What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
Still On Fire started with a question: what happens when you start over later in life… and feel something you didn’t expect? I wanted to explore that quiet, in-between moment—when life shifts, and you’re not broken, but you’re not who you used to be either.
Trish came from that place, returning to the lake with grief, history, and a hope she’s not sure she believes in yet. And then Bobby shows up. Their connection isn’t supposed to be complicated—but it is.
Because second chances come with more awareness, more risk… and more heat. At its core, this story is about desire that doesn’t fade—and the courage it takes to choose something real.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
For Trish, it’s “Lose You to Love Me” by Selena Gomez—that quiet realization that you had to lose something to find yourself again.
For Bobby, “Starting Over” by Chris Stapleton—steady, grounded, and deeper than he lets on.
And for them together, “Golden Hour” by Kacey Musgraves—that feeling when everything softens, and something real begins.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I’m drawn to emotionally rich contemporary romance—the kind that feels real, a little messy, and deeply human. I love second-chance stories, especially later in life, where the stakes feel higher, and the emotions run deeper. Add a small-town setting near a body of water, strong chemistry, and a little heat, and I’m all in.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I’m always drawn to authors like Abby Jimenez and Emily Henry for their mix of humor and emotional depth. And anything in the vein of Robyn Carr—those small-town, character-driven stories—always finds its way onto my list. Lately, I’ve been especially interested in stories about starting over and choosing what comes next.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
The sunset swim—no question. That moment is where everything shifts. Trish is suspended between who she was and who she might become… and then Bobby shows up. He pulls her out like she’s in danger, and she kisses him like she’s not. It’s impulsive, a little reckless, and completely honest. That scene carries the spark for the entire story.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I tend to write in bursts—once a scene clicks, I stay there until it’s done. I also reread the last page before I start again, just to fall back into the emotional rhythm. And music matters—I’ll play the same song on repeat if it matches the mood of a scene.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
It’s not too late to want more—and it’s not selfish to go after it. That idea shows up in my stories again and again. I believe in reinvention, second chances (3rd, 4th, 5th…) and the courage it takes to choose something meaningful, even when it’s not easy.
Savannah Birch is the author of the new book Still On Fire (Embers on Nisswa Lake Trilogy Book 1)
