We're happy to have Michael Sullivan with us today talking about his book, Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness. To learn more about Michael and his book, read on!
1) How did this story come to you?
1) How did this story come to you?
There is a great deal of autobiographical material in the story. I actually had a dream back in May of 2007. I was in the streets of First Century Jerusalem and it was Palm Sunday. I knew then I wanted to send my characters back to the last week of Christ’s life.
2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I first started writing the core of this story when I was homeless, back in 1983-84. I was riding the E-train (NYC subway line) at night. To keep myself awake at night, I wrote many of the autobiographical material now featured in the book. Two decades would pass before I became serious about attempting to write the novel. Necessary Heartbreak was first self-published two years ago. Simon & Schuster liked the story enough to offer me a contract. I added over 100 pages to the story for the S&S edition. Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness will also come out in a mass market edition next April. Currently, my agent, Irene Webb, is pitching the story to four movie producers.
3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I’m not sure there’s anything that would be surprising. In this particular story, I’ve incorporated many of my likes and dislikes into the main character. I’ve taken a very deep, emotional and honest look at myself too, using the bluntness as the core of the main character’s personality.
However, I do like to cook. I enjoy seeing my children eat a great meal. I wish I could work someday in Disney World. I love to see children smile. And I hope someday to take up ballroom dancing.
However, I do like to cook. I enjoy seeing my children eat a great meal. I wish I could work someday in Disney World. I love to see children smile. And I hope someday to take up ballroom dancing.
4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
It’s the sequel to Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness. The title of the story is called The Greatest Christmas Ever.
5) Parting comments?
Enjoy today. It’s our greatest unopened gift. It may sound corny, but ultimately it’s the absolute truth. Unwrap your gift today. Absorb the beauty of God’s world. Make it even more beautiful with your smile and your strength.
6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Whentimeforgets.com
