We chat with debut author Shara Moon about Let Us March On, which is a stirring novel inspired by the life of an unsung heroine, and real-life crusader, Lizzie McDuffie, who as a maid in FDR’s White House spearheaded the Civil Rights movement of her time.
Hi, Shara! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
Sure! The highlights are: I’m a Haitian-American, born and raised in Florida. I’m a cat mom and a new mom to 3 toddlers. During the pandemic, I married my husband, met my agent, and signed a 2-book deal, which included Let Us March On.
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
It started in the 6th grade when I picked up my first young adult book, Goosebumps by R.L. Stine. I fell in love with reading because of that series. Later, my passion for writing came when I wrote two screenplays and a short story for my 8th grade language arts teacher. She loved my stories so much that she encouraged me to become a screenwriter. I chose to write books instead.
Quick lightning round! Tell us:
- The first book you ever remember reading: Seduction by Amanda Quick
- The one that made you want to become an author: R.L. Stine
- The one that you can’t stop thinking about: Idris Elba 😍
Your debut novel, Let Us March On, is out February 4th! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
- Enlightening
- Entertaining
- Dramatic
- Charming
- Moving
What can readers expect?
Readers can expect to learn more about Elizabeth McDuffie and get to know her more intimately as they uncover a lot about what it takes to be a White House maid living and working during a time of immense political and social strife. Readers will not only relate to her, but will also understand why she went from maid to activist.
Where did the inspiration for Let Us March On come from?
I actually learned about Lizzie from research I was doing for another book I was working on. I was looking for someone that had some influence in the White House, particularly with the president or first lady, but who was also approachable and sympathetic to the issues of African Americans. An author friend of mine (Kaia Alderson, author of SISTERS IN ARMS) sent me an article of Mrs. Elizabeth McDuffie and the rest is history!
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
Albert Jackson, my fictional antagonist to the McDuffies, was a lot of fun to write. I enjoyed creating his character and using him to challenge Lizzie and her husband at every turn. He was an instigator and agitator in the story. He was pretty much exactly who I needed to force my characters—and hopefully my readers—to look within and question their own political, social, and moral beliefs.
Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?
I think every writing project comes with challenges and this was no different! The main challenge for me was balancing fact and fiction. I wanted to stay true to the core of Lizzie’s story but was tasked with filling in the blanks of those interesting moments in her life. Since this is historical fiction, I allowed my imagination to run wild and came up with dialogue and scenes I felt would be interesting and compelling but not so exaggerated that it would dishonor her memory.
This is your debut novel! What was the road to becoming a published author like for you?
In two words: long and complicated, LOL! I actually began professionally writing in 2012, published my first romance novel under a pen name in 2014. In 2020, I decided to pivot genres and Let Us March On is my debut historical fiction novel being published under my maiden name. In February 2021, I signed my book deal and 4 years later it’s finally hitting the shelves. Talk about a journey! But it has all been amazing and I’ve made so many friends and meaningful connections along the way. I truly wouldn’t rewrite any part of it.
What’s next for you?
I’m working on my next historical fiction novel, a post-WW1 story about a mother and widow fighting to honor the fallen soldier they both loved and lost. This book actually sparked Lizzie McDuffie’s story and also takes place during FDR’s presidency. Visit my website (www.sharamoon.com) for more on that!
Lastly, what books are you looking forward to picking up in 2025?
There’s so many, but I would have to say the top 3 historical fiction novels I’m looking forward to reading this year are:
- A Pair of Wings by Carole Hopson
- Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray
- The Filling Station by Vanessa Miller
