As part of this year's Pride Series, I'm revisiting my conversation with author Michael Reed about his novel Desperate Measures.Michael joins me to discuss the inspiration behind the book, his move from Alaska to West Virginia, and how the landscapes, folklore, and culture of Appalachia shaped the story. We talk about the creation of Joey and Rhonda, the complicated relationships at the heart of the novel, and the challenge of balancing survival, suspense, and emotional truth on the page.Our conversation also explores identity, belonging, and the ways personal experience can inform fiction without defining it. It's a thoughtful discussion about storytelling, resilience, and the people who stay with us long after we finish a book.Whether you're discovering Michael's work for the first time or revisiting this episode with me, I hope you enjoy this special Pride Series encore presentation of Quills & Chills.Find out more about Michael Reed & DESPERATE MEASURES online:rattlinggoodyarns.comFollow Quills & Chills on social:IG: @quillsandchillsBluesky: @quillsandchills.bsky.socialYOUTUBE: @quillsandchillspodcast