5 Minutes, 5 Questions With… Maria McKenzie, author of The Governor’s Sons

About "The Governor's Sons":

Providing a different glimpse into the lives of the hired help, The Governor’s Sons is a heart thumping account of forbidden love and political ambition in the deep South, a suspenseful tale of romance, deception, racial tension and ultimately, racial reconciliation within the powerful Kroth family. (read more)

Joey Pinkney: Where did you get the inspiration to write The Governor’s Sons?

Maria McKenzie: About four years ago I read Essie Mae Washington Williams’s memoir, Dear Senator. She’s Thurmond’s love child by his family’s African-American maid.
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JP: What sets The Governor’s Sons apart from other books in the same genre? 

MM: My book is historical fiction, and most books that take place during this time period (the 1930s) tend to portray African-Americans in the South as poor and uneducated. However, my characters are pursuing college educations and come from educated families. (read more)

JP: As an author, what are the keys to your success that led to The Governor’s Sons getting out to the public?

MM: Publicity is the hardest part of the publishing process. Writing the book is easy! Authors are eternally grateful to people like you, Joey, who help us get the word out through your fantastic author interviews! (read more)

JP: As an author, what is your writing process? How long did it take you to start and finish The Governor’s Sons?

MM: I envision the story, then write a very brief outline. I am NOT a detail person! I know what’ll happen at the beginning and the end, but I’m not sure how I’ll get there. I leave that up to the characters! (read more)

JP: What’s next for Maria McKenzie?

MM: I just released a new book, the first in a trilogy. It’s called Escape: Book One of the Unchained Trilogy. Here’s a brief synopsis: (read more)

Click here to read the entire JoeyPinkney.com with Maria McKenzie.