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Finding Self-Worth
Janice Everet is a Southern gothic historical romance that retells Jane Eyre through the perspective of a blind heroine growing up in the 1930s American South. What was the inspiration for this creative and intriguing retelling of the classic story?
Janice Everet was my first attempt at a historical fiction novel, and it was a true joy to write. I chose to retell this story because, as much as I love Charlotte Brontë’s book, I found the idea of blindness being used as a sort of test or punishment to be both frustrating and sad. I am blind myself and wanted to depict a more affirming exploration. Also, my editor and friend, Stephanie Ricker, gave me the idea to explore Jane Eyre from my own perspective. Like Janice, I find solace in stories, and I love walks in nature. I am also a person who had to learn assertiveness, as I was very passive growing up. Janice Everet is a story of finding self-worth and discovering a worldview that others might not share, but it is a story of finding your voice and discovering that you truly matter. Janice’s character began to assert herself quite forcefully, and all the other characters did as well. Writing this book was both cathartic and surreal, a joyful experience I will never forget, and the characters will always haunt me. They’re some of the “truest” fiction characters I have ever had the honor of creating. They truly do not feel like something created, but something that has always existed. This is not by my doing, I can assure you. They just needed to be brought to life. This fact is hard to explain, but the characters are truly special.
Janice is based on the character of Jane Eyre, but you have added your own unique twist to this classic character. Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your character’s life?
Yes, this novel does explore some difficult topics, but Bronte’s original work explores abuse as well. What I love about the original Jane Eyre is that it is a story about a woman who defies her society’s expectations, but she does so in a humble way. So many books portray “strong” women as girl bosses or Mary Sues (people who don’t struggle or who are insufferable to be around). I wanted to portray a strong woman who is also quiet and humble, but who does not allow others or her disability to define her.
Over 83% of disabled individuals will experience assault of some kind in their lives. This shocking percentage is one I understand through personal experience. I wanted to portray the very real ways that disabled people are often treated by those who perceive them as weak or worthy of nothing but disparagement. I wanted to depict resilience and provide hope despite the horror often encountered in the world. This world is a cruel place, but it is also a place of resilient hope. How often do we encounter horrifying things on the news? Yet in the midst of the horror, hope can always be found if we seek it. Fiction enables us to explore difficult things, but true storytelling involves providing a leavening agent of hope and courage to balance out the horrific.
In your book, you explore the struggles of living with a disability, trauma survival, and the complex social dynamics of living through the Great Depression, WWII, and the 1950’s. What interests you in these subjects?
I am interested in the Depression, World War II, and the 1950’s, both because my grandfathers served in World War II and because my grandparents grew up in those eras. That generation truly learned the meaning of the word sacrifice and endured so many hardships. It was so interesting to research the time periods more extensively. I find the generation in which my grandparents grew up to be a remarkable one (as well as a generation marked by trauma that we might never fully grasp). To tell a story from that time period was truly fun and cathartic.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am working on a book called Earth Charmer (a sequel to my book entitled Wind Charmer). The story contains Native American lore and fantastical elements. Fans should probably expect its release in early 2027. I am also considering another historical fiction story in which one of the characters from Janice Everet makes an appearance, a story about polio and a mysterious entity in a music school. This idea is still germinating.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Growing up in the oppressive home of her Aunt Richards, Janice is stifled by condescending attitudes and flagrant disregard. She finds solace helping the household servants as they, too, are belittled. Janice especially enjoys the company of Gustav, her aunt’s servant, who is often mistreated because of the color of his skin.
When a harrowing event forces Janice to take an unexpected journey, doors are opened and opportunities are revealed. As Janice navigates school years of both triumphant and tragic times, helps with the war effort and makes both friends and enemies, her dark past lurks in the shadows.
When Janice accepts a position to teach a precocious and rambunctious little girl who is also blind, the malevolent events of her past prove to have shocking connections with her brusque and mysterious employer. Hidden passions, danger and self-discovery await in this account of a strong woman who will stop at nothing to protect the ones she has grown to love. Yet true love often means letting go. A story of confronting adversity, hidden secrets and forbidden love, Janice Everet will make you see Charlotte Bronte’s classic with new eyes.
This book is the adult debut of the author. The story contains mature sexual content as well as some mild profanity.
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