hilderbrand, Nelson DeMille, Jennifer Weiner, Patricia Cornwell, and Susan Boyer. Elin and Susan write books about characters on islands, and I think I most closely identify with their writing. Patricia Cornwell and Nelson DeMille write the kind of intrigue that sucks me in. Jennifer Weiner makes me laugh. I think I’d like to hang out with her.

‘Someday, I Hope to Be Able to Write All the Time’

B Sudharsan: When do you generally write? Do you follow a fixed schedule, or do you write whenever you feel inspired to put your thoughts into words?

Sandy Malone: I write when I have blocked out time to do it because I like to write for hours at a time with few interruptions. It really only takes me a couple of weeks to write a book; it’s about having time to do it when I have so much work to do to promote the books I’ve already published. The writing is the easy part. A guilty pleasure, so to speak. Someday, I hope to be able to write all the time because I’ve sold enough books to pay somebody else to promote them!

B Sudharsan: Where are you currently residing? Could you also share your educational qualifications and age?

Sandy Malone: I’m 53. My husband and I live on Jekyll Island, Georgia, a tiny island just above the Georgia/Florida line. We moved down here to be closer to my mother after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

I grew up in Potomac, Maryland, and attended private schools, and I graduated from Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School in Washington, DC, the oldest Catholic girls’ school in the United States. I graduated from THE Ohio State University with a BA in Journalism in 1996 and went on to attend The Fund for American Studies’ Institute on Political Journalism at Georgetown University.

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‘I’ve Always Wanted to Be a Writer’

B Sudharsan: Was becoming an author a conscious decision?

Sandy Malone: I’ve always wanted to be a writer, but my mother discouraged it. She wanted me to get a job that I ‘could always go back to after having children.’ When I went off to college to study journalism, my mom was positive I was ‘going to end up writing obituaries on the overnight shift somewhere in the Midwest.’ I think she forgave me when I started writing the Politics.Net column at the Wall Street Journal.

B Sudharsan: How do you balance writing with other responsibilities? What are your hobbies and interests apart from writing?

Sandy Malone: When I started writing fiction novels, I committed to it full-time. But I only spend a little bit of life actually writing because most of my time is spent promoting the books I’ve already written. It’s a massive, time-sucking job, and it must be done, or nobody will know about my books.

My husband and I live on a tiny island that’s actually a state park, and I’m very involved in a local charitable organization and several other groups. I run a monthly Jekyll Island Girls Night Out that attracts quite a crowd. I also play tennis and love going to the beach with my husband and friends. We’ve definitely found our forever home here on Jekyll.

I used to do a lot of crafting (love to paint glass) at night, but now that I’m an author, I don’t have as much time for it because we travel constantly. We have six grandchildren who live in the DC area, and I have to do a lot of book events all over the place to promote myself. We try to schedule multiple book signings into each trip and make time to see friends and family in between. I have a grandson getting married in Virginia in 10 days, and we’re doing a book event up there a few days before the wedding. We spend a lot of time road-tripping because there’s too much stuff for book signings to bring on a plane.

‘Takes a Long Time to Get Established in the Publishing World’

B Sudharsan: Tell us a little about your works in progress.

Sandy Malone: I’m working on another destination wedding planner series based on St Simons Island, Georgia, that crosses over with my Jekyll Island book series, Gem of the Golden Isles. The first book will be out soon.

My first stand-alone novel, Thicker Than Blood, will be released this fall. The book is fiction, but I used it to explore my own journey with my mother’s Alzheimer’s disease.

B Sudharsan: What would you like to say to budding authors who lose motivation when a few of their works do not perform well?

It takes a long time to get established in the publishing world. Very few people get big overnight. Patience is a virtue. But at the same time, you should be writing and publishing and taking constructive criticism to make your books better. I finally hired a professional team to help me get my books to the next level, and the first thing they told me to do was change my book covers because they looked like travel guides. Ouch. But they were right. We’re getting ready to relaunch the Gem of the Golden Isles series with new covers. I can’t wait!

B Sudharsan: If there is one thing you would like to change in this world, what would it be?

Sandy Malone: I’d like to see an intense plan by the federal government to figure out how to prevent Alzheimer’s disease because it’s becoming too common.

ALSO READ | ‘Take a Chance on Yourself’

‘Decided I Was Bilingual When I Started Dreaming in Spanish’

B Sudharsan: What does a usual day in your life look like?

Sandy Malone: I spend my mornings doing housekeeping at my desk—responding to emails, filling book orders that come in through my website, and posting about my books on social media. In the afternoons, I tackle the rest of my to-do lists and wish I were on the beach. On a book signing day, I get up early and triple-check my list of things to bring. I put on war paint, try to arrive early, and pull out my biggest, friendliest personality for the day. I love meeting readers and personalizing books for them, but it’s the most exhausting part of being an author.

B Sudharsan: Besides English, what other languages do you know or speak?

