History has always been one of my favorite subjects, and so I chose the muggy streets of 21st century New Orleans, and the elegant plantations of mid-Civil War Louisiana for my first novel. Voodoo, a family heirloom, and the twisted sibling rivalry between the main character's mother and aunt make up the chunk of my novel- one still untitled as of yet.
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| Oak Alley Plantation, the first inspiration for Amberwood |
The South has always been one of my favorite subjects to study, and so I drew extensively on the magic and mystery that the South depicts. The beauty of old Southern plantations gave me my setting- with their wrapping verandas, sprawling acres and distinct characteristics, a cotton or sugar plantation became the perfect address. I tried to stick to the traditional plantations, while still giving Amberwood its own uniquely distinct personality.
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| Myrtles Plantation, the second inspiration |
I also drew on the beliefs and mysticism of Voodoo. The most well-known Voodoo queen herself, Marie Leavue plays a central part in both the past and present of my novel, as the main character finds herself inexplicably linked to the witchcraft that ensnares all of New Orleans. Another aspect of New Orleans that I decided to incorporate into my novel are its endless cemeteries, such as Lafayette Cemetery No. 2.
Voodoo Queen Marie Leavue
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Lafayette Cemetery No.2 |
After all, restless spirits walk the streets of New Orleans. Family included.
