What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write All Our Beautiful Goodbyes?
I was casting about for ideas for my next novel, and my daughter saw something on social media that mentioned there was only one baby ever born on Sable Island, which is a beloved location for Nova Scotians. That was the seed that started ideas flowing! I began researching the history of Sable Island, and the tree grew from there.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of All Our Beautiful Goodbyes, what would they be?
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri because it’s so beautiful and romantic!
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Yes, my favorite genre to read and write is women’s fiction, both contemporary and historical. I also love to read domestic thrillers. I’d love to write one, but most of my books have a love story at the heart of it, so I’m not sure if a domestic thriller would come naturally to me. But I’ve learned to never say never.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
At this current moment, Emma Straub’s THIS TIME TOMORROW, and Boo Walker’s AN ECHO IN TIME.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
My favorite scene happens late in the novel when Joanna visits Sable Island with her grandfather and she encounters some wild horses in the mist. It’s a special moment for her when she is connecting the past with the present.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I write the first draft longhand in a coiled scribbler with Paper Mate SharpWriter Mechanical Pencils, 0.7mm, HB #2, Yellow. They look like old fashioned pencils with a pink eraser, and I must have them. I buy them by the box.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I have two: Good or bad, it’s all part of the adventure. And life is meant to be enjoyed.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That beauty is everywhere, love is always out there, and we are all strong and resilient.
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