Get ready to learn more about the book Ever The Hero in this discussion with sapphic author Darby Harn.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz Darby Harn about Ever The Hero, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Billionaire Romance category in the 2024 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write Ever The Hero?
I was inspired to write the book after reading in article in 2011 or 2012 about firefighters who let a man’s house burn down in Tennessee because he hadn’t paid a subscription fee for emergency services. I was shocked and my brain immediately leapt to ‘What if you had to pay for superheroes?’ Sadly, the moral crisis inherent in the story has only become more relevant since then.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
Kit Baldwin. We have a lot in common. We’re both autistic for one, and Kit has been my companion and guide in understanding myself. I discovered I was neurodivergent around the same time I started writing this book, and Kit and I are learning together.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
I really struggled with a title. Ever The Hero comes from a James song I was listening to in 2012 or so. It really embodied this sentiment I was thinking of at the time.
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?
The Eververse continues! Books 2, 3, 4 are available now. Book 5 is coming next year!
What is your writing process like?
I’m definitely a pantser. I love discovering a story. Though as I’ve gone on, I’ve gotten more into being a plotter. I suppose it becomes necessary as series go on and they demand more from you in terms of their structure and overall plan.
How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
I rarely celebrate at all. I should treat myself to something. Writing a book is hard work!
Have you ever hated one of your characters?
I don’t think I hate any of my characters. I don’t think you can hate someone and write them. You have to approach every character, good or evil, without judgment. You have to be agnostic about them to some degree if you’re going to present them authentically and holistically. Characters will form as you write them, and you will likely have opinions about them from the experience, but in the work, you have to be impartial.
Have you ever fallen in love with one of your characters?
In the same way it’s hard to hate a character, it’s hard to fall for them. I do love them sometimes, and I have a lot of love and care for Kit. Not just because we have things in common. She and the book really rescued me from this ditch I was in as a writer. I can’t imagine what life would be like if she hadn’t come to me when she did.
Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?
So many. The Hours by Michael Cunningham. I didn’t know you could write books like that. Same thing with Stranger Things by Kelly Link. Certainly as a kid, I was consuming everything by Stephen King. The Stand remains an inspiration in its scope and audacity.
What book do you wish you had written?
I’d love to do a saphhic version of The Great Gatsby. I suppose Ever The Hero is in some way, with the gulf between have and have nots, but I think Gatsby and its ethos is ripe for reexamination.
