Interview with Co-Authors of "Our Blood Runs Black," Marsha Sutherland Self and Rebecca Riner White

Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome back to Bookmarked!

Today, I have a special interview to share featuring the co-authors of the upcoming release, Our Blood Runs Black, a very personal book about the McClure #1 Mine Explosion.

Authors Marsha Sutherland Self and Rebecca Riner White sat down with me for a Q&A about their new book, and I'm so excited to share our conversation below. Please enjoy, and be sure to pre-order their book here in preparation for its release on June 21st.

BOOKMARKED: What would you like people to know about your new book, Our Blood Runs Black?

MARSHA: The meaning of the title, "Our Blood Runs Black," is that as my dad was being treated in the ER, his sweat and blood was dripping on the floor. It was black. And he said, "See, angel, our blood does run black."

REBECCA: It is a true story that will resonate with all readers who have endured tragedy or suffered loss, came through it, and found closure and peace.

What inspired you to write this book?

A small blue suitcase from the '60s that I found after my parents died inspired me. It was full of articles and the Bible that my dad carried.

Marsha inspired me and encouraged me to come on board with her to co-author this book. It was time. Also, memories of my father inspired me. There are blessings in the story that need to be shared. I also wanted to share the insight and the plight of the coal miner. 

What do you hope people take away from reading your book?

The understanding of what coal means to us today. There's no power without coal. Period. Both of my parents lived to be in their 80s and 90s. I'm sure my dad had some black lung, but that's not what he passed from.

Coal mining is a necessary occupation and noble profession: the bond, the blood, the sacrifice.

What advice would you give to other aspiring writers?

Find an awesome co-author that you can get along with! It's both laughter and tears. Bittersweet.

Write from your heart. Make each character matter and make them relatable. Don’t give up. It’s the journey, not the destination.

What's been the most rewarding aspect of the publishing process for you so far? 

The friendships, plus the love and care I have received from hundreds of people.

Seeing the finished product and having a publisher who polishes this rough gem until the jewel is seen. 

Is there anything you'd like to say to the supporters in your life?

Thanks for the push and never giving up on me.

Thank you. You are appreciated. You are valued. We needed you. 

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Thanks again to both Marsha and Rebecca for a wonderful interview. And be sure to pre-order their book, Our Blood Runs Black, here.

Before I go, I also wanted to announce that Marsha and Rebecca are having a "launch party" event for their book on Saturday, June 21, from 1-3 p.m. at the Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator.

According to Marsha, there will be refreshments, fellowship, live music, and drawings every 20 minutes. It will be a fun event celebrating Marsha and Rebecca's journey as authors and their new book, so you won't want to miss it!

Thanks to everyone for reading and supporting Bookmarked! I hope everyone has a great week.

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Allison Lawson

Editorial Assistant

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.

Bookmarked