What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Midnight at the Back Gate (Book 1 in the Back Gate & Beyond Series)?
It started with a question: What happens when the “help” at a luxury community sees too much? Kelly Chowder was born from that spark. She’s tough, guarded, and working the back gate while the elite toast with champagne for breakfast. I wanted to explore power, poverty, and the cost of hiding your pain behind a uniform.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Midnight at the Back Gate (Book 1 in the Back Gate & Beyond Series), what would they be?
• Kelly Chowder: “Control” by Halsey – she’s holding it together for as long as she can.
• Mac McKinsey: “Human” by Rag’n’Bone Man – military edge, big heart, carrying a past.
• Lillian Carter: “Confident” by Demi Lovato – glam, chaotic, and dangerously charming.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I love reading modern women’s fiction with edge; stories about messy, strong, imperfect women. And yes, it’s exactly what I love to write. Throw in a little suspense and a good slow-burn romance, and I’m hooked.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
• The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
• The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
• Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
• Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus.
And let’s be honest, ten more queued up behind them.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
The one where Kelly performs CPR on the unconscious doctor at the back gate. She’s terrified, running on instinct, and doesn’t yet know she just altered her entire path. It’s the moment she stops surviving and starts showing up for her own life.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Always coffee gone cold in a mug with my initials. Bonus points if I’m wearing fuzzy socks. I write best late at night, a single light at my desk, in complete silence.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
“Speak your truth, even when your voice shakes.” Especially true for fiction.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That the past doesn’t get to define you. You do. Even if your hands are still shaking when you take your first brave step forward. Life is full of second chances. Give them and you’ll get them.
Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.