Ae Fond Kiss received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author Joan Donaldson.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
Ae Fond Kiss published by Black Rose Writing, January 9,th 2025. The title comes from a song by Robert Burns.
What’s the book’s first line?
Steam billowed, and the train whistle shrieked, as the locomotive pulled away from Sedgemore.
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
Lizzie and William share their grief and renew their joy as they encourage community spirit in a utopian settlement.
What inspired you to write the book?
In 2015, my son who served in the Army and deployed to Afghanistan returned home with PTSD and took his life, leaving a widow and three young daughters. I volunteer as a Peer Mentor with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors and have witnessed the power of helping another person move through their grief journey. I deeply believe in nurturing a spirit of community and in equal rights for women practiced in the Rugby settlement.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
Folks should read my novel, so they understand grieving people, and the need to build strong communities, and good educational opportunities for everyone.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character?
Lizzie and William appreciate their second chances to rebuild their lives and they embrace the bonds of a strong community.
When did you first decide to become an author?
About age 6, I wrote my first poem.
Is this the first book you’ve written?
No, this is my fourth novel.
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
My husband and I are organic blueberry farmers.
How much time do you generally spend on your writing?
I try to write two hours a day except during the summer when I manage our you-pick or pack blueberries.
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
Encouraging myself to continue writing even if my novels are not best sellers.
What’s a great piece of advice that you can share with fellow indie authors?
You need a community of writers to read your work and encourage you along the path.
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling?
Yes. My first two novels were published by a traditional house and the next two by a small independent press. I also have a literary agent.
Is there something in particular that motivates you?
Justice. I want people to read my stories and think about how we can make this world a more justice place for all folks.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
Bonnie Jo Campbell whom I am lucky enough to call my friend!
Which book do you wish you could have written?
The Waters by Bonnie Jo Campbell.