Rhonda McKnight…Touching the Hearts of Many Through Complex Plots and Interesting Stories Interview by Angela Anderson
Rhonda McKnight is a two-time Emma Award author and African American Literary Award nominee who enjoys reading as much as she does writing. Her goal is to touch the heart of women through her stories, one book at a time. This extraordinary author of over twenty indie and traditionally published books is doing just that. With books with a common theme of faith, forgiveness, and hope, Rhonda’s trademark of edginess while touching the heart of women through relatable and interesting characters while throwing in a plot twist often propels her to the top as a fan favorite amongst readers. In addition to bringing stories to life with her ability to make the words come alive and sing throughout the pages, she also freelances her services as a developmental editor and writer coach with a waiting list of individuals desiring to work with her. From writer coach to teaching, gardening, and of course, writing amazing stories, there is more to come from Rhonda McKnight. Originally from a small coastal town in New Jersey, she writes from the comfort of her South Carolina home with no signs of slowing down. Angela Anderson: When did you know that you wanted to become an author? Rhonda McKnight: I’m not sure I knew that writing could lead to authorship until the late 90’s when I started to see books by Black women in the romance and women’s fiction section of bookstores, but I started writing as a young child. I wrote my first book about a family of mice who lived under the boardwalk in my hometown when I was just six years old. AA: What do you enjoy about writing and creating stories? RM: I enjoy creating characters. Figuring out their backgrounds and problems—most importantly, I like to uncover the lie they believe about themselves and why they believe it and the journey to them discovering a new truth.
AA: How would you describe your writing style? RM: My style lies somewhere between commercial and upmarket fiction. I like to engage my readers by creating a sense of emotional connection with the characters and story. I do that using complicated characters in crisis. My writing tools are interior dialogue, subtext, textured description, sensory details, and the use of symbolism or a theme to convey a deeper meaning.
THE HEAT SEEKERS MAGAZINE
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