Monday Morning Reflections: A Little Q&A From the Falls

Good Monday morning, friends.

It’s hard to believe that The Mystery of Cerise Falls has been out in the world for three months now. That book holds a special place in my heart — maybe because it was the one that felt the most like coming home, or maybe because Cerise Falls itself has a way of lingering with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Recently, I received a lovely email from T.L. in VA, and with her permission, I wanted to share a short reader Q&A she sent along. Her questions were thoughtful, kind, and exactly the sort of thing that makes a Monday morning feel a little brighter.

So here we go ☕️📚

Reader Q&A

Which character do you identify with the most?

Heather. For sure. Her wondering soul was very much built off my own at that age — the quiet observing, the feeling of being a little out of step, and the pull toward unanswered questions. Writing Heather felt like revisiting a version of myself I still understand very well.

Was this your first story?

Nope. Hatched from a Chicken Egg was actually my first book in a professional sense. Due to some editing and timing issues, it ended up being released second — and rather quietly — but it will always be the one that started everything.

Did you always know how The Mystery of Cerise Falls would end?

I knew the emotional truth of the ending long before I knew the details. The path there revealed itself slowly, much like the town of Brakesville does.

Are any of your characters based on real people?

Loosely, yes. Little twinges are pulled from my real community in every book. And thankfully, they don’t mind — most seem pretty delighted when they recognize a piece of themselves.

Was Cerise Falls inspired by a real place?

Like many Appalachian stories, it’s a blend. Real landscapes, imagined spaces, and the kind of places that feel familiar even if you’ve never been there before.

Will there be a sequel?

You’ll have to wait and see. 😉

A Quick Reminder From the Falls

If you haven’t visited Brakesville yet, The Mystery of Cerise Falls is available now wherever books are sold.

It’s a haunting Appalachian ghost story centered on a small town still grieving the disappearance of its homecoming queen. Two years later, unanswered questions, whispered legends, and a forbidden waterfall draw one girl back toward a truth that refuses to stay buried.

No spoilers — just a quiet invitation to step into the fog.

A heartfelt thank-you to T.L. from VA for the beautiful email and thoughtful questions. Reader messages like yours are the reason these stories keep growing.

Wishing you a gentle Monday and a good start to the week ahead. 🌿📖

Stay Spooky, Friends

-Tibbi Ann Hardix