Her Turn received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author Allison Jones.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
The name of my book is Her Turn and the release date was January 21, 2021
What’s the book’s first line?
The first line in the book is “The doctors say it won’t be long, but my mother is stubborn.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
The book centers around Addie Snyder, a forty-something woman, who bursts on the literary scene with her debut novel. Unprepared for the limelight, she does her best to shelter her brother, Owen who has Down syndrome along with bantering with her grumpy publicist Jameson Ford. Her life becomes even more complicated when her long-lost father reappears along with distant relatives trying to ride her coattails.. Addie maintains her humor by popping chocolate kisses as if they were Xanax, and seeking solace behind her computer creating stories that fill her soul. Even though all of her dreams are coming true, no one can prepare her for what lies ahead. It’s true what they say, be careful what you wish for.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
My inspiration lies primarily in creating a story with characters who are relatable yet might have a hard time finding their place. I think it is important that the characters show their humanness but also not take themselves so seriously. While it is a romantic comedy, I wanted Addie to have her own metamorphosis that results in her becoming this strong, confident woman despite all the chaos that seems to surrounds her. I also love being able to give centerstage to an individual with Down syndrome. It’s a tribute to my 25-year-old son, Bailey who inspires me everyday and doesn’t allow his diagnosis of Down syndrome to define him.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
I think the reason someone should read Her Turn is the opportunity to read a story with a cast of unlikely individuals who find themselves becoming an unconventional family. There are lots of laughs and plenty of tears, but at the end of the book, readers will be cheering for this quirky cast of characters.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
The most distinctive quality of Addie is her unwavering love and devotion to her brother Owen. Keep in mind, Addie has been his guardian/advocate for years, She is fearless in that area, but fearful in the outside realm. I suppose there is a little of me in her. I am a fearless advocate for Bailey, but stepping outside of my comfort zone can be intimidating.
What’s a great piece of advice that you can share with fellow indie authors?
The best piece of advice that I can offer other writers, is to have a great support system. People that you can trust to tell you, honestly, what is working or not working with your writing. For this book, I had an accountability partner who really kept me on task.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
I admire many writers, but my fan favorites are Avery Flynn, Lucy Score, and LJ Shen. Seriously, they inspire me!