THE STORM by John Wills
Here’s a brief synopsis
of the story: Anna’s life in the
small town of Heavenly Harbor, Michigan, seems idyllic. Married ten years to
her childhood sweetheart, Mark, she wants for nothing, except a baby.
Unfortunately, her husband doesn’t share her enthusiasm. Anna has been secretly
keeping a journal. She’s recorded her suspicions about Mark’s reluctance to
share her dream and his possible infidelity. As she is about to confront him,
lightning strikes, literally, causing her to lose her memory. The Storm will not only damage Anna
physically, but possibly destroy her marriage as well—and Mark’s secret life is
about to implode.
I was inspired to
write this story simply because I’ve had people in my life recently who’ve
suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease. I’ve witnessed the steady progression of the
disease, sometimes developing slowly, other times the result of a sudden onset.
The destruction the malady causes is beyond description. After a while, the
victim hardly realizes what is happening. Sadly, however, those close to the
patients suffer immeasurably. Their once vibrant loved one disappears before
their eyes. In the final stages, it’s not unusual for the victim to be unable
to recognize family and friends. Heartbreaking.
So while I was
pondering a story involving memory loss, I thought it would be interesting if
it centered around a young person. Rather than Alzheimer’s, I thought an injury-induced
case of amnesia would make for a compelling story. Thus, the making of Anna’s
story took shape.
I did my research
with respect to injuries resulting from lightning strikes—how they affect the
physical and mental well-being. In addition, I wanted the protagonist to be
likeable, believable, and strong. Anna is that person, and her tenacity after
her injury makes her character even more powerful. The injury transforms Anna’s
character, once a one-dimensional teacher and wife, into a strong determined
woman who knows what she wants and how to get it.
Of course what would
a story be without at least one antagonist that readers dislike right from the
beginning? We have such a character in Vicky, a personal trainer at the local
health club. Her chicanery and outright lack of morals wreaks havoc upon Anna’s
marriage. Add to the mix a couple of strong insightful cops and the recipe for
a great novel is ready to serve.
Early reviews have
been outstanding and I look for more to be posted. Now excuse me as I need to
start the wheels turning and come up with a tale for my next book.
Thanks, Marilyn, for
allowing me to introduce my newest novel—The Storm.
--John Wills
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