Q&A with Debra Webb, The Darkness We Hide

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How did you decide on the location for the series?

My husband, family and I lived in the Winchester area for fifteen years. We have family and friends there and adore the area! The town of Winchester is historic and has that “old west” feel and it felt perfect. Particularly since the old, old funeral home there is totally inspiring!

What is your favorite genre to read, and why?

Psychological or domestic suspense!

What do you use to inspire you when you get Writer’s Block?

A long ride in the countryside. Great music. Good movies!

Best TV or Movie adaptation of a book?

Outlander!

Do you plan your books in advance or let them develop as you write?

I plan to a degree and then let the story take me where it will.

What has been the hardest thing about your publishing journey? What has been the most fun?

The hardest thing was an injury in 2010 that left my right arm and hand basically paralyzed. Three years of physical therapy was required for regaining partial use of the arm and learning to even write my name. But I never stopped writing. Slowed down a bit, but didn’t stop! The most fun without question has been reaching a place where I could write the books of my heart rather than what had a better chance of selling to a house.

What is the significance of the title?

Very important to suspense and mystery are the things a character doesn’t know or doesn’t see coming. The secrets, the lies and even the darkness can trickle into the lives of most people. Most people have secrets, most lie occasionally—if only to protect feelings—and we all have feelings sometimes that aren’t happy or light or maybe nice. Thus the titles, The Secrets We Bury, The Lies We Tell and The Darkness We Hide!

What were the key challenges you faced when writing this book?

Making sure the body preparation and tasks of a funeral director were accurate. 

What would you tell a hopeful content creator about trying to break out in publishing?

Focus your work and never stop trying!