Author Michelle Davis-Newell has returned to a familiar place for her latest release. I recently spoke with her about In Search of Autumn.
Tell me about your latest book.
In Search of Autumn is the sequel to The Bag Ladies of Ebondale. The story centers on Autumn Gardener, a newly divorced single mom who, after losing her lucrative marketing job, reluctantly retreats to her hometown of Ebondale. She fled the community years ago when it was at its absolute worst following a tragic loss, but she finds that the neighborhood—and the people in it—have changed.
As Autumn navigates the messy reality of dating post-divorce, she realizes healing isn’t a straight line. She’s forced to face old guilt and grief, all while handling a major curveball: catching feelings for her childhood best friend, whose connection to her past tragedy makes everything complicated.
Why did you decide to write it?
I wrote this book to double down on the themes of healing and sisterhood that started in The Bag Ladies, while specifically shining a light on the positive impact of therapy. By introducing a fresh protagonist instead of relying on the original cast, I was able to show a different perspective on Ebondale’s history. I wanted to explore how the changes in the neighborhood mirror the growth of its residents. Ultimately, Ebondale is more than a backdrop—it is a character in itself.
What do you want readers to learn from the story?
I want readers to witness the reality of rebuilding a life after emotional abuse—navigating motherhood, dating, and the messy dynamics of falling in love again.
Most importantly, I want to highlight that therapy is a balm that looks different for everyone. It’s not limited to sitting on a clinician’s couch; healing also happens through community, vulnerability, and the power of laughter. If this story can help break down the stigma around seeking help, then I’ve done my job.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I fell in love with the written word as a little girl, sneaking my mother’s Harlequin Romance novels and mystery series. Those books stirred a desire in me, and by age eight, I was writing my own short stories.
When I was ten—this was back in 1980, so there were no computers—I actually hand-wrote a short story and mailed it to Harlequin. I received a rejection letter, but instead of discouraging me, it fueled my fire. It made me feel like a real writer. No matter where my career has taken me since, that passion has never ebbed.
If you could pick another profession, what would it be and why?
I’m going to cheat a little on this answer—my ultimate goal is simply to turn my part-time passion for writing into my full-time career. I want to wake up and write every day.
But if I had to switch lanes entirely? Put me on a film set! I would love to work in the industry as a screenwriter or producer. Whether it’s books or movies, I am in love with the world of creative expression and the magic of bringing stories to life.
What’s the best part of being an author?
It’s the creativity for me. I love having the freedom to channel my imagination into a narrative that others can enjoy. But beyond the actual writing, the best part is when readers truly “get it.”
It is that moment when they understand a character’s arc and feel a genuine connection to the struggle. My goal is always to write characters that feel real, so when I see that the story resonates with a reader, it is the ultimate reward.
What’s the worst part of being an author?
I’ll be brutally honest: It’s the struggle to be seen. The publishing industry has historically been gatekept, and while the rise of indie publishing is amazing, the market is now incredibly saturated.
Sometimes it feels like you’re swimming in a vast ocean, trying to carve out your own identity without blending in with every other fish in the sea. But when writing is in your DNA, as it is for me, giving up isn’t an option. Even when the goal of doing this full-time feels far away, the passion keeps me swimming.
What books have you read lately and loved, and what books are you looking forward to reading?
To be honest, balancing a corporate career with writing and writing/editing my own novels means my free time is limited. Since my day job requires so much reading, I have to be intentional about what I pick up for fun.
However, I make it a priority to support fellow indie authors whenever I can. Right now, I am reading Vampire Uprising by Blk Qween, and I’m eager to finish it. My “to be read” pile is growing, though! I am really looking forward to diving into Hook an Angel by Kimberly Wesley, The Ink Slinger by Martina Sneed, and Awakening by J. Ross, just to name a few.
What’s next for you?
I am all about growth. Currently, I am writing the third book in the Ebondale Collection, but I have a five-year plan to expand my portfolio into fantasy, romance, and even a little sci-fi.
Beyond my own writing, I’m focused on my publishing company. I started it to maintain ownership of my intellectual property, but the vision is to open the doors to other authors within two years. My mission is to be a champion for the indie community, specifically ensuring that authors of color have a platform and a voice.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I am truly humbled and grateful for the opportunity to introduce myself and my work to your audience. I have so much appreciation for anyone who takes the time to champion indie authors and give us a voice. Thank you for the space, and for the work you do!
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of In Search of Autumn by Michelle Davis-Newell.
To learn more about author Michelle Davis-Newell, visit her website or visit her other links.
Website: www.michelledavisnewell.com
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/michelledavisnewell