Meet Marnie Gellhorn
Marnie Gellhorn is a freelance journalist turned novelist whose storytelling blends real-world depth with sharp investigative insight. Over the course of her career, she has written three books two of which are part of a planned trilogy titled Murder in the Mississippi Delta. Her writing is shaped by a journalist’s curiosity, a novelist’s imagination, and a deep fascination with the human condition.
“I’ve always been drawn to stories that reveal what people are capable of under pressure,” Marnie shares. “Whether it’s in a small Southern town or behind prison walls, truth has a way of surfacing.”
The Story Behind Her Latest Book
Marnie’s most recent project was inspired by a series of interviews she conducted with inmates at La Picota, one of Colombia’s most notorious prisons. These conversations offered her rare insight into life behind bars and the moral and psychological complexity of those who live it.
“The inmates’ stories were raw, unfiltered, and deeply human,” she explains. “It reminded me that reality can be more compelling than fiction.”
The result is a gripping narrative that blurs the line between journalism and storytelling, giving readers a glimpse into worlds often left unseen.
Writing Habits and Research Process
For Marnie, research is both her strength and her rabbit hole. “I can spend hours verifying sources, cross-checking facts, and diving into background details,” she says. “What starts as fact-checking often turns into discovery.”
Her research sessions are fueled by strong coffee and relentless curiosity. “It’s all part of the process,” she laughs. “Every fact has a story behind it.”
Literary Influences
Marnie draws inspiration from a wide range of sources books, articles, and interviews that have shaped her worldview over time. She was an avid reader of Longform.org before it closed and remains a loyal follower of ProPublica and Google Books.
Among her favorite authors are Harry Turtledove, known for his alternate history novels, and the late Hugh Zachary, whose work she greatly admires. “Every piece of writing I’ve ever consumed has influenced me in some way,” she says. “It all stays with you, consciously or not.”
What She’s Working On Now
Marnie’s creative plate is full. She is currently developing a new book based on another extensive series of interviews with a high-profile inmate at La Picota. At the same time, she’s beginning research for the third installment of her Murder in the Mississippi Delta trilogy, tentatively titled Kings of the Delta.
As if that weren’t enough, she’s also crafting her first cozy mystery, introducing readers to a new character Sgt. Rex Lester. “It’s refreshing to work on something lighter while balancing the heavier projects,” she says.
Promoting Her Work
When it comes to promotion, Marnie relies on word of mouth and traditional methods like book fairs, author signings, and book clubs. “I love meeting readers in person,” she says. “Those conversations remind me why I write.”
She hopes to expand her reach online and dreams of readers sharing reviews and discussions of her books on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. “Social media can be a wonderful way to build community,” she adds.
Advice for Aspiring Authors
Her advice is straightforward and honest: “Write what you want, and write for yourself.” Marnie believes authenticity is what separates good writing from great writing. “You can’t please everyone,” she says. “But you can write something true.”
The Best Advice She’s Ever Heard
Two words have carried her through the highs and lows of her writing journey: Be persistent.
“Writing is a long game,” she says. “You have to stay committed even when no one’s watching.”
What She’s Reading
Marnie’s reading habits mirror her eclectic mind. She’s currently juggling several books, multiple blogs, and daily news articles. “I start reading as soon as I wake up,” she laughs. “I even get up an hour early just to have coffee and read whatever catches my attention.”
What’s Next for Marnie Gellhorn
Looking ahead, Marnie hopes to land a publishing deal, secure a literary agent, and dedicate uninterrupted time to writing and research. “I’d love to spend weeks in archives and then retreat to my friend’s cabin to write,” she says. “And maybe one day, be a featured author on a book cruise.”
With her mix of journalistic precision and narrative flair, it’s clear her journey as a storyteller is only just beginning.
Books She Would Take to a Desert Island
If stranded on a desert island, Marnie would take:
- A Wilderness Guide to Survival – for practical reasons.
- War and Peace – for a long, immersive read and perhaps a makeshift pillow.
- A set of encyclopedias – “if I’m allowed to count that as one book,” she jokes.
Connect with Marnie Gellhorn
- Website: Marnie Gellhorn Official Site
- Amazon Author Page: Marnie Gellhorn on Amazon
- Goodreads: Marnie Gellhorn on Goodreads
- Facebook: Marnie Gellhorn on Facebook
