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Moving Forward
The Space Between Dreaming follows two women struggling to have a family of their own who meet at an art gallery and form an unlikely friendship. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had always wanted to write a story that featured strong friendships that was perhaps a bit unexpected. I decided to do this through friendships that spanned different generations and different circumstances as a way to show the strength we gain from women who are in our corner. Since I’m also an artist, I took a lot of inspiration from my own experience in showing in galleries and working at art fairs.
Grace and Jane are both relatable characters that readers are drawn to and want to help. Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters’ lives?
I used my real-life great-grandmother’s name for one of the characters, although the personality of the character is totally different. The character of Jane loves the Milwaukee Art Museum and has since she was a kid, which is something I took directly from my own life.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
My love of art and the power of expressing emotions through painting is something I wanted to convey. I wanted readers to feel how valuable the practice and appreciation of artistic endeavor can be in healing, decision-making, and everyday life. Also the theme of moving forward despite difficult circumstances was an important one to include. I wanted this to be an inspiring, hopeful book for someone to pick up.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I just released an art book called Poetry and Paint. It features my original paintings and poetry. I’m also working on another novel, but I don’t have a date for its release yet.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Grace and Jane both crave family but for much different reasons. Grace longs for the child she was never able to conceive and Jane for the new family she will have once she marries her boyfriend. They meet and become unlikely friends when Grace’s husband paints his masterpiece and Jane’s gallery represents him.
As they ponder their future, Jane’s meddling 80-year-old landlady helps them see the beauty in letting go of expectations. Grace and Jane each see something different in the painting, and it causes them to look beyond their stubborn dreams to a fresh reality that could hold the key to their happiness.
The Space Between Dreaming
Cherie Burbach’s The Space Between Dreaming intricately weaves the lives of two women, Grace and Jane, as they navigate life’s complex challenges. Grace grapples with the enduring pain of past abandonment and the unfulfilled dream of motherhood despite years of marriage. Meanwhile, Jane finds herself stuck in an uncommitted relationship marred by dishonesty, with little hope for the future. Their paths converge, leading to an extraordinary friendship that brings solace and strength through their shared love of art and the guidance of the delightful Mrs. Ferch.
This novel delves into the transformative power of friendships, addressing sensitive topics such as childlessness, addiction, and infidelity with a delicate and nuanced approach. For readers who cherish faith, the story subtly incorporates elements of belief while highlighting the importance of support systems in overcoming personal struggles. The emphasis on art, particularly painting, as a means of expression and healing, adds a unique and enriching dimension to the narrative. As the story progresses, readers may find themselves wanting to reach out to the characters, guiding them toward clarity and resolution—a testament to Burbach’s skill in creating relatable and deeply engaging personas. Mrs. Ferch, in particular, stands out with her blunt honesty, providing the necessary push for the characters’ transformation. The novel begins with a slow-paced exploration of Grace’s trauma, which might initially feel drawn out. However, the story soon gains momentum, leading to a hopeful and almost euphoric conclusion. The strength of this book lies in its quiet, reflective moments and the emotional depth of its narrative. Burbach’s straightforward prose invites readers into the characters’ inner lives without overwhelming them.
The Space Between Dreaming is a warm and thought-provoking read. It’s a true page-turner for those who believe in faith and hope, or for anyone seeking inspiration to break free from the mundane aspects of their daily lives.
Pages: 384 | ASIN : B0BSVGB9PH
LITERARY TITAN 