Interview with author Amy Harmon

1 – Have you always wanted to be a writer?

Yes – it has always been my gift and my favorite creative outlet. I have been writing to express myself all my life, but didn’t actually write my first, full-length novel until I was in my thirties.  

2 – When you start a series of books – do you know in advance who the couples who will appear in the following books will be? Do you know what the plot will be?

Yes, I know my main characters quite well in advance and I have a fairly good idea of plot, but there are always surprises.

3 – Did you write a book and decide not to publish it?

I have no unfinished manuscripts (except the one I am currently working on) and no unpublished manuscripts. I have learned to finish what I start when it comes to writing.

4 – Is there a topic you will never write about? If so, what is it?

I’m not sure. I have deep respect and reverence for spiritual things, so I can’t imagine writing something that would leave darkness in its wake. I want to make the world brighter and more hopeful, so it is what I tend to focus on.

5 – By what do you choose a cover for a book?

My publishers choose the covers, but if I am lucky I get to add my input.

6 – Where did you get the inspiration for the stories? 

Inspiration comes from everywhere. I try to write about things that grip me and don’t let go. The ideas that stick and grow in me. If I am not passionate about a story, I can’t imagine writing it.

7 – Who is your favorite couple you wrote about? 

I don’t have a favorite. Each book is too personal and each book has taken so much effort. I fall in love with my characters and choosing would feel like a betrayal.

8 – How long does it take you to write one book?

It depends, but I usually need at least six months.

9 – What is your favorite genre to read?

I love historical fiction, but I also love fantasy, which is probably why I have chosen to write both genres.

10 – Who are your favorite writers? 

I like different writers for different reasons. Some have great wisdom. Some have great imaginations. Some are extremely clever. I tend to still love the writers I grew up reading the very most, writers like LM Montgomery, Beverly Clearly, Judy Blume and Louis L’Amour. But I also love Dean Koontz and Paullina Simons and CS Lewis. The list is long.  

11- If you could turn one of your books into a movie – which book would you choose?

I would love to see What the Wind Knows on the screen. What a glorious thing that would be!