When Characters Talk Back: Carol Hoenig on Writing Fiction That Comes to Life

Carol Hoenig published her first novel in 2005. Years later, while driving home from work, one of her characters suddenly returned, insisting to Carol that her story wasn’t finished. That unexpected moment sparked a new novel about the character's story. In this episode, Carol reflects on her creative process, the career pivots that shaped her path, and the moments when fictional characters come to life. I was leaving work and I'm driving home. I'm on Sunrise Highway, and Grace, a character from my first novel, Without Grace, said to me "They don't know why I really left." Hear Carol talk about: • The day her character, Grace, let her know there was more to the story • Starting her business the same day she lost her job at Borders • How her characters speak to her and sometimes surprise her • The creative process behind Without Grace and Before She Was a Finley • Why honoring the craft of writing mattersMentioned in this episode:Without Grace by Carol HoenigBefore She Was a Finley by Carol HoenigHer episode of My Hometown on 90.3 WHPCLearn more about Carol on her websiteWatch Carol's podcast, Wildflowers Podcast: Books, Booze and Banter, on YouTubeSupport this podcast:Follow in your favorite podcast appLeave a rating and reviewShare with a friend and on social media and tag @rainemediaco