True Fiction Project: Episode S6 Ep8 - "Crossroads"

Host: Reenita Hora
Guest: Rhonda Parker Taylor
Release Date: June 3, 2025

Introduction

In the eighth episode of the sixth season of True Fiction Project, host Reenita Hora welcomes Rhonda Parker Taylor, an American writer, entrepreneur, and academic researcher. This episode, titled "Crossroads," delves deep into Rhonda's multifaceted career, her debut novel, and the personal experiences that shaped her storytelling.

Guest Background

Rhonda Parker Taylor is renowned for her diverse contributions spanning educational works, fiction, and notable research on emotional intelligence. Her academic prowess is highlighted by her leadership role presented at the United Nations Global Compact committee. Rhonda's transition from corporate America to academia and writing underscores her dynamic career trajectory.

Writing Journey and Inspirations

Rhonda shares her initial challenges with writing, admitting, "I was never proficient at writing" (04:07). Her entrepreneurial and business background laid the foundation for her foray into fiction. An early experience where her proposal was critiqued by her boss ignited a burning desire to enhance her writing skills, ultimately leading her to aspire to be a best-selling author.

As Rhonda navigated various projects and industries, her passion for storytelling blossomed. She began jotting down stories, culminating in her debut novel, Crossroads. Rhonda emphasizes the importance of starting small in writing: "If you have a story, write. It doesn't matter if it's 10 pages, 25 pages, 100 pages, sit down and write it" (07:45).

Personal Tragedy and Its Impact on Writing

A pivotal moment in Rhonda's life was the tragic murder of her adopted son while he was at work. This profound loss mirrored the themes in her fiction, particularly in Crossroads. Rhonda reflects, "It's almost like I wrote a story that's fiction. And then as my life continued from right after writing, my life almost paralleled to it" (05:35). This convergence of life and art compelled her to redefine her path, leading her to expand her consulting work and refine her writing across academic and fictional realms.

Endorsement by Marielle Hemingway

One of the standout moments in the episode is Rhonda's recounting of how her novel Crossroads garnered an endorsement from Marielle Hemingway, a Golden Globe-nominated actress and granddaughter of the legendary Ernest Hemingway. Rhonda explains the unexpected nature of this endorsement: "She released a video on YouTube after she read it, recommending it before we'd even gotten it to the press" (10:09). Marielle's endorsement centered on the novel's core message about life choices and personal growth, resonating deeply with Rhonda's intended themes.

Themes and Messages in "Crossroads"

Crossroads is not merely a suspense thriller but a narrative that urges readers to contemplate their life choices. Rhonda articulates, "There comes a point in everybody's life when they reach a crossroads. And during that period, you have to reevaluate who you are and your loyalties because even chocolate has an expiration date" (12:50). The novel intertwines suspense with profound reflections on decision-making, emphasizing the consequences of inaction and the importance of making wise choices before calamity strikes.

Reading of Fiction Excerpt

Rhonda selected an excerpt from the second scene of Crossroads to illustrate the novel's intensity and thematic depth. The passage portrays Billy Knuckle grappling with guilt and panic following a traumatic incident:

"Billy sat upright in his bed and ripped down his matted hair... The pictures reeling in his head were like a horror movie... He knew he wouldn't end his life. He didn't have the courage to hurt a fly, let alone kill himself. He'd call his mother. She would know what to do."
— Crossroads Excerpt (16:17)

This excerpt encapsulates the protagonist's internal struggle and sets the stage for the unfolding drama that explores the ripple effects of pivotal choices.

Connecting with Rhonda and Her Work

Towards the end of the episode, Rhonda provides listeners with resources to engage with her work. She encourages aspiring writers to share their stories and offers multiple platforms for fans to connect:

• Website: rhondaparkertaylor.com
• Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, LinkedIn
• Newsletter: substack.com/@reenitahora

Rhonda emphasizes community and mentorship, urging listeners to embark on their storytelling journeys: "Follow me and let's go on the journey together" (14:45).

Conclusion

Episode S6 Ep8 of True Fiction Project offers a compelling exploration of Rhonda Parker Taylor's journey from business and academia to the realm of fiction writing. Her candid discussions about personal tragedy, the serendipitous endorsement from Marielle Hemingway, and the profound themes in Crossroads provide listeners with both inspiration and a deeper understanding of the intricate dance between life and art. Whether you're an avid reader, an aspiring writer, or someone fascinated by the transformative power of storytelling, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen to the full episode here.