Author Zelda Oliver-Miles is no stranger to writing, but she’s stepping into new territory with her debut fiction release. I recently spoke with her about The Weigh of Silence.
Tell me about your latest book.
The Weight of Silence is a deeply emotional story about resilience, family, and the secrets that can either bind us or set us free. It’s a character-driven narrative that explores how silence, often a coping mechanism, can weigh us down until we confront it. Readers will find themes of healing, faith, and finding unexpected strength woven throughout the story.
Why did you decide to write it?
This book has been over 20 years in the making. I started it as a way to process my own emotions and experiences. I put it aside, and every now and again, I’d pick it up and—being my own worst critic—I’d rewrite parts and put it away again. Last year, my husband said to me, “I really want to read that book you started all those years ago.” I looked at it, and God reminded me that I once asked Him to let me come home and write. So, I knew I had to get it done. The Weight of Silence became both a personal journey and a promise fulfilled.
Who is your favorite character in the book and why?
I love Zariyah, but Ms. Emma was my favorite. She reminds me of my mom and late grandmother—full of wisdom and love for anyone they think needs it. Her guidance is never forced upon you, just sprinkled here and there in a way that feels comforting and genuine. Writing her was like reconnecting with the strong, nurturing women in my life who always knew how to offer just the right amount of support and encouragement.
What was the hardest part about writing the story?
The hardest part was revisiting the theme of abuse and the internal vows people make as a way to protect themselves. Those moments required me to reflect deeply on emotional wounds and the impact they can have over time. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary to write a story that felt authentic and relatable.
If you were to write a book about your life, what would be the title and why?
It would be called Grace in the Shadows. Life hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve found grace even in the darkest moments. That grace has shaped who I am today.
What would you tell your 16-year-old self?
I’d tell her, “You’re stronger than you think, and the dreams that feel impossible now will one day come true. Keep writing, keep believing, and don’t be afraid to take up space in the world.”
What is something readers would be surprised to know about you?
I didn’t grow up reading Black authors—it wasn’t until college, when I took an Afro-American literature class, that I truly discovered the richness of our voices in literature, like Zora Neale Hurston and Ntozake Shange. That love inspired me to start a book club in the ’90s to make friends (I’m a bit of an ambivert!) and eventually host a Book Lovers Summit called Words Escape Me.
At the last summit, the late E. Lynn Harris was my featured guest. Years later, during a signing in Miami, he surprised me by stopping everything to talk to me. He remembered me, and that moment is something I’ll never forget.
Now, as I step into the fiction world as an author, I hope the authors I once hosted will remember me too—and welcome me to the fold.
Tell me about a book that changed your life and why.
J. California Cooper’s Some Love, Some Pain, Some Time changed my life. Her storytelling is so raw, honest, and beautifully layered. The way she captures the struggles and triumphs of everyday people inspired me to dig deeper into my own characters and write stories that resonate on a soul-deep level. Her work reminds me of the power of storytelling to connect us and to remind us of our own strength.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently working on the second book in the Breaking the Silence series. This next installment dives even deeper into the lives of these characters, exploring their struggles and triumphs in ways I hope readers will find just as captivating and moving.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Yes! The Weight of Silence is my debut novel and my official entrance into the fiction arena. I poured my heart into trying to tell a good story that resonates with readers. Of course, as with any first novel, there were moments of repetition and a bit of word overuse—something all writers can relate to! But I’m proud of the story I’ve created and grateful to share it with the world. Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey!
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of The Weight of Silence by Zelda Oliver-Miles.
To learn more about author, writing coach and creative entrepreneur Zelda Oliver-Miles, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Website: www.byzeldao.com
Social Media: Instagram/Facebook: @zeldaolivermiles or @zeldao