Interview with Jaye Burke, Author of The First Lights of Eventide

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The First Lights of Eventide?

When Neely discovers the former site of the Mountain Lodge Hotel in rural Alabama.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The First Lights of Eventide, what would they be?

“Peaceful, Easy Feeling” by the Eagles, “Song from a Secret Garden” by Secret Garden.

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

Historical fiction, time travel fiction, women’s fiction, and historical romance are my favorites to both read and write.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Robinswood Story by Jean Grainger, The Forgotten by Irina Shapiro, and This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Describing details of the crumbling circa 1883 historic hotel and Neely’s reaction when she meets Ned for the first time.

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

I listen to specific music that matches the era I’m writing about at the time.

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

“Historical Fiction writers breathe life into those who have gone before us…”

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

We should discover and save the hidden national treasures that define our country’s history.

Jaye Burke is the author of the new book The First Lights of Eventide

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