Writing Southern Women’s Fiction with Grace Helena Walz

This week in The Literary Lounge, author Grace Helena Walz discusses her latest novel, Pretty as a Peach, a Southern-set story about a group of lifelong friends whose relationships are put to the test when a suspicious multi-level marketing cosmetics company sweeps through their small Georgia town. Grace and Jennifer explore the complexities of family and friendship, what it means to be a Southern woman, and why the South continues to inspire Grace’s storytelling. Grace also shares the remarkable story behind her path to publication, including the rejections that nearly made her walk away, and the perseverance that ultimately led to her first book deal. It’s a conversation anyone pursuing a creative dream needs to hear.   In This EpisodeThe inspiration behind Pretty as a Peach The culture of multi-level marketing companies Lifelong friendships, found family, and belonging Family expectations, secrets, and complicated relationships Why the South continues to inspire Grace’s storytelling Writing Southern women with grace and grit  Finding the joy of writing during early motherhood The rejections that led to her first “yes”Balancing motherhood and a writing career What living a creative life means to Grace Meet Grace Helena Walz Grace Helena Walz is a former social worker who writes heartfelt book club fiction with Southern settings and characters you'll want as friends. Her titles include Southern by Design and Good Hair Days. Grace resides outside of Atlanta, GA with her husband and two children and writes in the moments between driving carpool and making grocery lists. Pretty as a Peach is her third novel. Connect with GraceInstagram: @gracehelenabooksWebsite:  www.gracehelenawalz.com Purchase a copy of Pretty as a PeachBooks & Authors MentionedDorothea Benton FrankSouthern By Design by Grace Helena Walz Good Hair Days by Grace Helena Walz STAY CONNECTED The Literary LoungeFollow and subscribe to The Literary Lounge wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss a new conversation. Continue the conversation by subscribing to The Literary Lounge on Substack, delivered every Sunday and featuring:The Guest Book (extended guest Q&A)The Bookshop (a featured independent bookstore) Recommended readsLiterary discoveries and behind-the-scenes updates Instagram: @theliterarylounge.co Jennifer CashHost, Creator, Producer & Editor of The Literary Lounge Instagram: @readwithjennifer