A Journey of Storytelling, Television Success, and Equestrian Inspirations
Marla White, acclaimed author and TV veteran, shares her journey from childhood mischief to literary success, revealing influences, inspirations, and insights into her captivating storytelling craft.
Marla White, an acclaimed author and seasoned television professional, embodies this dynamic narrative. From her early days of imaginative mischief to her prolific career in television and literature, White’s path to prominence is as intriguing as her stories.
With a mischievous spirit, White’s storytelling prowess bloomed at the tender age of four, where she first dabbled in narrative by aiding Winky Dink, albeit on the wrong canvas, prompting a disciplinary response. Undeterred, her passion for storytelling flourished, leading her on an eclectic journey through various creative avenues. Initially drawn to the allure of the great outdoors, White briefly pursued a career as a park ranger, only to realize her affinity lay more with the fictional portrayal of such adventures on television screens.
White’s professional trajectory soon led her to the realm of television, where she made her mark with award-winning productions for renowned networks like ABC, CBS, USA, and HBO. Notably, she collaborated with Emmy Award winner Peter Tolan, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Beyond her screen successes, White shares her wealth of knowledge through teaching engagements at UCLA, enriching the next generation of storytellers with her insights into story analysis and workshops.
In this exclusive interview with Reader’s House magazine, Marla White offers readers a glimpse into her literary world, sharing anecdotes, inspirations, and the intricacies of her craft. From her influences—ranging from classic authors like Dick Francis and Leslie Charteris to contemporary luminaries such as Louise Penny and CJ Bahr—to her affinity for grounded fantasies tinged with supernatural elements, White’s literary palette is as diverse as it is engrossing.
Join us as we delve into the mind of Marla White, exploring the genesis of her latest novel set in the world of eventing, her dream cast for a potential movie adaptation, and the reception of her work, hailed by critics for its suspense, steam, and irresistible allure. From her enchanting narratives to her infectious enthusiasm for storytelling, Marla White continues to captivate audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.
You’re organizing a party. Which two authors, dead or alive, do you invite?
Jim Butcher and Neil Gaiman – if they’re anything like their characters, they’d be a hoot!
What books and authors have impacted your writing career?
Dick Francis, Robert Parker’s “Spenser” books, Leslie Charteris’ “Saint” books, Louise Penny, and CJ Bahr for convincing me to send my first manuscript to a publisher
Which writer would you want to write your life story?
Sawyer Bennett – she’d make it sexy and against all odds I’d end up with a hunky hockey player.
What inspired me to write a novel in the world of eventing?
Until recently, I rode and owned horses and love the array of characters you meet in a barn, both the two and four-legged varieties.
What other genres do your read and/or write?
Grounded fantasies with supernatural elements like wizards, angels, and vampires. My “Keeper Chronicles” series involve archangels as the most dysfunctional family you’ll ever meet.
Who would I cast if they made a movie of “Cause for Elimination”?
Ryan Reynolds or Josh Duhamel as Justin. I also wouldn’t say no to Chris Pine
For Emily – Emma Stone, Margot Robbie, Anya Taylor-Joy, but they’d have to be able to ride.
Praise:
Cause for Elimination by Marla A. White was entertaining, suspenseful, steamy, and hard to put down. – Online Book Club
Another brilliant romantic mystery penned by Marla White, Cause for Elimination deserves to be in the winner’s circle and enjoyed by the masses. – N.N. Light
…a wonderful and entertaining read and perfect for those who love a riveting murder mystery with a dash of romance. – Literary Titan
Excerpt:
Lost in her own thoughts, Emily flinched when the detective broke the relative silence of the pickup’s cab, having to raise his voice to be heard over the truck’s throaty engine as they roared down the road. “You do realize I’m a cop, right?”
She glanced over and saw his white-knuckle grip on the passenger door armrest. “That’s the fourth orange light you’ve run,” he fussed, relaxing his hold to make air quotes around the word orange. “Not to mention the speeding,” he added as they charged up the freeway entrance ramp.
Who knew detectives were such wusses?
“Oh, come on, even traffic cops tell you it’s okay to go ten miles over the posted speed limit.”
“You’re going twenty miles over and that’s an urban myth. Besides, I thought all you horse whisperers were the calm, patient type.”
He shifted in his seat. When Nick refurbished the truck, he hadn’t gotten around to replacing the bench seat. Unruly springs tended to poke people in rude places. She was used to the rough ride but considering the cop’s car was so cushy it probably had heated seats, she took pity on him and throttled Ellie May back to a gentle purr, reducing the bouncing to a bare minimum.
Follow the Author;
- Website: https://www.marlaawhite.com
- Amazon Author page: https://amzn.to/3MHIzkB
- Goodreads Author page: https://amzn.to/3MHIzkB
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheScriptFixer
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