Author Pat Simmons is tackling a tough topic with compassion. I’m excited to have her visit Black Fiction Addiction today to talk about her latest book, Here for You.
Tell me about your latest book.
Here for You is Book 2 in the Family is Forever series about three sisters who make a pact to care for their great-aunt who is suffering with dementia. Caregiving means different things to different people. It’s not always an elderly relative, so I wanted my character to experience offering caregiving, but in a twist of fate, something happens that will cause anyone to say, “Life’s not fair” when she needs a caregiver. Rachel Knicely is socially active and professionally at the top of her game. She doesn’t know in the beginning that none of that matters when she is diagnosed with a life-altering condition. Her relationship with God is a journey. Nicholas, the hero, is a man of faith. His job is to pray for those who are sick and homebound. He never imagined that the woman he loved would test his faith in God. Then there is Mother Jenkins—nothing in life takes her by surprise. She has the biggest Bible and voice when it comes to her work for the Lord.
Why did you decide to write it?
Keeping in the caregivers theme, I wanted to give my readers a dose of “living in someone else’s shoes.”
Who is your favorite character in the book and why?
Of course, the hero, Nicholas, is memorable, but I like Mother Jenkins. Her over-the-top character reminds me of Grandma BB from my Jamieson Legacy series. The difference is Mother Jenkins is all about Jesus.
What was the hardest part about writing the story?
The research about Rachel’s medical condition. It kept freaking me out that I did several self-checks while writing.
If you were to write a book about your life, what would be the title and why?
Silly on the Outside, Half-Baked on the Inside. My personality can be funny, and that comes from a natural sense of humor passed down from my mother. Sometimes I see glimpses of that sense of humor in my daughter, but she will deny it—for good reason. On the inside, I really have no problem taking the backseat, because when it comes to my salvation, no one can beat me testifying about God’s goodness and what he has delivered me from in my life—miracles, healing, spiritual victories.
What is something readers would be surprised to know about you?
With a news background and public speaking, I don’t like to read aloud in fear that I’ll mispronounce words. My secret is out.
Tell me about a book that changed your life and why.
Wow, there are so many for different reasons. If I had to pick one, it would be His Needs, Her Needs. I purchased the book as research for my novella, The Keepsake, but it was so eye-opening about relationships that I make sure every married couple gets one included in their gifts.
What’s next for you?
I’m working on my annual Christmas story that was supposed to be a novella, but with the word count, Christmas Dinner is now a small novel.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I don’t take it for granted that I’m the preferred author of choice for readers, so I appreciate when they pick my books to read. Thank you. I hope readers will continue to support my writing ministry and tell others, so that the Word of God can reach those who are hurting.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Here for You by Pat Simmons.
To learn more about Pat Simmons, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
https://www.facebook.com/theguiltyseries
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