Jacqueline Russell, a seasoned news and feature writer from Owensboro, Kentucky, is set to release her debut novel, The Thing She Didn’t Tell Me, on November 12, 2023. This literary work blends family mystery and Southern storytelling, marking a significant milestone in Russell’s writing journey, which has long been overshadowed by her career in journalism.
Inspiration from the Past
Russell’s passion for writing has been a lifelong pursuit. “I’ve been writing since I was a kid, and when I think about how I would like to be remembered, I was a writer, and I think anybody who is a writer, you want to have a book,” she explained. The genesis of her novel can be traced back to a photograph she discovered while visiting her grandparents. The image featured a young woman exuding an effortless charm, but her life was cut short under mysterious circumstances. This haunting image sparked Russell’s imagination, leading her to ponder the untold stories of the past.
While initially hesitant to set her story in rural Kentucky, Russell found inspiration after attending a local event featuring author Silas House. “Hearing him talk and reading his book made me feel sane in a way when you read something and you’re like, ‘Oh, I know that town,'” Russell shared. This realization pushed her to embrace her roots and craft a narrative that highlights the depth and richness of small-town life.
A Story of Secrets and Discovery
The narrative follows journalist Bea Bennett as she delves into her family history, uncovering a buried secret dating back to the 1940s involving a woman named Ruby. Told through alternating timelines, the novel explores themes of girlhood, legacy, and the enduring power of female friendship. Russell describes her characters as a blend of people who have inspired her throughout her life, particularly the women in her book club and her close friends.
Creating a dual-timeline narrative presented unique challenges for Russell. “There was definitely a point where I looked like a full-blown conspiracy theorist,” she joked, referring to her wall covered in Post-it notes aimed at keeping track of the intricate plot. This meticulous effort was essential to maintaining the mystery and pacing of the story, as she balanced what the present-day character and the character from the past knew.
Through her writing, Russell hopes to spark conversations among readers. “There’s no unique human experience. I think a lot of people don’t share things about themselves because they think they’re the only person that feels that way,” she noted. By addressing themes of vulnerability and connection, Russell aims to encourage readers to share their own experiences.
The Thing She Didn’t Tell Me will be available in paperback and e-book formats through Amazon and other online retailers, with select bookstores also carrying the title. An audiobook version is scheduled for release in January. Russell welcomes invitations to discuss her book at book clubs or events and can be contacted via email at [email protected].
“Stories matter,” she emphasized. “The truths we carry, especially the ones we dare to say out loud, can light something in other people. That’s what I hope this book does.”
