In this episode of Quills & Chills, I'm joined by bestselling author Cherie Priest to discuss her novel, It Was Her House First, completely spoiler-free.

Cherie shares how a notoriously haunted house in West Seattle inspired the story and why she wanted to put a fresh spin on the classic haunted house novel, where ghosts can be terrifying without necessarily being evil. We talk about Ronnie, a DIY enthusiast navigating anxiety, depression, and grief after inheriting a dilapidated house following her brother's death. We also explore the novel's multiple points of view, from the living to the dead, including silent film star Venita Rost and the deeply regretful Bartholomew Sloan.

Along the way, Cherie opens up about her late ADHD diagnosis, the role grief and guilt play throughout the novel, her love of restoring old homes, and how the book evolved from its original title, The Hollow Face, into It Was Her House First.

Find Cherie Priest online:

cheriepriest.com
Bluesky: @cheriepriest.com

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As part of the Quills & Chills Pride Series, I'm thrilled to welcome back returning guest Jill Baguchinsky to discuss her haunting new novel, May the Dead Keep You.

We dive into the story of Catie East, who has spent years living in a secluded historic home deep within Northern California's redwood forests. When a botanist and his son, Hunter, move into the property's guest cottage, Katie discovers a mysterious connection that allows the two teens to bring dead things back to life. What follows is a chilling exploration of grief, guilt, family secrets, forgiveness, and the lingering shadows of the past.

Jill shares the inspiration behind the novel, the house's dark history revealed through the book's ephemera, her favorite scenes, the influence of Wuthering Heights, and the creative process behind crafting its slow-burning gothic atmosphere.

Find Jill Baguchinksy online:

jillbaguchinsky.com
Instagram: @jillwritesbooks

Follow Quills & Chills:
Instagram: @quillsandchills
Bluesky: @quillsandchills.bsky.social