Interview with C.M. Newell, Author of Red: Poetry & Prose- Beware of the Wolf

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Red: Poetry & Prose – Beware of the Wolf?

Poetry, for me, has always been a wellspring of inspiration, especially the works of Rupi Kaur and Amanda Lovelace. ‘RED’ germinated from that inspiration, nurtured over four years and a few transformative poetry classes. At its core, it’s a love letter to the coming-of-age narrative, woven with a reimagined tapestry of fairy tales that celebrate female empowerment. Although I often dwell in the realms of fantasy and romance, ‘RED’ represents a creative departure, allowing me to explore new horizons in a genre I deeply adore.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Red: Poetry & Prose – Beware of the Wolf, what would they be?

For RED, the main character we follow in this poetry & prose journey, I would recommend the following songs based on her journey:

Part 1: “As it was” by Harry Styles, and “Bones” by Imagine Dragons.

Part 2: “Traitor” by Olivia Rodrigo, “What was I made for” by Billie Eilish.

Part 3: “Empty Cups” by Charlie Puth, and  “Lover” by Taylor Swift.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I’m an eclectic reader, however, the main genres I enjoy are fantasy and romance.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

This space isn’t large enough for my ever-growing TBR. What I’m most excited about coming out this year is Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Eek picking my favorite poem is like picking my favorite child. I think for me the ones around sisterhood in part 3 are the most powerful messages that I’m proud of. I think so many times women are pitted against each other, and I love when we can come together in unity. It’s a beautiful thing.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

My yellow Labrador, Piper, is my office/work companion. She’s usually with me when writing or reading providing her story approval with well-timed snores.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

‘Don’t look back to go forward.’ This is me being in my creative flow to tamper down my inner critic.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I hope readers close ‘RED’ with their hearts a little fuller, embracing the ever-evolving journey of life with hope. May they find freedom from the confines of ‘should’ and ‘supposed to,’ discovering that the truest path is the one they forge for themselves.