Sandy Malone: I speak Spanish, badly. I planned weddings in Puerto Rico for 11 years, and many of my employees and vendors didn’t speak English, so I perfected my high school Spanish and tried my best. I decided I was bilingual when I started dreaming in Spanish. Unfortunately, I don’t use it much living on the Georgia coast. And Puerto Rican isn’t exactly the Spanish we learned in the classroom.

B Sudharsan: If there is anything else you would like to share with our readers, please feel free to do so.

Sandy Malone: My husband and I starred in our own reality TV show on TLC called ‘Wedding Island.’ My first book series is about a young wedding planner who loses her job on Vieques Island after a hurricane and goes back to Jekyll Island, Georgia, to start over. It’s not autobiographical, but it’s based on my own experiences. Many of my readers have said they enjoyed watching ‘Wedding Island’ after reading Escape to Jekyll Island because they had a better understanding of where Tally was coming from and what it was like to plan weddings on an island, seven miles off the coast of another island, in the Caribbean.

DO READ | Bygone

It takes a long time to get established in the publishing world. Very few people get big overnight. Patience is a virtue. But at the same time, you should be writing and publishing and taking constructive criticism to make your books better. I finally hired a professional team to help me get my books to the next level, and the first thing they told me to do was change my book covers because they looked like travel guides.

~ SANDY MALONE

‘Write for the Joy of Creation’

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INTERVIEW

Author Seth Voorhees lives in the Black Hills of South Dakota, where he attended Black Hills State University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Psychology. His mornings, we are told, start with prayer, meditation, and a gratitude list. Then he lets out the family rabbit, Snowball, and feeds him. He writes and edits and writes and edits more until he has to leave for work. After work, he might go to the gym, meet with friends, or run errands, or, well, possibly all three. Then, he is back home to be with his family. The evening might have a movie or a puzzle in store for him, and it is usually followed by reading before bed. The only real change, however, happens during football season.

Having drawn on his experience in adolescent education and mental health to shape his stories, the quadragenarian, who also works as an evidence-based curriculum facilitator and staff trainer for partner sites and wishes to learn Lakota and Spanish, describes himself as a writer of dark fiction. In an exclusive interaction with B Sudharsan, the editor-in-chief of Literary Harbinger, the writer, who lives with his partner and stepdaughter, speaks about his four published books, the works in progress, his belief in the importance of having hobbies, and why he would like to see what he calls the ‘outrage culture’ eliminated. Excerpts from the edited interview:

SPECIAL TO LITERARY HARBINGER

B Sudharsan: It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mr Voorhees. Thank you for agreeing to do this interview. As someone with four published books to his name, let me start by asking you a very straightforward question: When and how did it all begin? When exactly did you start writing?

Seth Voorhees: I first started when I was in middle school. That was the time I was obsessed with the Goosebumps series. I actually worked on stories and ideas for my own inspired versions. I wrote my first novel when I was nineteen, during my senior year of high school. Eventually, college and other interests took hold, and I put writing down as a serious endeavour for a while. In 2016, I picked it back up at the age of thirty-one, when I was struck by an idea inspired by the television show The Walking Dead. That idea turned into my second published novel, Immune: Rise of the Inflicted.

Where Conflict Shapes a New World

B Sudharsan: That sounds inspiring, to say the least. Immune: Rise of the Inflicted does have rave reviews. So, congratulations to you on that! Could you shed more light on this novel and discuss your other works as well?

Seth Voorhees: Sure. I have four published works. All are available online, on Amazon, or at your favourite bookstore. I always recommend Barnes & Noble. Immune: Rise of the Inflicted is a pandemic narrative that explores how the pandemic reshapes society. As sides form, a new class structure emerges, and conflict erupts between the Immune, those immune to the virus, and the Inflicted, who survive the virus’s harsh trials. Both sides try to rebuild society, and their conflict shapes a new world. As I have already stated, it is inspired by The Walking Dead. I have also taken inspiration from the experience of the swine flu scare.

The Interim is a horror novel about the small South Dakota town of Copper, which, for two weeks in October, is haunted by Leopold, a seemingly invincible, diabolical monster. It is a different coming-of-age story in which the town’s youth tire of this yearly ritual. This one is inspired by Ray Bradbury’s Something Wicked This Way Comes.’

ALSO READ | After a Lifetime of Facts, He Chose Fiction

Mystery, Dystopia, and All That Jazz

Mid-Glow, on the other hand, is set in the 1940s, around Pearl Harbor, and inspired by the allure of the 1930s bank robber. This version follows a group of bank robbers who are extorted by the very person they have been robbing. Forced to complete taboo tasks, they become part of a larger mystery.

And last but not least, Question 17 is another dystopian novel. Set forty years after Earth won a war against alien invaders, the story unfolds in a futuristic world. The main character, Cory, a brilliant student, lands an internship at a secretive government facility and becomes entangled in its secrets.

