Shay Galloway, a talented writer known for her slightly off-kilter and historically-interested fiction, is breaking new ground in the literary world with her debut novel, “The Valley of Sage and Juniper.” Blending elements of historical fiction and Western genres, Galloway’s work promises readers a captivating and empowering experience that transcends traditional storytelling.
For Shay Galloway, delving into the world of Western and historical fiction was an unforeseen adventure. Initially hesitant to explore the themes of the West and rural settings, she discovered that her most authentic and raw writing revolved around these very landscapes. Hailing from the Rocky Mountains, Galloway’s upbringing steeped in tales of pioneer women facing adversity in untamed territories heavily influenced the vivid setting of her novel.
In a world filled with repetitive narratives, Galloway seeks to breathe new life into historical fiction. Tired of stories about the same types of people and periods, she was drawn to historical fiction that focused on the lives of ordinary individuals from the past. “I most love historical fiction about the average person at the time, imagining how someone in my position would have navigated the world back then,” Galloway reveals.
One unique aspect of Galloway’s work is her conscious avoidance of incorporating modern technology into her historical fiction. Embracing the challenges of writing mysteries in a world with readily available information, Galloway skillfully crafts stories that retain a timeless quality. “Tech tends to age a story pretty quickly. So not having it is just easier for me,” she explains.
Galloway’s writing shines with its perfect harmony of lyrical prose, compelling plots, and well-rounded characters. Her ability to build a historical backdrop without burdening the narrative with excessive research is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. As she describes it, “I have a good balance of lyrical prose with a strong plot and characterization, also building a historical backdrop without reading like a historical research project.”
Targeting both Western enthusiasts and those who may not typically gravitate towards the genre, Galloway’s novel challenges stereotypes and offers a fresh perspective. “It’s historical fiction for people who don’t like historical fiction, literary fiction for people who don’t like literary fiction, and a western for people who don’t like Westerns,” she enthuses, promising a genre-bending experience that will captivate readers from all walks of life.
One of Galloway’s primary goals was to write characters that embrace both strength and femininity, proving that the two attributes need not be mutually exclusive. In her own words, “You can be strong and still be feminine, and vice versa.” By challenging gender norms and creating realistic and gritty female characters, Galloway seeks to inspire readers and broaden their horizons.
In “The Valley of Sage and Juniper,” Galloway skillfully illustrates rural towns as multifaceted and conforming as any urban setting. Avoiding the idealization or vilification of small-town life, she offers a nuanced portrayal that resonates with readers from diverse backgrounds.
Galloway approached the religious aspect of her novel with a conscientious and balanced perspective. By not demonizing religion or Christianity as a whole, she shines a light on how people utilize faith in their lives, adding depth and authenticity to her characters’ journeys.
“The Valley of Sage and Juniper,” Shay Galloway’s debut novel, is a must-read for those seeking a fresh take on historical fiction and Western genres. Released through Running Wild/RIZE Press, this captivating tale is available now for all literary enthusiasts.
To learn more about Shay Galloway and her literary journey, please visit her website and explore Running Wild Press through the website.
