Ida Smith is the author of four books. Her newest book is Guarding What Remains. She writes stories of people traveling jagged journeys, usually, but not always in a historical setting. Ida lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family where she's traveled her own jagged path with unexpected twists, mountains, and sinkholes.
Author Ida Smith dropped by my blog to do an interview with me today.
Welcome, Ida!
What made you want to write? What was your motivation?
I’ve enjoyed writing ever since I was a kid. As long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to write. I took writing classes in college and experimented with a variety of formats, like articles and devotionals, before falling in love with fiction. I’d say my motivation was a love of the craft and all the different things writers can do, be it poetry, or transport people to another world and time, teach, etc.
What do you love most about writing?
Creating something clever, captivating, emotional, or even funny that I think others will enjoy. You’ve written a couple of books – what did you learn from that whole writing process? That I’m never as organized as I think I am. I would much rather create than prepare—but not preparing and planning wastes time and energy and adds frustration. There’s also always something else you can learn.
I read your latest book, Guarding What Remains, and I really liked it. What was the inspiration behind the theme of your book?
Thank you. I’m always pleased when people enjoy one of my stories.
The inspiration came from stories my parents used to tell. In the early 1950s, my parents lived in a cabin north of Bonners Ferry, Idaho. My mom would sit by an apple tree and read, often finding things like spoons, ice skating blades, and other odds and ends. Neighbors told them that there used to be a large log home and a dairy farm. But during the Great Depression, while the family was out haying, someone broke into their home, took the money they’d been paid for milk and set the home and barn on fire.
It was the Great Depression, and no one had money. They couldn’t afford to rebuild, so they gathered up what remained and moved to Spokane, Washington, a hundred miles away. I originally wrote a short story about the fire and their decision to move to Spokane, making up the characters as I didn’t know any of their names or anything else. After a while, readers began asking, “What happened after they arrived in Spokane?”
“I don’t know,” I said, and started brainstorming. The result is Guarding What Remains.
What was the hardest thing about writing Guarding What Remains?
Making time to work on it. It was a time in my life that was really crazy. I was working and both of my kids had multiple doctor appointments each week. I would get off work, pick them up, and haul my laptop with me to write in the car, in waiting rooms, and in the hospital cafeteria. I was desperate to get writing done.
And the most rewarding?
I’d say, seeing the characters develop and become real people, taking on a life of their own.
Do you have a new book you’re writing? Can you share anything about it with us?
I do. I’m in the process of editing the first book in my new Tabatha Soul Mystery Series called, Soul’s Prey. Tabatha Soul is a young forensic scientist who is starting a brand-new position as a Forensic Investigator in Portland, Oregon. She’ll be working with the Portland Police Department and the Oregon State Crime Lab. It’s a trial position, so she has to prove herself and the position. It’s an uphill battle as her boss at the Crime Lab and many of the detectives think the position is unnecessary. Her first cases involve the murders of a couple drug dealers. The public is glad to be rid of them and thinks her attempt to find their killers is a waste of their tax dollars. I’m also working on a novella prequel for the series that introduces Tabatha to my readers. I plan to give away ebook copies of that to my readers when it’s finished.
There are many great Bible verses out there, but which of these apply to your journey in life?
First, I’d have to say John 17:3, “This is eternal life, that you know the one true God, and Jesus Christ whom He has sent.” This verse focused me on pursuing an intimate relationship with God.
Next, Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” I’ve gone through some very hard times—but God has remained faithful—even after my first husband left and years later, when my son died. God has always been there. I have never been alone. He has always been faithful to me.
Ida, have any closing thoughts, writing tips, or advice to share with us?
Writing can be a very solitary pursuit. It helps to have people encourage you. If you want to write, be willing to learn—no matter where you are on the path. 2024 has been for me a year of learning. Also, be willing to take advice and maintain a stubborn persistence. There are times I get discouraged, have a good cry, then get back at it. It’s not an easy career.
Randomly Fun Questions:
What is your favorite era in history?
I’d have to say pioneering times. There’s something to exploring uncharted or new territory and trying to survive with just your wits and ingenuity that I find fascinating.
If you could meet anyone from the Bible right now, who would it be?
Wow, this one is hard. There are so many interesting people in the Bible. But I would have to say, Jesus. To just watch him interact with people—the disciples, those needing healing, the frustrating religious leaders. To hear his voice and the tone of his voice. When I read the Gospels, I have an image in my mind, but I’m sure it’s not always accurate. It would be cool to get to see his heart, his compassion played out, and also see how he delt with the frustration he sometimes felt. I’m sure there would be a lot to learn.
Do you like cake or pie better?
Both!!! I love frosting, but I also love cherry and pecan pies. I guess it’s a toss-up and whatever I’m in the mood for.
How can my readers best get in contact with you or follow you on social media?
They can visit my website at: IdaSmithBooks.com or follow me on Facebook here. Or Instagram at: instagram.com/idasmithbooks. If they enjoy historical fiction and would like to join my Jagged Journeys eZine, they can sign up at: www.idasmithbooks.com/join. If they enjoy mysteries and thrillers, they can join my New Releases email at: https://www.idasmithbooks.com/join/newrel/.
Thank you for doing this interview with me, Ida.
Grace, thank you for this opportunity to share.
Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson
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