On this episode of Book Talk, I have the pleasure of introducing you to author Holly Varni. She carries a joy that is effervescent and carries through in our conversation. Holly writes books that might remind you of Jan Karon's Mitford series because of the small-town setting and strong sense of community. She also has strong senior citizens who bring their wit and wisdom to the young characters who need their help whether or not the younger characters realize it yet. When she started writing, it was to create simpler stories of joy and community for her mother, who was going through chemotherapy. As a hospice volunteer, Holly would also read her stories to these patients, and when the families would call and ask her to come on her off days to share the next segment of the story, she knew they were accomplishing shat she hoped because you can focus on agony and curiosity at the same time.

When she's writing, Holly is going for a laugh and smile which means the stories tip toward the ridiculous in a way that readers love. Her characters are forming community and family in the way that we all long for. She also creates strong female leads that have a unique strength. In The Blooming of Delphinium, it's a sweet strength that allows Delphinium to see the heart of people's character in a way others can't. I don't want to spoil it for you, so I won't say more. 🙂

Her advice to writers (and her younger author self) is to write for the joy of it. Writing is a sweet communion between her and the Holy Spirit, and if she were to lose that, it's time to stop. Writing has been a gift for her to cope with the challenges of life and it's been a sacred gift, she doesn't take lightly. She's got some fabulous writing advice that she shares as she talks about her journey to publication. I know you're going to enjoy our conversation and learning more about Holly and her books.

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