The only fictional characters in the story were those that play a supportive role. All the primary characters were real.

Glenn Hileman – 27 February 2024

The Back Flap

Lyle is a struggling teenager with low self-esteem. His poor decisions reinforce his reputation as a troublemaker. Marylin arrives at a new high school and navigates the challenge of fitting in. When Lyle sets his eyes on the new girl at school, he is smitten. He is determined to win Marylin’s affection. Eventually, Lyle convinces Marylin to give him a shot, and a relationship follows. Their story together is filled with obstacles, but their commitment to one another provides the foundation for a lifetime of happiness. Together, they dream of a family and a destination to gather friends and loved ones. Against all odds, they secure both.

About the book

What is the book about?

Lyle and Marylin meet as teenagers at Wheat Ridge High School. With little in common, Lyle pursues “the new girl” at school and commits to changing his life to win her affection. A Yellow House In The Mountain follows the couple’s relationship as they marry, have a family and plan for their future. Together, they overcome numerous obstacles and navigate 68 years of marriage. On October 21, 2000, Lyle and Marylin are caught in the East Troublesome fire, the fastest moving in Colorado history. They responded to this challenge like all others…together.

When did you start writing the book?

A week after the fire, inspiration for the story began to flow. While ordinary people, I wanted to share the extraordinary accomplishments that came from their faith and commitment.

How long did it take you to write it?

Approximately six months were spent writing. Editing and design took an additional three months.

Where did you get the idea from?

I initially began writing numerous short stories I’d learned about my parents. My wife, Michelle, suggested putting them together in narrative form so that my children and grandchildren could easily follow along with the adventures of their grandparents.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

While I knew various aspects of my parent’s early life, I needed to research a variety of dates to better understand the motivation that led to the decisions they made. For example, in 1952, Lyle enlisted in the Marine Reserves. Having just graduated high school and having recently married the love of his life, my research landed on factors that would have weighed on his mind.

What came easily?

The retirement years of their story were well known to me and others. They made a commitment to live in the high Rocky Mountains and as a result, our family shared countless memories with them. The challenge was determining which would make it to the printed page!

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

The only fictional characters in the story were those that play a supportive role. All the primary characters were real.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

I enjoy reading historical fiction and learned from numerous books how to cover events by embellishing some details that wouldn’t be known for certain. Given this was my first attempt to write a book, I also leaned on expertise from Reedsy professionals to guide my work.

Do you have a target reader?

The story will be of interest to those that enjoy inspirational non-fiction. Also, those with exposure to Rocky Mountain National Park, the Village of Grand Lake, and interest in forest fires will find the story compelling.

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

When inspiration came, I dropped everything to capture the thoughts. Typically, at the end of a day, I would review my notes and dedicate approximately an hour to craft the story. I found one to two hours of writing was my limit.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I followed an outline. However, midway through the process, I was encouraged to change the flow to a sequential story. Previously, I’d begun on the day of the fire and flashed back to events that occurred earlier in the protagonist’s life. Both versions were fun to create but ultimately, the sequential telling of the story won out.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?

I leveraged Grammarly throughout the writing process but waited until I was finished with the story before engaging other editors for assistance. I am still amazed at the number of corrections required to complete the project. Editing is a real skill that I’ve come to appreciate.

Did you hire a professional editor?

I hired both a content editor and editor to assist. I found their contributions invaluable.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

No. I was most effective in being alone in a quiet environment. While writing I often found myself visualizing the scenes and events. Noise from music or TV was a distraction I tried to avoid.

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

No.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher?

Not being represented and as a first-time writer, I found publishers were unwilling to take a serious look at my work. I submitted the manuscript to several publishers but was unsuccessful in securing a commitment.

Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

For me, the process was gradual. After completing the manuscript, I was approached by Electric Panda Entertainment to convert the story into a screenplay. We entered into an agreement and I was asked to NOT proceed with the book until after the screenplay was complete. However, in June of ’23, the actors and writers strike put the movie on hold. I was then encouraged to complete the book and get it ready for publication. Ideally, the February release of the book will bolster the marketing efforts of the film.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

I hired Glen Edelstein of Hudson Valley Book Design. He was wonderful to work with and completed the cover as well as the layout.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

I’ve engaged Books Forward to develop the PR campaign. Additionally, my daughter was hired to coordinate our social media campaign.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

I’ve become a huge fan of Reedsy. The marketplace is filled with professionals that can assist. Also, there are numerous articles and videos of instruction to help.

About You

Where did you grow up?

Denver, Colorado, USA

Where do you live now?

Bountiful, Utah, USA

What would you like readers to know about you?

I’m currently working to restore the property lost to the fire. In the process, we are making a number of improvements to honor the legacy of Lyle and Marylin.

What are you working on now?

I’m still working full-time as the CEO of Highmark School Development. However, I’ve already been working on a musical for the story. The outline is complete and a few of the tunes have taken shape. Someday, I’d like to see the story played out on stage.

End of Interview:

Get your copy of A Yellow House in the Mountains from Amazon US or Amazon UK.