‘I Am the Free-Flowing Type’

B Sudharsan: Thank you very much for sharing your inspirations. Now that we understand you not only derive inspiration from books and TV shows but also real-life experiences, might I venture to ask whether you already have the plot and characters mapped out in your mind before you work on a story, or does the story unfold as you write?

Seth Voorhees: I was told there are two types of authors. The plotter—they get everything structured, outlined, and figured out before they start. Then there is the pantser—they write unencumbered and free-flowing. I am the free-flowing type, meaning I do not have an outline or structure. I always start with a nugget of inspiration from a book, show, movie, news article, or something I observe in real life. It starts with a scene, and then I drop the character into it. From there, it goes.

If what I have written is engaging and keeps me interested, the idea of what happens next will come to me later in the day; if it does not, the story was not meant to be. I never know what the finished product is until the end. Now, I will take notes here and there and maybe get inspiration for the next several chapters.

ALSO READ | ‘There Can Never Be Too Many Stories in the World’

‘I Write First Thing in the Morning’

B Sudharsan: I love that. If I were to write a novel now, I would definitely be pantsing! How about the authors you read? Any favourites?

Seth Voorhees: Yes, when I was younger, it was Stephen King and R L Stine. But currently, my favourite authors are Darcey Coates, Jennifer McMahon, and Catriona Ward. Their characters are always well written, and their stories are never boring; they are filled with suspense and have great plots.

B Sudharsan: I cannot agree more, Mr Voorhees! I am given to understand you work a full-time job. So, our readers would like to know when you generally write. Do you tend to follow a fixed schedule? Or… do you write whenever you feel inspired?

Seth Voorhees: I write first thing in the morning, with a cup of coffee, in my office. Sometimes I have music, depending on my mood. The music is typically instrumental jazz or classical. The morning is when my imagination is at its best.

ALSO READ | ‘Don’t Write for Other People’

‘You Need to Learn From Failure’

B Sudharsan: How do you balance writing with other responsibilities? Could you also share your hobbies and interests apart from writing?

Seth Voorhees: My other interests include fishing, reading, walking, doing puzzles, watching football during the season, and spending time with family. Of course, my job as an evidence-based curriculum facilitator and coordinator for adolescents and their sites’ staff is also a priority. I do not know if anyone can truly balance it all. I think you take it one day at a time. On some days, you have to neglect one to focus more on another, and then you make up for it on a different day.

B Sudharsan: Tell me about it. How about your works in progress though?

Seth Voorhees: I currently have several projects underway, and all I can say now is that they are all in the horror genre.

B Sudharsan: I love the suspense you are creating! (smiles) Now that you have published four books, it does make sense for me to ask you what you would like to tell budding authors, especially those who lose motivation when a few of their works do not perform well.

Seth Voorhees: I should say, write for the joy of creation. Failure, though, is part of the process, and you need to learn from it and apply what you have learned to your next projects.

On Importance of Having Hobbies

B Sudharsan: And if there is one thing you would like to change in this world, what would it be?

Seth Voorhees: The one thing I would change is to eliminate what I see as an ‘outrage culture’. I feel a lot of people look for things to be mad about, to complain about, and to be outraged by, and they are too sensitive. We have reached a point where if someone disagrees with you, we look upon them as an enemy, and we have to hate each other. I think we need to be more accepting, more mature, and more open-minded.

B Sudharsan: Thank you very much for your honest insights and for taking our questions. Wishing you all the very best in each of your future undertakings!

Seth Voorhees: It has been a pleasure! And before I leave, I would like to say something I strongly believe in, and that is the importance of having hobbies. I think all authors should have them. For me, at least, much of the inspiration for ‘what happens next’ or for a new story often comes when I am engaged in those activities. The two most important ones are walking and fishing.

DO READ | Writing Beyond Retirement

I feel a lot of people look for things to be mad about, to complain about, and to be outraged by, and they are too sensitive. We have reached a point where if someone disagrees with you, we look upon them as an enemy, and we have to hate each other. I think we need to be more accepting, more mature, and more open-minded.

~ SETH VOORHEES

ENGAGE WITH LH | Click on the cover image of the book you wish to read and buy yourself a copy right off the bat!

A Poignant Tale of Love, Loss, Hope, Reunion, and More

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BOOK REVIEW

Book: Pretty Flamingo
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Author: Perry Martin
Rating: 5/5
Reviewer: Stavyah Vatsarah

Love. Hate. Betrayal. Romance. Horror. Hope. Separation. Reunion. Perry Martin’s debut novel, Pretty Flamingo, promises all of this and much more. It is a sublime tale that oscillates primarily between two time periods and two places: the late 1960s set in Brisbane, Australia, and the early 2000s largely set in California, the US. A poignant story of loss and separation, the novel does its best to address a metaphysical question you may have given a thought: Is it possible that we have ever lived before?

