For author, blogger and speaker Norma L. Jarrett, the sky is the limit. Jarrett recently spoke with Magic City Momma about her latest novel, Salt and Sky.
Tell me about your new book, Salt and Sky.
Maxine and Sierra Sanders, mother and daughter, are both bound to a powerful family by a generational sin. Before either can get free, they must overcome a series of life changing battles. Ultimately, Sierra discovers her own faith will be the key to their financial, mental, physical and spiritual deliverance. However, she must first embark upon a divinely connected journey to Martha’s Vineyard. Through pain, secrets and loss of life, their hard-fought freedom is eventually won. Long after the last page is turned, readers will affirm their faith in restoration and miracles.
Why did you decide to write it?
Initially I wanted to build a story around the experience I had spending several summers on the Island of Martha’s Vineyard. I wanted to capture the spirit of the island, which is so rich with stories and history. But I didn’t think what I’d captured was enough for a full novel. So I developed a backstory that led one of the main characters, Sierra there. I wanted to write it from the perspective of a person who hadn’t grown up and “summer” on the island. Salt and Sky literally takes the reader from darkness to light, which is what usually happens on a spiritual journey. The storyline is designed to illustrate the manufactured freedom we experience until we include God in our deliverance. I also wanted characters to illustrate how easy it is to compromise in our fight for authentic happiness and success.
What is the biggest lesson you want readers to learn from the book?
True peace and freedom will cost the price of a full commitment to Christ. Otherwise we will continue to go around the same mountains. Wholeness, peace, and rest lies with Christ.
Why did you decide to write Christian fiction?
I think I started to write faith based novels when I moved from a casual relationship with Christ to a committed walk. God became my best friend so it naturally poured from my spirit. But I also knew that people needed to relate to God as a friend. Church is inside us and it extends beyond the church walls. So I wanted to write relatable stories that touch people no matter where they are in their spiritual walk. Initially they were fun and full of fruit but some are more serious.
What advice do you have for people who want to write a book?
Just do it. Learn as much as you can about the craft but press past the fear and get your butt in the chair. Each time I sit at the computer I’m afraid. Afraid it won’t be good, but then I pray and ask God what he wants. Even if you don’t hit it out of the ball park every time I realize I have to keep writing, working and finding the best editors! When I stopped writing or took long breaks, it was the hardest to rebuild my confidence. Oh, and stay off the internet. It’s robbing lots of people of purpose. (I’m not there yet, but know when I’m on overload.)
How do you juggle being an author and wife?
Whoa, sometimes it’s tough. First, because men and women are wired different period! I’ve only been married for over seven years. It was all new to me, balancing and sharing time. In the end I realized you can’t do it without God. Fortunately my husband runs two businesses, so on Saturday I’m freed up. If I don’t get it done it’s my fault. I also realized I had to explain to my husband my priorities and how this creative business works. When he sees how happy I am when I get to write he gets it (smile). This answer could be about two pages! I feel blessed that my husband is patient. It’s a trade off because his businesses require the same. He does a lot of things to accommodate our circumstances. Even cooking!
What advice do you have for women interested in pursuing their dreams?
Pray. That’s always the first priority for everything because that is the only way you will understand what is intended for you. Also, do not to be afraid of failure. It can be paralyzing. We don’t always have the full picture but when you begin to move things come into focus. Lastly, have patience. The world makes it seem as though things happen overnight. They don’t. Consistent steps are key.
What’s next for Norma L. Jarrett?
I launched a new blog www.lolamae.co. More fiction and non-fiction books in 2017. Of course another book in the Sunday Brunch series (D.C. Brunch), a speaker’s platform titled Placed for creatives and companion book. And I promised myself I’d write my first screenplay.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Just that I love Magic City Momma and what you are doing (smile).
Use our affiliate link to purchase your copy of Salt and Sky. To learn more about Norma L. Jarrett, visit her website or blog, or connect with her on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
