What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write It’s Time That We Be Brave?
High school bullying is something my children witnessed firsthand — from ridicule and abandonment to the cruelty of social media, suggesting that individuals should commit suicide. What amazed me was my son and daughter’s ability to see past social pressure and do the right thing by protecting others. When I was in high school, I witnessed physical bullying, but instead of stepping in, I stayed silent to protect my image of popularity. Ally Robison is the person I should have been back then — and the person my children chose to be.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of It’s Time That We Be Brave, what would they be?
Ally Robison – “Warrior” by Avril Lavigne and “Skyscraper” by Demi Lovato.
Evan Bishop – “Broken” by Jonah Kagen.
Harris Robison – “GET UP” by Shinedown.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Favorite genre to write – Social drama and thrillers.
Favorite genre to read – Biological thrillers.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
The Last One at the Wedding, The Paris Widow, and Worst Case Scenario.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Harris telling his sister Ally that he always thought their dad loved her more.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Playing music to set the scene and capture the character’s attitude — often listening to the same song on repeat for hours.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
Life responds to effort, and time heals nothing unless you move with it.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Don’t waste time looking for a hero to save you—be a hero to others.
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