Can your biggest dream begin after retirement?
In this episode of Plot Twist Radio, I sit down with author Shirley B. Novak, whose path to becoming a published novelist proves it's never too late to reinvent yourself. After careers in medicine, teaching, and running a successful interior design business, Shirley published her first novel at 75 years old and has never looked back.
We discuss the unforgettable fourth-grade teacher who predicted her writing future, the heartbreaking true family history that inspired her debut novel, why she walked away from a traditional publishing deal, and the success of her bestselling thriller Stolen Lives, a gripping novel exploring the dark reality of human trafficking.
Along the way, Shirley shares hilarious stories about being mistaken for a terrorist by the Secret Service and TSA, why she writes without outlines, and the lessons she's learned about creativity, persistence, and embracing new adventures at every stage of life.
Whether you're an aspiring writer, an avid reader, or someone wondering if it's too late to chase a dream, this conversation will leave you inspired.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Becoming a published author at 75
- The true story that inspired Shirley's first novel
- The inspiration behind Stolen Lives
- Human trafficking in fiction
- Traditional publishing vs. independent publishing
- Writing without an outline
- Marketing books as an indie author
- Why it's never too late to reinvent yourself
- Life lessons, motherhood, and finding purpose through storytelling
If you enjoy conversations about books, publishing, writing, and inspiring life journeys, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode of Plot Twist Radio.
Find Shirley here.