When you’re building an empire, author Candice Y. Johnson knows there’s no time to spare. I recently spoke with her about her latest release, The Spare Ribs.
Tell me about your latest book.
The Spare Ribs is a celebration of forever family, healing, and redemption. The main character, Savoy, is overwhelmed with grief at the loss of her husband…but a second chance at motherhood may be what pulls her from the pit into her faith.
How long did it take you to write it?
Transparently, this took longer than many of my books. Not because of the writing itself, but because during the course of writing I was told to change things about Savoy that didn’t agree with her testimony, as well as the title, which I was married to because I’d come up with the title first and the story followed. Discouraged, I put the book away until the Holy Spirit encouraged me to pick it up again.
Which character could you relate to the most and why?
Savoy. She’s flawed…but she loves God with all her heart and fights to rise from the ashes.
How are you celebrating the book’s release?
With TACOS, of course!
Who is your author best friend (either in your head or in real life)?
I admire so many, it’s hard to narrow down to just one!
What is the most valuable piece of writing advice you’ve received?
To dig deeper past the plot, to get to the story. And to spit everything on the page without editing/rewriting until it’s time for actual edits. You can’t edit a blank page.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I LOVE Kennedy Ryan’s Skyland series—absolutely beautiful and inspiring.
What books are you excited to read?
I am getting ready to dive into Return to the Shack. Getting my emotions ready…
What’s next for you?
I’ve written a number of scripts—I am about to shoot four short films, and pitching my full-length screenplays as well as preparing to run my last stage play again.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I am so grateful for everyone who takes the time to read my stories. It’s my prayer that my work will lead with love while anchoring faith.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of The Spare Ribs by Candice Y. Johnson.
To learn more about author, screenwriter, editor, filmmaker, and choreographer Candice Y. Johnson, connect with her on social media.
@candiceosp (IG/TikTok/Threads)
Candice Ordered Steps Johnson (Facebook)
