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I often get asked how the idea for a book comes about, so I thought I’d share a little bit about this sometimes painful, always unpredictable, adventure with you.
The inspiration for my new novel Lacewood began very innocently. I started noticing sycamore trees while driving to work. Of course I’d passed them hundreds of times before, but suddenly they became the focus of my attention. They seemed to be everywhere, stretching their ivory white limbs into the blue sky.
Most people would ignore this sudden infatuation, but being a writer, I knew it was the prodding of my writing angel (that’s what I call her)—and I don’t ignore the writing angel.
After doing some research, I discovered that sycamores have quite a history—all the way from the Bible to the American Civil War. In fact, a 168-year-old sycamore tree is credited with sheltering a large group of soldiers during the Battle of Brandywine. And in 1792, beneath the limbs of a sycamore (buttonwood) tree, the Buttonwood Agreement was signed, establishing the parameters for the future New York Stock Exchange.
I also stumbled across a reference that referred to sycamore trees as lacewood. (A term no longer in vogue, and that now refers to a tree from Australia).
Lacewood sounded beautiful . . . like the title of a novel. This was wonderful news, because I usually struggle with a book’s title long after it is completed. The bad news was . . . that’s all I had.
Staring at a blank computer screen brought to mind the image of a house beyond a gate that was deserted for some reason. I decided the house must have secrets—but I had no idea what they were. From the beginning, I envisioned a portrait on the wall with a second portrait missing. Unfortunately my writing angel didn’t tell me who the portraits were of or why one was missing.
As I began to create the main character, I knew she also had secrets—but, of course, it would be too easy if I actually knew what they were. Right? In fact, I thought at first that Katie was running from something, or was trying to hide from a crime or a person. Only after many months of writing did I discover she was actually just trying to find herself.
I also knew from the beginning that the hometown hero, Will, was a man with a past he wanted to forget. I had no clue as to what he wanted to forget or why until writing a chapter about a thunderstorm, when it all came spilling out.
That’s how my novels unfold. The characters tell me what’s going to happen next—not the other way around.
There are two other things I’d like to share. Number one, I’m a tree hugger—or more accurately, a tree toucher. Meaning, that when I see a grand, old tree, I have to touch it. I have to put my palm on the bark, close my eyes, and let its energy, its history, soak into me.
Number two, I bought a 200-year-old house when I was in my 30s. I searched for years for a house way off the road, and finally found one hidden enough that many of the locals don’t even know it’s there. After doing some research, I discovered it was owned by a Revolutionary War captain, whose family was among the original founders of the town of Gettysburg and surrounding county.
Many years later, while visiting a local cemetery, I noticed the last name of the former owner listed as a middle name of one of my ancestors. Lo and behold, I soon discovered that my grandmother’s kin married this man’s kin, so that this wonderful house that took me so long to find belonged to someone in my own past.
Random chance? Or grand design?
I hope readers of Lacewood wonder that too. And I hope they get a sense that the past is never far away from our present . . . that when they walk into an old house, or see a falling down barn, or pass a crumbling stone wall—they think about it. Who built it? When? What secrets could it share?
I didn’t plan it this way, but I think my struggle to bring Lacewood to life is somewhat reflected in the main character’s struggle. Katie thought her life was a haphazard sequence of events that made no sense . . . when there was really a plan all along.
That’s what I learned on my writing journey—to TRUST in the plan even if I don’t understand it.
Oh, and one other thing . . . Lacewood is all about piecing together a forgotten history.
History should never be forgotten.
Sounds interesting. Fate or something like it directed you to that house. God bless and take ❤ care. Good luck with your writing.
I, too, have a history in many parts of the country of my ancestors and have shared with my history class and my family as I search out the history of my family. What brave men and women came before us.
Thanks for sharing history with others! One of the most important things you can do!
My late husband & I had a home that sat on land that was against a creek which after 2 hours by canoe led us to the lake in our area.We would often go up this creek in thru a marshy area where the wild life was abundant. So calming & beautiful with the branches of old trees dipping down around us. Made one feel like we were travelling down the Amazon. How I miss these times now. Anyways it was part of the waterways the pioneers use to travel from one village to another to grist mills & such in the by gone years. As we would enjoy our day trips I often use to say to my husband that “if only this creek & lake & land could talk, what a story they would tell.” I often had times when I wished I had lived back then just to hear their stories. The past history of our land fascinates me. Like you said about the past & the present, I often feel like I have someway experienced the history of this place. Looking forward to reading Lacewood.
I can picture everything perfectly from your description. It would be amazing to travel back in time!
Lived in an old homestead where my Dad grew up and his dad, part was lot cabin added on over the years. But, in 1984 fire broke out from outdated wiring. My parents
Lived 20 plus miles from a firestation, and they didn’t bring any water! Knowing that there wasn’t any wateretc.. They left with the fire engulf, woods, around, and my sister’s house On the same land ! Glad you found your ancestors home!
What a great loss…in memories alone, I’m sure! I can’t imagine losing something so valuable.
Hi,
Just wanted to share a fact about the sycamore. My dad was from the middle east. Any time he saw a sycamore seedling taking hold he would rip it out. He called them “filthy” trees but did not cut down grown trees. He finally told me why that was. The sycamore is used to harbor and feed pigs in the middle east so it’s association makes it too dirty to even touch. Composting in the dry climate is not ideal so pigs were needed to rid households of food scraps, weeds, etc… As a devout Christian, his favorite story was of the tax collector (not a welcomed or popular person) who lowered himself even further by climbing a “filthy” sycamore just to see Christ pass. Every time I see a grown sycamore tree I think of my dad and of the tax collector’s story.
Very interesting! Thank you for sharing!
Fascinating… I lived on Smith Dr. in Cleveland, TN as a child. Years later, married and kids grown, husband and I returned to visit my childhood home and found a street with my married name two blocks away. We took a picture of the street sign to send to our kids. I believe life happens the way it does for a reason. I look forward to reading Lacewood!
Great story! Fate strikes again.
Thank you so much for sharing! My starters are my dreams. Very vibrant and in full color. Unfortunately, they always seem to be the middle of the story. Then I have to write the beginning and the end. (I can never find the title as well). I’ve never published them. All the publishers I’ve talked to want me to pay them. I’m trying to learn how to self publish, it’s so daunting! Anyway thanks for listening. I love your books!
People are always surprised to hear that not all authors sit down and write chapter 1, 2, 3, etc. Instead, everything has to be pieced together.
And yes, self-publishing is very daunting and ever-changing. Good luck with getting your stories out there!
I enjoyed reading of your inspiration for ‘LACEWOOD’ and have experienced something similar. May your success continue!
Thank you!
I loved the book and has inspired me to go search for a sycamore tree for me❤️
I can’t wait to see mine in a few years. It’s only about 6 feet tall right now!
Jessica,
I recently read “Lacewood” and really enjoyed it. I thought the title was lovely as well. The premise was fresh and drew me right in, and as the characters grew and the mystery unfolded, it was compelling all the way.
Fantastic book. Thank you.
Thanks so much! That’s very nice to hear!