Q Nina learns to find peace and hope in her life and her relationships. What would you say to a reader who might be struggling to find that same peace and hope?
There’s a place in the book where Nina’s mother tells her to “let go.” Pardon my getting very personal, but for me, the ability to let go and find peace is found in my relationship with Jesus. I turn to Him for everything from lost keys to surviving personal devastation. Things don’t always turn out the way I want them to, but I am able to be at peace because He’s with me.
I find hope in knowing that it’s not my job to control the turnings of the world. Someone with a better understanding than I have is running the show. My hope is found in Jesus and in the knowledge of His love. I would tell readers to reach out for help when you need it. You are not alone. God is with you.
Q You’ve written both short fiction and novels. How do you decide which format to use for your stories? Do you find one length easier to write than the other?
I joke that I have two word counts—either 1,000 words or 100,000. I don’t decide on the length, the characters do. I always aim to tell the whole story when I start out, and sometimes as that 1,000-word mark approaches, I know that I’ve told all those characters needed me to tell. But sometimes I know I haven’t, and in those cases, I take a breath and stare off into space for a moment while the reality sinks in, and then I say to them, “Ok, guys, here we go,” and I start a new novel.
Q Fast Five Favorites!
Favorite book: Could I get an easier question, like “What is the meaning of life?” I’ve been in love with so many books, I couldn’t narrow it down to just one, and the answer would change in a month anyway. I will say that the book I’ve read the most number of times is Hula by Lisa Shea. It’s the first book I fell in love with as a grown-up reader.
Favorite movie: Too many to name! My husband can attest that I will watch the same movie over and over until I can practically recite it. I love stories no matter what form they are in. I’m a sucker for a romantic dramedy, especially if it’s heavy on character and relationships. But no jump scares, please, my startle reflex is too strong and I don’t want to knock over my snacks.
Favorite food: Sushi. (Wow, I answered that in one word!)
Favorite place to vacation: Pioneer Park, Lake Michigan. I grew up in Kure Beach, North Carolina, and now live in Asheville, North Carolina, so I’ve been blessed to live every day in vacation spots. Lake Michigan is beautiful, but it’s my favorite because it’s a week-long campout with family. Each year, relatives that I don’t see often enough meet there for a reunion. Campfires, cookouts, gorgeous sunsets and all day to relax with family—my favorite.
Favorite thing to do besides write: Cook. No, eat. No, definitely cook—that way I can share. I really want to learn how to make sushi, and when I do, I’m inviting you all over for dinner!
About the Author
Amy Willoughby-Burle is a writer and teacher living in Asheville, North Carolina, with her husband and four children. She writes about the mystery and wonder of everyday life. Her contemporary fiction focuses on the themes of second chances, redemption, and finding the beauty in the world around us. She is the author of a collection of short stories entitled Out across the Nowhere and a contributor to the anthology Of Mist and Magic. Visit her at amywilloughbyburle.com.
