What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Clear Path: A Bodhi King Novel?
My Bodhi King character not only solves mysteries as he travels, he also has a knack for building community and seeing people who are often overlooked. The theme of seeing (and being seen) clearly fits perfectly with Bodhi’s journey.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Clear Path: A Bodhi King Novel, what would they be?
“I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” (by the Proclaimers), for Bodhi, “I Can See Clearly Now” (by Johnny Nash) for Julie, “Wildflowers” (by Maddie Poppe) for Diana, and “You Don’t Have to Try So Hard” (by Cobie Caillat) for Rory.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I read widely across genres, which is probably why I write in multiple genres!
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I’m finishing up Great Big Beautiful Life on audio, The Summer Guests in ebook, and Long Bright River in print right now.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Oh, that’s tough. Probably the scene where we first meet Rory while she’s documenting the demolition.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
So many! Here are a few: I have a different playlist and a different scented candle for each series character, as well as two mugs depending on how motivated I am—one says “feeling a little brilliant right now” and the other says “this book isn’t going to write itself.”
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
“In a time of destruction, create something: a poem, a parade, a community, a school, a vow, a moral principle; one peaceful moment.” — Maxine Hong Kingston
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Bodhi, as always, sees things as they truly are, and by seeing what is clearly, we can recognize what’s good and the beautiful in each other and in our flawed and scarred world.
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