An Emotional Ride

As a reviewer, I am pretty darn sure the book will make you laugh and cry at the same time, surprise you with its wondrous twists, and possibly ensure you brood over questions that you might have considered way too philosophical hitherto. And even as it may cause you to shed tears of joy and sadness, it will most likely touch a part of your soul left untouched, thereby kindling a new magical spark. But does the book promise a happy end? Well, you will have to read the book to find that out!

Reading Pretty Flamingo, I found myself crying, shocked at the way certain events unfolded, and pleasantly surprised by the way the author ended it. It gave me what I needed – a break from the real world. I also found the plot resonating with me because I staunchly believe in the afterlife and the fact that the souls often assume a form based on the good and bad karma accumulated over thousands and millions of births. Nevertheless, I liked the way the author decided to build the main narrative around just two characters, detailing the time they spend together, the bond they share, and the uncanny activities they indulge in.

ALSO READ | If You’re a Lover of Short Crime Fiction, This Book Is a Must-Read for You

Heavily Influenced by Music

It is also worth mentioning that the story wonderfully goes back and forth, expounding the ‘forgotten’ days of the main character named David Perry and the life he is leading at present. The narrative is heavily influenced by music, leaving us convinced that the author, being a musician himself, does enjoy everything musical.

The main part of the story, anyhow, details David’s efforts to recover lost memories from a certain period during his teens. How does he come to forget such a significant part of his life? What happened back then?

My Take

I strongly suggest that every avid reader give Pretty Flamingo a read, for it will take you on a tootle that you may have never taken before, the return journey being as mystical as the initial one, if not more. 

Perry Martin, I believe, is set to emerge as an author who will be read by millions in the near future. His is a style that resonates with readers who love simplicity, who like commonly used words being given a new meaning, and who wish to escape the real world with the sole intention of returning to it with something intriguing. So read Pretty Flamingo, for I know it will not disappoint you, and after you finish, you will only plausibly find yourself evolved, metamorphosed, and… experienced.

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‘Kindness Is a Commodity That Pays Forward in Massive Dividends’

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INTERVIEW

Counselling therapist and author Eric Fisher reflects on his lifelong love for writing, the healing power of storytelling, and why discipline and kindness matter

Eric Fisher may be a counselling therapist, but the art of writing has fascinated him from a tender age. Speaking with Literary Harbinger in an exclusive interaction, the quadragenarian, who resides in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, says he began writing in his preteens. ‘I started by writing short stories and also creating comics using only pencils, featuring characters from the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise,’ he says, adding, ‘I also wrote poems when I was younger. I do not write as many short stories, poems, or create comic books now as I did in my younger years, yet I do look back fondly at those creative conduits and the creative process behind each.’

Writing with Purpose

Fisher began writing screenplays around the age of 15 (yes, you read that right!), pursuing that creative medium well into his late twenties before it fizzled out in recent years. He says he does not write as many screenplays now as he did in the past. ‘That seems to happen with some pursuits in our lives; they rise in importance and then seem less important as time goes on,’ he explains, adding, ‘For many, they find the hobby they enjoy and remain consistent with it, whether that is woodworking, model ship building, crafting, or painting portraits. I think that is awesome, and for the last few years, what I have been able to remain consistent with is writing non-fiction, specifically in the self-help improvement subgenre.’

Fisher’s first book is titled The Martial Art of Recovery: Self-Mastery Practices to Subdue Addiction and Achieve Mental Wellness, and his second is titled Buried Alive: Four Ways to Free Yourself from the Dirt. ‘First off, please let me share that I am a mental health clinician and have been in the field for over 16 years,’ the author, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counselling, tells us. His first book, he lets on, came into being as he tried to connect his knowledge of recovery from substance use and process behaviours such as gambling with his previous experience in a hobby or sport. ‘That happened to be martial arts, American Kenpo in particular.’

Finding Hope Through Adversity

The Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) and Counselling Therapist (CT), we learn, began figuring out metaphorical ways, using wordplay, to bring martial arts concepts and techniques to life in the context of mental wellness and recovery. ‘The intersection of martial arts with recovery was cultivated across about 14 months of writing the book. I discuss holistic ways to find wellness and defend against self-sabotage from substances, behaviours, or toxic relationships. Ways to practically apply the material are also given,’ shares Fisher, who is also basic-trained in EMDR and a Master Practitioner of ART, two psychotherapies often used in the treatment of trauma.

Be that as it may, his second book, Buried Alive, came into being because he wanted to connect certain self-help concepts with a major incident that happened in his life. The incident involved his father being accidentally buried alive while digging for Native American artefacts beneath an overhang in the woods of rural Tennessee.

