What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
My understanding of Adrienne and Joe’s place in history came about after I researched Los Alamos and the remarkable women associated with the Manhattan Project. I can’t praise enough the people who took the time to document this unique time in history, especially the Los Alamos Historical Society, which conducted a video interview with Adrienne. It brought me great comfort when Adrienne passed.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
It would be a dream if Agnes Obel’s haunting yet elegant piano, strings, and gentle vocals were used to score a movie adaptation of Gone Away. Listening to her music while reading the book is second best!
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
My favorite genre is based on any given book I’m writing. With historical fiction, it was a blast diving into a part of history I knew little about, including life at Los Alamos and the role that women played there. Thrillers are my ultimate favorite books to write. I love writing scenes that get my heart racing!
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Until the Night by Giles Blunt
Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy
The Invention of Sound by Chuck Palahniuk
Bones of the Deep by J.F. Penn
Rise of the Grindragon by J.M. Goldie
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
The most meaningful scene for me to write was the last one. Somehow it processed my grief and allowed me to say goodbye.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
When researching, I enjoy adrenaline-packed activities that will end up in my stories, like taking a helicopter flying lesson, racing exotic cars on the track, or learning about wilderness survival. From a writing perspective, I roam between different spots every hour or so. It allows me to process what I wrote and think about what happens next. A delicious white chocolate mocha makes it all the better!
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
Do something small that makes someone laugh or smile. You just might make their day.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
After reading Gone Away, I hope the altruism of even the smallest deeds and sacrifices will inspire readers.
