Tell us about yourself and your work.

I’m both a former professional historian and former professional horsewoman, so writing historical fiction about the first person to ride a horse might not seem much of a stretch. I did not intend to write a novel, however, let alone a trilogy set 6,000 years ago on the Eurasian steppe. Instead, the idea for She Who Rides Horses arrived as a gift, much in the manner Elizabeth Gilbert describes in her book Big Magic [from 2015]. Nearly a decade ago, having abandoned my academic career in favor of working as a riding instructor, I attended a workshop given by Linda Kohanov, author of The Tao of Equus [from 2001]. The workshop explored how horses can encourage creativity and open intuitive pathways. I went simply to experience Linda’s work, not because of any ambition to become a writer. Yet when the themes, characters, and setting for She Who Rides Horses appeared as though out of the ether, I could neither resist nor refuse the offering. I felt chosen by [my characters] Naya and the red filly to be their storyteller.

The timing seemed equally providential. I was at a stage in life when I had the leisure to contemplate combining my interests in history and horses with this newly sparked passion for storytelling. At the same time, researchers were making astounding progress in understanding when and where horses and humans embarked on the mutual project of domestication, while modern equestrians, drawing on the findings of neuroscience, could no longer ignore horses’ fundamental nature as highly intelligent sentient beings, leading to the reevaluation of many traditional training and management practices. Meanwhile, horses involved in the burgeoning field of equine-assisted therapy and coaching were stepping forward to offer their wisdom and compassion, along with lessons in how to be better humans. What better time to be gifted with a compelling story, grounded in contemporary scientific knowledge, about the ancient and somehow sacred connection between humans and horses?

Any advice for others starting the process of independent publishing?

Because She Who Rides Horses presented itself to me as a gift, I’ve mostly approached the storytelling process with joyful curiosity. Yet I also feel a sense of responsibility to render Naya’s story to the very best of my ability—hence the painstaking work of detailed research and careful crafting. My most important decision as an indie author was to seek out an experienced and sympathetic editor. My advice to others contemplating independent publishing is to trust your gift. Whatever story you’re telling, remember that the story chose you…believe in yourself as the storyteller.

What are you working on now?

I’ve spent the past several months narrating and producing the audiobook for Book 1—definitely a labor of love. Book 3 of the trilogy is in progress. I’d be thrilled someday to see She Who Rides Horses as a limited series.

Portions of this Q&A were edited for clarity.