Women’s fiction author Monica Garner is back with a summer read sure to fuel your black fiction addiction. I recently spoke with her about Sunset Over Napa Valley.
Tell me about your latest book.
Longtime friends Remi and Bianca, along with their two college-aged daughters head to Napa Valley for the summer. Remi is grieving and needs to gather herself after the death of her husband of 25 years, and plans to spread his ashes along the Sonoma coast. Instead, she finds herself uncovering a secret that shakes her to her very core—causes her to question everything she thought she knew about her life and the people in it. All the while, Bianca’s life has been turned upside down, and she needs her friend to help her turn it right side up, but Remi isn’t so anxious to help. The secret she’s uncovered is one that threatens to tear their longtime friendship apart…forever.
Why did you decide to write it?
I decided to write this story because I’ve always been drawn to stories about sisterhood. Mostly because I have some great sister friends in my life. I believe it’s important to explore the complexities of those relationships—the love, the tension, and everything in between. Sometimes those bonds are tested, but through the difficult moments, we learn how to navigate our tough challenges and practice forgiveness. Ultimately, we learn to heal what’s been broken in our lives.
Who is your favorite character in the book and why?
I really loved Leo, a supporting character who subtly becomes essential to the story. He appears at a time when Remi (the protagonist) needs a friend the most, and he shows up for her without hesitation. What I love most about him is that he offers genuine friendship without expecting anything in return, which makes his presence both comforting and impactful.
What was the hardest part about writing the story?
The hardest part of writing the story was developing the character Bianca, the protagonist’s closest friend, who is battling cancer. Her illness had once gone into remission, only to return—something that made the process especially difficult for me. I lost my mother to cancer, so writing Bianca’s journey brought me back to a very dark and emotional place in my life. It was triggering, even for me as the author, so I want readers to be aware that the story may contain some emotional triggers.
If you were to write a book about your life, what would be the title and why?
If I were to write a book about my life, the title would be Overcoming. It’s been a long journey marked by great challenges—personal, familial, and professional. Along the way, I’ve gained a great deal of wisdom, the kind I believe the younger generation could benefit from. One of these days, I might write my story.
What would you tell your 16-year-old self?
Most of what you’re stressing about won’t matter in ten years, twenty years, thirty years. Everything seems so permanent at sixteen—friendships, relationships, circumstances. I promise, it all changes over time. Focus on being present in this moment of your life. Make the most of it. Learn to be more vocal and fearless. Learn to dance, too—because I can’t dance a lick. Lol. At least learn how to two-step.
What is something readers would be surprised to know about you?
That I can cook! I regret not going to culinary school. That, when I was growing up, I wanted to be an attorney. That I worked for federal government for 38 years before retiring last year.
Tell me about a book that changed your life and why.
When I read I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, I realized I wanted to become a writer. It was the first book I had ever read by a Black author, and it left a lasting impression on me. Not only was it a powerful story, but it also inspired me deeply. It showed me that I, too, could write books.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently working on a historical piece and a Christmas story. I have a deep love for women’s fiction and plan to continue writing stories that inspire women to embrace the fullest version of themselves.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Nothing more to add. I think we’ve covered it all.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction link to purchase your copy of Sunset Over Napa Valley by Monica Garner.
To learn more about Monica Garner, author of women’s fiction, visit her website (Monica-writes.com) or connect with her on various social media platforms: Linktr.ee/monicagarner.writes