‘In 2005, I video interviewed the three men involved in the near-fatal incident. I transcribed the interviews as best as I could. No AI was used!’ he says. ‘I was able to shed light on ways to be resilient even when dirt in our lives wants to keep us buried. Whether that is depression, shame, guilt, regret, grief, anxiety, or substance use, I show four ways to unearth ourselves from the dirt: the importance of community and connection, the importance of different types of balance in our lives, the CIA acronym (curiosity, introspection, and agency), and a mysterious concept that begins with “W” that will make sense when you go through the section,’ he explains.

Mediocre books sometimes become New York Times bestsellers. Discipline will outweigh the importance of motivation. As long as you have discipline—which shows you enjoy the process, focus on the present moment, and practise self-validation—you will always be on the winning team.

~ ERIC FISHER

Trusting the Creative Process

Fisher’s latest book, entitled Listening On Repeat, details his experiences as a seasoned mental health therapist. ‘Primarily my mistakes and learnings along the way, along with some self-help suggestions for particular challenges, such as impostor syndrome,’ he says.

Up until this point, Fisher has written non-fiction books, and the chapter placements were figured out for each of them. ‘The subsections within the chapters may emerge as I write and are not always planned,’ the author states, adding that one of his upcoming books will be outside the realm of non-fiction. ‘So, it will be interesting to see how I develop the plot points, characters, etc.,’ he says. ‘For that book, I am using a previously written, unproduced screenplay as the blueprint, which already has a beginning, midpoint, and ending. I will flesh out the content for the book, and with that, there will not be much planning, and I will see what comes up spontaneously as I get into the flow of the portion I am writing about. I do not think that either viewpoint reigns supreme!’

ALSO READ | ‘The Biggest Crime a Writer Can Commit Is to Give Up or Take Criticism Personally’

Writing on His Own Terms

An avid reader, Fisher appreciates Gabor Maté for his intriguing approaches to mental health and the way he views each person through a case-by-case lens, avoiding pigeonholing people into broad generalisations. ‘I also like how Bessel van der Kolk shows the importance of sharing that the body indeed keeps the score with trauma, and he does a fantastic job illustrating how the body is impacted and continues to be affected by traumatic experiences. His amount of research on the hugely complex topic of trauma is amazing,’ he says, letting on that he is currently reading Gideon’s Spies: The Secret History of the Mossad. ‘The amount of research its writer, Gordon Thomas, has done is exceptional,’ he says.

On being asked whether becoming an author was a conscious decision, Fisher, who tends to write when inspired, with little to no planning, while ensuring that the chosen approach does not betray his intentions, says he finds the question interesting. ‘I would have to say that yes, it was, yet the creative directions zigzagged in multiple ways before I wrote my first official book, whether that was writing and drawing amateur comic books, poems, screenplays, or short stories. I had always had the idea in the back of my mind of authoring a book, and that finally came to fruition a few years ago,’ he tells us.

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Showcasing Experiences as a Therapist

But how does he juggle writing and other responsibilities? ‘Mindfulness plays a key role in balancing writing with other responsibilities, including work, family, and recreational activities,’ Fisher declares. He says that time management, which he believes aligns with mindfulness, also greatly aids in maintaining that balance. ‘I know how much time I have for a certain activity, the space in between appointments, and how much writing I can get done before the next scheduled item. Sometimes setting an alarm on my smartwatch for activities helps me stay within the allotted time.’

Giving us a glimpse of his upcoming third book, Fisher, who is also fond of hiking on local and not-so-local trails, biking in local parks, watching films and TV shows, playing board games, travelling to new destinations, and trying exotic foods, lets on, ‘It is non-fiction, autobiographical, with some self-help elements. A type of memoir.’

He continues, ‘The book showcases my experiences as a therapist and what I have learned along the way. Currently in first-draft mode, it is based on a screenplay I wrote years ago. If I had to make a comparison mashup, I would say the book will be Michael Crichton’s Timeline meets Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, with action and sci-fi elements.’

Nonetheless, at this time, Fisher does not really plan to become a full-time author. ‘I do not feel that is my pathway at this time, but hey, if that does come to pass, I will not be annoyed or disappointed!’ he says.

‘Discipline Will Outweigh the Importance of Motivation’

As the conversation continues, we ask him whether there is anything he would like to tell budding authors whose works may not do well, and his response comes quickly. ‘Been there. Done that,’ he smiles.

‘I would tell an author that if they judge their merit based on the number of books they sell, they will always come up short. Many amazing books do not receive the recognition or monetary success they rightfully deserve. Mediocre books sometimes become New York Times bestsellers. Discipline will outweigh the importance of motivation. As long as you have discipline—which shows you enjoy the process, focus on the present moment, and practise self-validation—you will always be on the winning team. On a more practical side, be curious about why your book did not perform well. Perhaps marketing is something that you need to learn more about. Above all, market yourself, and the books will follow,’ he shares. But he does not end there. ‘All the best to the aspiring writers out there!’ he exclaims.

