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Intuition Offers Key Guidance

What the Heart Knows follows an artist from a privileged background who moves to a small town on a journey of self-discovery and to find purpose in her life. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The basic journey of self-discovery is based on my own experience, but I also have observed this same arc for others. Our culture tends to emphasize logic, AKA “head” information, as being more legitimate than intuition, or “heart” information. Yet intuition offers key guidance if we can learn to listen for it. My protagonist’s specific journey, but also the theme of my book series, is “The Journey from Head to Heart.”

Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your character’s life?

Yes, and some are very specific. For example, I served as a crew member on a Greenpeace voyage to save whales, and so does my protagonist Miranda. I also grew up with privilege, and my parents were high achievers who expected the same of their two daughters. This is mirrored in my novels. It’s very powerful to “write what you know.”

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

The first is the “Heart” theme: in your heart of hearts, what did you always want to do? Are you doing it? If not, why not? If not now, when? This is echoed throughout all the storylines in the book. Some characters embrace their intuition and progress; others resist it.

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

What the Heart Knows is novel #1 in my series. Novel #2, Where the Heart Lives, and Novel #3, Why Hearts Keep Secrets, are already available. I’m working on Novel #4, Whose Hearts Align, which will be published in May 2024.

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Is the heart smarter than the head? Artist Miranda Jones begins to trust her heart enough to escape from her life of privilege and start over in Milford-Haven, the small town of undiscovered beauty on California’s Central Coast. She connects with environmentalist Samantha Hugo—a brilliant PhD twenty years her senior who gave up a son years earlier; and with restaurant owner Sally O’Mally who left Arkansas to create her own dream. Each woman wrestles with her own core issues while balancing demanding careers with the attentions of interesting men. None is aware that journalist Christine Christian has just been murdered while investigating a half-built house. Though the book stands alone, it is also Book 1 in the critically acclaimed, popular series, a multi-generational saga. Based on Purl’s BBC Radio drama Milford-Haven U.S.A.

Posted in Interviews

What the Heart Knows

Nov 30

Posted by Literary Titan

What the Heart Knows, by Mara Purl, offers a gentle narrative set in the serene town of Milford-Haven, California. Distinct from the bustling energy of Los Angeles, Milford-Haven is characterized by its tranquility and charm, making it an ideal backdrop for self-discovery and personal growth. The story primarily follows Miranda Jones, an artist who finds her identity and purpose in this quaint setting.

The book captivates from the start with a suspenseful prologue in which a reporter delves into a possibly illicit construction project, setting the stage for an unfolding mystery. The story then skillfully shifts to Miranda Jones in her art studio, introducing her as a key figure in a tapestry of intriguing characters. Although the narrative leaves room for further development of characters like Jack Sawyer and his ex-wife Samantha, their presence adds depth and intrigue. The initial mystery around the reporter’s death, while not fully resolved, serves as a compelling backdrop that enriches the overall narrative.

Purl’s writing style is fluid and accessible, effortlessly drawing readers into the world she crafts. Her attention to detail is particularly noteworthy, vividly painting scenes that come alive in the reader’s imagination. This aspect was especially appealing to me, as it allowed the narrative to unfold like a film in my mind. One of the intriguing aspects of What the Heart Knows is its diverse cast of characters. As a fan of the rich ensembles found in science fiction and fantasy, I appreciated the variety of personalities in this story. Among them, Miranda and Zack stand out as particularly engaging, and the subtle tension involving Cynthia adds an interesting dynamic. Although I believe these relationships and plotlines offer room for further exploration, they contribute to the novel’s rich tapestry and keep the reader engaged with their potential.

What the Heart Knows is a well-written, sweet story set in an idyllic town. It presents a tapestry of characters and a hint of mystery, but I feel the narrative could benefit from a more focused exploration of fewer characters and a clearer resolution of its central mysteries. Despite these elements, the book offers an enjoyable journey into a world of introspection and artistic discovery.

Pages: 332 | ASIN : B077HRPHP5