Almost Free follows an enslaved young woman during the Civil War era whose life takes a turn when the master’s nephew arrives, bringing a very different set of values to the plantation. What draws you to the historical fiction genre? 

Historical fiction has always fascinated me because it allows us to step into the lives of people who lived through extraordinary circumstances. I love the challenge of blending historical research with emotional storytelling to create characters who feel authentic and relatable. When writing Almost Free, I was particularly drawn to the Civil War era because it was a time of profound division and change. 

Learning to read becomes a powerful turning point for Maggie. What does literacy symbolize in the novel?

Literacy not only symbolizes words on a page, but it represents hope for the future. During a time where knowledge was often deliberately withheld from enslaved people, learning to read became an act of courage and empowerment. As Maggie gains the ability to read, she also begins to see herself differently, she begins to envision a future beyond the limitations others have placed upon her. 

Harland arrives with values that set him apart from the household around him. What inspired his character?

Harland was inspired by the idea that even in the darkest periods of history, there were individuals who chose compassion, courage, and moral conviction over conformity. His character wrestles with the beliefs and expectations of his time, ultimately choosing the path that was frowned upon by many. While Harland is fictional, his values are not. 

What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?

I am currently writing a historical novel set during the Prohibition era, a time of jazz clubs, hidden secrets, and profound social change. Like Almost Free, the story explores the resilience of the human spirit and the power of redemption. While I don’t have a release date to announce yet, I’m eager to bring readers into this fascinating chapter of history. 

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