Final Thoughts

Last but not least, we venture to ask him whether there is anything at all that he would like to change in this world, and he tells us that he would like to change the lack of kindness. ‘There is not much effort involved in being kind to another person, regardless of whether they agree with my beliefs and opinions. Kindness is a commodity that pays forward in massive dividends. Being kind can brighten someone’s day without me even knowing it,’ he says.

‘Kindness considers my attitude, motivations, and behaviours. I may help someone be a little kinder to themselves by treating them with kindness. There is a lot of hate and violence in the world, and I feel that kindness could significantly improve how we interact on individual, group, and societal levels. Kindness will most likely be one of the many things we leave behind for others to remember us by,’ he shares, ending the interaction on a thoughtful note.

I may help someone be a little kinder to themselves by treating them with kindness. There is a lot of hate and violence in the world, and I feel that kindness could significantly improve how we interact on individual, group, and societal levels. Kindness will most likely be one of the many things we leave behind for others to remember us by.

~ ERIC FISHER

DO READ | ‘I Follow My Dopamine With Writing’

She Felt Like ‘An Alien Dropped onto This Planet Without a Script’

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A diagnosis of autism and ADHD gave J M Shaw something she had spent a lifetime searching for: clarity

INTERVIEW

J M Shaw has been writing for most of her life. ‘What began as a childhood hobby evolved into a passion that, at times, borders on obsession,’ she says. ‘My collection of early works has filled journals and hard drives, all shaped by my personal observations and imagination,’ she adds. Everything, nonetheless, changed in 2019 when the writer was diagnosed with autism and ADHD. After a lifetime of confusion during which she felt like ‘an alien dropped onto this planet without a script’, she finally had some clarity. ‘It was then that I understood that my intense focus, emotional depth, and ability to live inside fictional worlds were not flaws but gifts of a neurodivergent mind. In many ways, my fantasy series mirrors my own arc: navigating society through the lens of autism, embracing my differences, and discovering where I belong.’

Building Worlds of Magic and Belonging

The resident of southern Alberta, Canada, says that although her novels are filled with fantasy and adventure, at their heart, they explore learning to trust, making difficult choices, accepting who you are, and finding a sense of belonging.

‘The Ascension, for instance, is a dark fantasy adventure centred on Callum Walker, a young man with magical abilities who is thrust into a deadly conflict involving arcane masters and a hidden realm of magic,’ she explains. ‘As enemies close in from every side, Callum must either accept his fate and use his power to save the secret realm, or walk away, saving himself while condemning an entire world to destruction.’

The Convergence continues Callum’s story as he seeks peace but is drawn back into the magical realm, where ‘an ancient evil is stirring’, forcing him to confront betrayal, loss, and impossible dangers. In The Fractured Veil, the barrier between humanity and the magical realm is damaged, leaving Callum determined to set things right, while Forsaken Souls follows Callum and Jax Foster as they travel deeper into the magical realm.

ALSO READ | Controlling the Controllables

Writing Without a Rigid Blueprint

Asked whether she is a pantser or a plotter, Shaw says she usually knows where a novel begins and ends, and roughly how to get there. ‘The rest is undecided,’ she reveals. ‘Beyond this loose plan, I usually have an overarching theme woven into my novels, typically in the form of a question. In fact, my Callum Walker series was prompted after asking myself, “What if fairy tales were more than stories, and monsters were flesh and blood?”‘

She adds that every story is built around an emotional core. ‘The overall tone of my fantasy adventure reflects our deeply human desire for acceptance and belonging, as expressed through Callum’s longing for friendship, family connections, and a place to call home. This process allows me the freedom to let my creative juices flow, and at times, the story feels as if it is writing itself while I am just along for the ride.’

ALSO READ | How Maria Jane Found Her Voice Through Fiction

Finding the Courage to Publish

Although she had written for most of her life, Shaw admits she was never brave enough to share her stories. ‘After being diagnosed with autism and ADHD in 2019, I wondered if writing was my special interest. My diagnosis gave me the courage to send my rough manuscript for The Ascension to an editor. To my relief, my editor saw potential in my story and encouraged me to publish.’

A wife and mother of two busy boys, Shaw says balancing family life and writing means making use of quiet moments. ‘Often, that means writing for only a few minutes at a time, but progress is still progress,’ she tells us.

The author is currently writing the fifth novel in the Callum Walker series. ‘The stakes are higher, and Callum is facing decisions that could change everything,’ she states. Alongside it, she is working on a dystopian novel blending elements of Robin Hood, Romeo and Juliet, and The Hunger Games, which she describes as gritty, emotionally charged, and exploring what happens when rebellion clashes with loyalty and love.

ALSO READ | ‘Don’t Write for Other People’

‘You Will Never Know Unless You Dare to Try’

For aspiring authors, Shaw has a simple message. ‘Not every story will succeed, but that does not mean they are worthless. Everything we write allows us to hone our skills and teaches us something about ourselves.’

