Author Interview | Osar Adeyemi Talks About When Morning Comes

Today, I am pleased to welcome the revered author Osar Adeyemi to the Australasian Christian Writers blog.  Osar Adeyemi is a bestselling and award-winning author. She is loved around the world for her stories that touch the heart and point readers to Christ.

Possessing a unique grace, Osar’s novels have a way of reminding you of God’s faithfulness in everyday life challenges. When Morning Comes, a second-chance romance set in Lagos, does just that. It shows  a beautiful story of faith, forgiveness, and healing after mistakes. 

Osar is going to talk to us about this new book and how the writing process was like for her

Osar, you are welcome to the Australasian Christian Writers’ blog.

Congratulations on the release of your new book, When Morning Comes. What inspired this story? Was there a specific moment or idea that sparked it?

Thanks a lot for having me, Rume, and I’m really glad you’re enjoying ‘When Morning Comes.’ The inspiration for writing the book came to me one day as I was doing my routine chores in the kitchen. At that time, I had other pending storylines I’d been looking forward to developing. But the storyline for ‘When Morning Comes’ dropped in the midst of them all and I found myself unable to dismiss it until I had penned down the story.

What themes do you explore in this book, and why did they feel important to you?

Forgiveness was one of the major themes. The main female character, Feyi, held a grudge against her dad and stepmum for several years. In a way, they “deserved” it because they really did hurt her with their actions but in another way, is there any hurt worth harbouring the toxicity that unforgiveness comes along with?

Also, as the storyline develops and new villains are revealed, the readers would realise that most of Feyi’s anger was misplaced. Second chance romance was another theme I explored in the book. The main male and female characters were meeting again after six years of being apart and I wanted to show how they missed it the first time in the

relationship and what they had to do to move forward.

Did the story or characters change significantly from your original plan?

I made some changes in the storyline but they were more to do with the sub characters. For example,

I needed a more plausible reason for the main male character to break up with his girlfriend. This was a bit tricky because they were both Christians and there were stuff I felt they shouldn’t even be doing in the first place but I eventually zeroed in on some flaws which I felt many readers would identify with.

I have read many of your books. (Still Waters still always has my heart. I just love Tiwa’s story!) Do you have a favourite book? I know writers struggle with this. Hahaha.

I actually smiled as I read this question. Do I have a favorite book? The answer is no. But having said that, some storylines are easier to develop than others. However, at the end of the day (after overcoming whatever challenges may have popped up in the course of writing a story,) I end up really loving the characters and the book the same way I did the others before it.

How long did it take you to write the book – from idea to publication?

Because of other commitments, this particular book took a bit longer than my other books. I’ll say just under a year in total.

Let’s get to know Osar Adeyemi. What’s your writing routine like?

I wish I could say I have a writing routine but I really don’t. I work full time and I’m also a mum and a pastor’s wife, so I have to carve out time around my other commitments. But when I’m actively writing, I’m happy when I can get down six thousand words in a week.

Now, about the characters. Are any of the characters inspired by real people or experiences?

Not really. All the storylines and characters in my books are fictitious. However, I try to make the

storylines as plausible as possible so that readers can relate with the characters.

Do you see yourself in any of the characters?

The short answer is no.

If your characters could talk back to you, what do you think they’d say?

I have written twelve books, so I guess they’d have a lot to say. Maybe they’d tell me I could have made their journeys easier and smoother, but if I did that, where would the fun be? *Smiles*

How does it feel now that the book is out in the world?

I feel very fulfilled. I’m also really glad with the feedback I’ve received.

What do you hope readers take away from the book?

The feedback has been encouraging and I’m glad the book has fulfilled the two criteria I always set out to achieve in each book—to inspire and entertain.

Are you already working on your next project?

Yes, I’ve begun work on my next book but it’s still in its very early stages.

Do you see yourself continuing with these characters or this world, or is this a standalone?

It’s very likely going to be a standalone like all my other books.

What advice would you give to other writers trying to publish their first book?

Make sure you read a lot of books in the genre you want to write in. Secondly, keep writing/putting those thoughts down. There will be time for editing later, but keep writing.

Alright then. It’s been lovely chatting with you, Osar! Looking forward to having you again here on the Australasian Christian Writers blog. Thank you for your time. Keep inspiring and entertaining us with your lovely, lovely Christian novels! 

When Morning Comes is available on Amazon and other online book stores. You can find Osar here.