Interview with Gail Combs Oglesby, Author of Till I Come Home

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Till I Come Home?

For over 40 years I have done genealogy work for my family and for others. Over these many years I’ve learned so much about the lives of our ancestors, especially the women who endured so much. I felt strongly that the stories of these women need to be told, need to be given the attention they deserve so I began writing this series of books.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I love to read history, even books that many would consider to be “text books”. History has been my go to for many, many years. I do read some historical fiction as well and while I enjoy it, I purposefully stay away from things set in the time frame I am writing about.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton, The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan, and Homecoming by Kate Morton.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Probably the scene where Eliza, her husband, and their servant go out to look for their sons after one of the first major battles of the American Revolution.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I create family trees for all my characters in Ancestry. This allows me to keep track of them, their children, and more importantly their ages, that way I don’t accidentally marry off a 12 year old!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Live for today but not at the expense of tomorrow. Life can be unexpectedly short so don’t put off those things you want to do or accomplish. But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be mindful of the future, and prepare for it like you will get there, but live like you won’t.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Those that came before us endured more than we can imagine. We owe them our very lives and more importantly our respect and remembrance. I hope after reading my books people have a newfound appreciation for what their own families went through and a desire to know more about it.

Gail Combs Oglesby is the author of the new book Till I Come Home

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