Tell me a little about your research process. I’ve not felt that type of passion for anything other than writing.ĬB: Your books seem so well researched. I just always knew that being an author was in my future and I was willing to chase that dream until I took my last breath. Did the dream of writing stay with you or did it wax and wane? What was the linchpin for becoming an author?īLM: Did I feel defeated at times? Absolutely! But something in me wouldn’t allow me to give up on my dream. But If I had to, I guess it would be “The Warmest December” because I poured so much of my personal life into it.ĬB: I’ve read both that you knew at age 9 that you wanted to be a writer and that you went through a mill of unfulfilling jobs as an adult. Any other literature I consume has to do with whatever I’m working on at the time.ĬB: I suspect that your books are your babies, so this may not be a kosher question, but… do you have a favorite? One that holds a special place in your heart?īLM: Yes, they are all my babies and it’s difficult to chose one. Borders IVĬB: Are you able to read for pleasure when you are writing, or do you find you have to shut out outside voices?īLM : When I’m writing I read poetry for pleasure and inspiration. Both writers have had a significant influence on my work.ĬB: What is on your bedside table to be read right now?īLM : I’m reading a few things in rotation: “ The Fire This Time” edited by Jesmyn Ward, “ Here Comes the Sun” by Nicole Dennis Benn “ Marking Time Making Place (An essential chronology of Blacks in New Orleans since 1718)” edited by James B.

McFadden : Yes! I read everything Toni Morrison publishes. Do you have authors whose full catalog you devour (or aspire to devour)?īernice L. Recently, I was fortunate enough to meet Bernice at a Black History Month event, after which she agreed to answer a few questions.Ĭhronic Bibliophilia: You have definitely ensconced yourself on my “Must Read Everything” shelf. I have become a huge fan of McFadden’s writing, which is intimate, impactful, and truly beautiful.

In addition, she has published five steamy novels under her pen-name Geneva Holliday. In a relatively short but breathtakingly prolific career, she has published ten critically acclaimed novels under her own name, including her first novel, “ Sugar“, and her latest novel, “ The Book of Harlan“, which won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work, Fiction.

McFadden is an amazingly talented and hardworking writer.

Bernice mcfadden books