She regrets only one thing. ‘I kept my work hidden for years… It was not until I finally published my first novel that I discovered my work had merit… As I look back, I regret only one thing: not sharing my work years sooner. It just goes to show that you will never know how far you can go or who you will reach unless you dare to try.’

Asked what she would change about the world, Shaw answers without hesitation: ‘The lack of understanding people often have toward those who think or experience life differently. As someone with autism and ADHD, I have seen firsthand how harmful assumptions can be when people are unwilling to listen or learn. I believe the world would be a much kinder place if more people approached one another with open-mindedness, empathy, and a genuine desire to understand perspectives beyond their own.’

DO READ | ‘There Can Never Be Too Many Stories in the World’

As I look back, I regret only one thing: not sharing my work years sooner. It just goes to show that you will never know how far you can go or who you will reach unless you dare to try.

~ J M Shaw

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After a Lifetime of Facts, He Chose Fiction

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Having spent decades as an academic writer, Trevor W Harrison has returned to fiction and poetry, proving that creativity never retires

INTERVIEW

Trevor W Harrison wrote extensively as a teenager, focusing mainly on short stories and poetry. ‘I used to keep fulsome diaries whenever I travelled in my twenties. I later became a successful academic writer,’ he begins, speaking with Literary Harbinger in an exclusive interaction. ‘Now, in retirement, I have returned to other forms of writing—short stories and poetry once more—bringing with me the experiences that I gained through creative fiction,’ adds the 73-year-old writer, who holds a PhD in Sociology.

With another book due to be released shortly, Harrison now has fifteen books to his name. ‘Since retiring in 2023, I have written a book of memoirs and two poetry books. Next month, a memoir about travelling the Hippie Trail in the 1970s will be published by Athabasca University Press. Its title is Safarnameh: A Traveller’s Journey Along the Hippie Trail,’ he says.

‘I Find Inspiration in Doing Fairly Mundane Things’

As someone who prefers to give his characters room to breathe, Harrison admits that his recent creative works have evolved organically rather than according to a rigid plan. ‘My earliest influences were Hemingway, for his stripped-down writing; Kafka, for his unusual take on modernity; Orwell, for his insistence on truth; and Vonnegut, for his offbeat view of life—a rather mixed bag, to be sure. Most recently, I have been reading Ian McEwan because of the way he makes the commonplace seem uncommon,’ he tells us.

When asked whether he follows a fixed writing schedule, Harrison, who lives in Lethbridge, Canada, says that he does not. ‘I find inspiration while exercising or doing fairly mundane things. Whenever those moments arrive, I either rush to my study or hold on tightly to the ideas until I can write them down. Driving in the car is another opportunity during which my brain floats free and becomes creative,’ he explains.

ALSO READ | ‘There Can Never Be Too Many Stories in the World’

A Life Beyond the Page

Although Harrison eventually became an author, it was never something he consciously planned for in his life’s trajectory. ‘I simply couldn’t imagine doing anything else,’ he says, revealing that writing was less a career choice than an inevitable calling.

When he is not writing, Harrison enjoys travelling extensively and making time to stay physically active by working out at the gym three or four times a week. ‘I listen to music and give guest lectures on various topics, including politics, social issues, and writing. But I also enjoy doing mundane things around the house or outdoors because they provide me with the best opportunities to think,’ he lets us know.

ALSO READ | ‘Don’t Write for Other People’

‘The Point of Life Is Life’

At present, Harrison is working on a collection of fictional short stories, which he describes as a welcome challenge. ‘This is a bit of a stretch for me, but I’m enjoying it, and I think it is going well,’ he says.

When asked what advice he would offer aspiring writers, Harrison emphasises the importance of living fully as well as writing consistently. ‘Keep trying, but perhaps also take a break from writing. Good writing is what comes out of having a full and interesting life. Sitting in a room and thinking, “I must write [something],” is pointless. The point of life is life. Writing is an adjunct to this,’ shares Harrison, who also enjoys meeting fellow authors and appearing on podcasts.

Finally, when asked what he would change if he had the power, Harrison does not hesitate. ‘I would strip away the power that intellectual, financial, and political oligarchs wield to exploit people and suppress their individual creativity,’ he declares, signing off on a powerful note.

DO READ | ‘Writing Beyond Retirement’

Keep trying, but perhaps also take a break from writing. Good writing is what comes out of having a full and interesting life. Sitting in a room and thinking, “I must write [something],” is pointless. The point of life is life. Writing is an adjunct to this.

~ TREVOR W HARRISON

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‘There Can Never Be Too Many Stories in the World’

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From sharing stories with family and friends to becoming a published author, Diann Floyd Boehm reflects on her literary journey and enduring belief in the power of storytelling

INTERVIEW

Author, educator, and speaker Diann Floyd Boehm began writing about twenty years ago while teaching computer classes. ‘At the time, I was not submitting my work for publication; I simply shared my stories with family and friends to gather their thoughts and feedback,’ she says, speaking with Literary Harbinger in an exclusive interaction. What began as a personal creative pursuit gradually developed into a publishing career that has seen her work with both hybrid and traditional publishers and produce books that are aimed at young readers.

