In her 4th novel, being released as an e-book on May 22, 2015, Diane Winger uses a fictionalized version of Montrose, CO and surrounding San Juan mountain settings as a backdrop to her contemporary story.
Montrose author, Diane Winger, takes the advice to “write what you know” to heart, and in her 4th novel, Memories and Secrets, the story takes place in a fictional town on the Western Slope called Seligton. There’s a cozy coffee shop located in a historic house built in the early 1900s where locals hang out. The town celebrates Independence Day with a parade, street fair, and evening fireworks. Hikers marvel at the splendor of Blue Lakes and enjoy views of Mt. Sneffels. Sound familiar?
When asked if the two protagonists in Memories and Secrets are based on real people, or if she identifies with either of them, Winger explains that she feels a bond with the grandmother, Deborah (who is described as close to the author’s age and, like Winger, passionate about hiking and rock climbing), as well as with seventeen-year-old Ashley, the granddaughter. Winger remembers herself as having been an immature and insecure teenager who still recalls all too well how that felt.
As for the details of the story itself, Winger chalks it up to her imagination. The novel delves into several contemporary issues, including bullying, suicide, and end-of-life decisions.
“Older people and teenagers may seem to focus on very different personal issues and concerns, but in the end, we have more in common than you might think,” says Winger. “Both generations of women in this story have something to offer the other, and ultimately trust and love are the keys to their bond.”
Memories & Secrets will be available for e-readers from Amazon.com starting May 15, 2015. A paperback edition is planned for June 2015.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00W2GUPM8/
