My Writing

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1. What inspired you to write this novel?

I've always had a fascination with angels, and I knew early on I wanted to write a love story. The inspiration for this novel came during a period of deep reflection when I decided to explore my fear of death in a different light—by befriending it, perhaps.

2. How did you come up with the characters and their backstories?

For most of the characters, it wasn't so much about creating them as it was about allowing them to make their presence known to me. The exception was one character, who I knew would need to die as part of the trilogy. Even then, they revealed themselves to me in a way that moved me deeply. I cried (and will forever lament their inevitable end) but I accepted their gift with gratitude.

3. What are the main themes or messages you hope readers take away from your book?

• The Complexity of Love: Exploring love’s transformative power, both its capacity to heal and the sorrow it can bring.
• The Nature of Death: Death is not an end, but a transition—something to understand and embrace.
• Emotional Resilience: The strength and vulnerability required to cope with grief and loss.
• Self-Discovery: Characters finding themselves through their experiences with love and death.

4. Can you share a favorite quote or scene from your novel?

One of my favorite moments is when Delilah pieces together the breadcrumbs that have been placed: 

"Forlorn eyes meet mine, and they too smolder with the understanding that my questions will end only with a life-altering detonation of truth."

5. What does your writing process look like?

Writing for me has always been about carving out time amidst a busy life. I’ve established "writing nights" once a week and take advantage of every other moment. The first draft took ten years of learning, self-discovery, and belief in my writing. The last 60% was completed in just one year, thanks in-part to the motivation and feedback I received from my incredible "writing sisters". Their support has been invaluable.

6. How do you handle writer’s block or challenges while writing?

I’ve learned to leave the difficult sections alone for a while, trusting that the answers will come when I’m ready. Sometimes I note "Insert conversation here" into the manuscript and move on—this has led to many "aha" moments. And when challenges arise, I rely on my writing sisters or the wider writing community for help. It’s a fantastic network.

7. Are any characters or events in your novel based on real-life experiences or people?

Though the characters and events are fictional, bits and pieces of my own life inevitably shape them. Writing this book has been a healing journey for me, working through some of the more difficult experiences I’ve had.

8. What kind of research did you do for your book?

To depict Delilah’s internship accurately, I did a lot of research on architecture, as well as languages and angel lore. Even though I haven’t visited Ithaca or Manhattan yet, I pulled from my family’s experiences in upstate New York and did extensive research to create an authentic setting.

9. What’s the most rewarding part of being a writer?

Seeing a blank page turn into something alive is incredibly rewarding. Only a handful of people have read my novel so far, but I look forward to the satisfaction of sharing it with more readers.

10. What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Just start. Even if it’s only an hour a week or five minutes a day, make time for writing. Every word gets you closer to your goal.