From Storyteller to Published Author

Looking back on her publishing journey, Boehm describes the transition from unpublished storyteller to published author as a long one. ‘It is a story that could easily fill a book of its own,’ the writer jokes. ‘To keep it brief, I chose the hybrid publishing route, and through OC Publishing in Canada, I was able to hold my first published book in my hands.’

Boehm says that Anne O’Connell, the owner of OC Publishing, played an important role in that journey. ‘She not only believed in my stories but also guided me through the publishing world with generosity and insight. I truly would not be where I am today without her mentorship,’ she shares. Over time, the writer expanded her publishing experience and developed close professional associations with both OC Publishing and Plum Creek Press.

Boomer’s Latest Adventure

Boehm’s latest book, Boomer Hears the Forest: The Curious Bunny Book II, is scheduled for release on August 4. Introducing the book’s central character, she says, ‘Boomer is an inquisitive little bunny who loves discovering new things.’

‘In this story, he sets out to explore the many sounds of the forest, inviting young readers to experience curiosity and wonder alongside him,’ she adds. The forthcoming title follows the curious bunny as he explores the natural world and encounters the sounds that fill the forest around him.

A Creative Process That Evolves Naturally

Discussing her approach to writing, Boehm, who is based in Texas and whose academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Education from George Mason University, a Kindergarten Endorsement from the University of Texas at Austin, and a distance learning certificate from Texas A&M University, describes herself as a pantser. ‘I begin with an idea and allow the story to unfold naturally as I write,’ she explains.

‘Once the first draft is complete, I begin shaping the story until it is finished. You would call this the time I organised the story,’ she tells us. Rather than working from a rigid outline, she allows the narrative to develop before refining and organising it through revision.

Books That Left a Lasting Impression

Asked whether there are authors from whom she draws inspiration, Boehm says she does not follow any one writer. Instead, she is drawn to stories aligned with her current interests.

‘I enjoy both contemporary works and classics. Two that come to mind are The Far Pavilions and Beautiful Joe, each of which left a lasting impression on me,’ she shares. Boehm, who has also studied Spanish, French, and German, continues to read widely across a variety of literary traditions.

A Conscious Decision to Become an Author

Although storytelling has always been part of her life, Boehm says becoming an author was a deliberate decision. ‘There came a point when I made the conscious decision to put my stories into print,’ she says.

‘If you had asked me in high school whether I would become an author, I likely would have laughed. My teachers might have noted my creativity as well as my need to improve my grammar. I like to think they would be proud of the journey I have taken since then,’ she shares.

New Projects on the Horizon

Boehm says she enjoys writing during the quiet hours of the morning with birds cooing and singing in the background. She also notes that she tends to write when inspiration strikes and remains immersed in a project until it is complete. When she is not writing, she pursues a variety of creative and outdoor activities.

‘I enjoy singing, gardening, quilting, and sewing. I also like to travel with my husband, and when we can, we do some white-water rafting,’ she says. ‘I have gone rappelling, spelunking, and I have travelled by dogsled and snowmobile in the Arctic. These experiences free my mind, and before I know it, more stories are bubbling up, ready to come to life.’

Boehm currently has several projects underway, including a book for tween readers. ‘I am also revising two previously published works for future re-release,’ she reveals. ‘Besides Boomer Hears the Forest: The Curious Bunny Book II, I have another book titled Humphrey the Camel, which is scheduled for release later this year,’ she lets on. The projects add to a growing body of work that continues to span different themes and age groups.

Perspective on Writing and the World

Offering advice to aspiring authors, Boehm emphasises the importance of focusing on the stories themselves. ‘Not every author will become a bestseller or achieve financial success, and that is perfectly all right. What truly matters are the stories you have to share. There will always be readers who connect with your words and find meaning in them. Write for fulfilment. Write to give something of yourself to others. When you focus on that purpose, the motivation to continue becomes much stronger.’

She continues, ‘If you have a story within you and dream of becoming an author, I encourage you to pursue it. There can never be too many stories in the world, and there will always be someone who needs to hear yours.’

Asked what she would change in the world if given the opportunity, Boehm points to a single aspiration. ‘I would like to usher in an era of peace; it is disheartening to see how often conflict has shaped human history,’ she says. The desire for a more peaceful world is the change that Boehm identifies when reflecting on broader global concerns. With that thought, the author signs off, bringing to a close a conversation that touched upon her writing journey, creative process, forthcoming books, and advice for aspiring writers.

If you have a story within you and dream of becoming an author, I encourage you to pursue it. There can never be too many stories in the world, and there will always be someone who needs to hear yours.

~ DIANN FLOYD BOEHM

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