Author Renee Daniel Flagler knows some journeys can change your life. I recently spoke with her about her latest release, Unlikely Neighbors.
Tell me about your latest release.
This is the story of both the male and female character’s journeys of discovery. Holland has a cancer scare, and it compels her to stop playing life safe and start really living. She doesn’t expect the twists and turns her journey takes. But her small-town life is upended when she inherits a brownstone in Brooklyn.
Why did you decide to write it?
There are so many nuances from life that found [their] way into this book from family members, history, and the desire to write a story with characters that had more depth, emotional and internal conflict.
What was your most memorable experience writing this book?
I used breast cancer as her catalyst because of my close friend’s recent journey with breast cancer. It was a way for me to pay homage and raise awareness about the BRCA gene.
Which character in the book would you like to have as a best friend and why?
Amy. She’s Holland’s (the FMC) cousin. She tells it like it is and is an example of what living boldly looked like for Holland.
What’s something readers would be surprised to learn about you?
Hmmmmmm. I feel like I’m private but an open book about the things I’m passionate about. My friends and followers pretty [much] know all there is to know. I love adventure. Maybe that’s new info.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
Travel, but the way my bank account is set up…LOL. When I’m not writing, I’m working, involved in various organizations and charities, doing community service, hanging with family and friends, and I’d rather be traveling but, then again…my bank account! LOL
What’s the most difficult part of being an author?
Writing may be the easiest part. Finding time is always a challenge, but what I find most difficult are all of the aspects of an author’s publishing journey that lie outside of an author’s control. Things like, securing agents, contracts, trends, getting significant support from your publishers and the culture of the industry in general. There are good things and bad. Navigating all of that can be really hard.
Who are some of your favorite authors, and what are some of their books you love?
I have so many. I’ll name a few, starting with my longest standing loves, Eric Jerome Dickey, Talita Tademy, Jesmyn Ward, and my friends, Victoria Christopher Murray, Tiffany L. Warren and ReShonda Tate.
What’s next for you?
More contemporary romance, some gritty contemporary fiction, and I have a historical-ish book in my heart that I started while I was in my MFA program.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I plan to be around for a long time. I’m coming for all the awards, lists and recognitions—God-willing.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Unlikely Neighbors by Renee Daniel Flagler.
To learn more about Renee Daniel Flagler, award-winning writer, connect with her on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reneedanielflagler/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReneeDanielFlagler