About Kerri Stoner:

Q: Can you tell us a little about your debut novel, COnVENt – Inception?

Convent is a witchy brewed New Orleans cocktail—mixed with a shot of magic, a splash of mystery, and a dash of humor. All garnished with historical fiction and the truths, I imagine, were forgotten. 

Q: Your story spans both modern and colonial timelines in New Orleans. How did you decide to structure the narrative this way?

My inspiration was drawn from the miracles of the Ursuline nuns that educated the women of New Orleans since 1727. 

Q: The book explores witchcraft and Southern Gothic history. What inspired you to write about this world?

Witchcraft by definition is the practice of using magical spells or rituals. I wanted to take the reader on a journey to see that what is sometimes demonized as “witchcraft” is very much rooted in what we now call religion. How we view these things are framed by our family, where we grew up, and our society. The opening scene of the book is Mac, in the Bible belt, refusing to open her eyes, and wake-up. 

Q: Mac LeBlanc’s journey involves motherhood and spiritual awakening. How did you develop her character?

Mac’s character is definitely a blend of my own experiences and becoming a mother was one of the most transformative experiences I’ve had. But transformation isn't settling, it’s a continuous cycle. I think for a woman to move into the “crone” cycle, she must awaken spiritually—open her mind to knowledge beyond the ego. The series will take the reader through Mac’s maiden, mother, and crone journey.

Q: Camille LeBlanc’s story is set nearly three hundred years earlier. How did you research colonial New Orleans and the Ursuline Nuns?

I read a ton of nonfiction about the Ursuline nuns. I’m very fortunate that the Catholic Church is the largest collector of archival records and they had letters written by the original nuns that journeyed to New Orleans. The late sister Jane Heaney, who was an archivist for OSU, researched the order extensively and translated the letters to English. Her research rewrote pieces of American history, which is a story in itself. Another Tulane Professor also carried on the research of these women, and now their stories, that have been buried in time, can live on.

Q: Your novel blends magic, mystery, humor, and historical fiction. How do you balance these elements in your writing?

The plot sets the mystery, the world holds the magic, the characters carry the humor, and it's all strung together with history.

Q: Were there any challenges in weaving together historical details with fantastical elements?

For me, the historical details were the inspiration for the fantasy–stranger than fiction!

Q: Without giving too much away, what’s your favorite scene or moment in COnVENt – Inception?

I can’t pick one scene, but when Mac goes home to New Orleans is when the story comes alive for me. 

Q: What themes or messages do you hope readers take away from your book?

That good and evil are two sides of the same coin and the world is sometimes gray. But every person has a soul’s journey–a spirit ready to awaken and live a higher purpose–and that is the thread that connects all of humanity. We are all on the journey together.

Q: How do you approach writing about female communities and relationships across different timelines?

The history and setting made it easy. The Ursulines united women across cultures in Colonial New Orleans and even defied the King of France to do it. They lived by their motto “I serve” and served all of the female community regardless of race, class, or social standing. I believe this spirit still lives on in the city, New Orleans is a gumbo pot of traditions, rituals, and customs. It’s a place where disaster results in distinction and stagnation stirs the spirits.

Q: Are there any hidden details or Easter eggs for attentive readers in your story?

Yes, there are a ton of hints, and foreshadowing.

Q: What drew you to write historical fantasy as your debut novel?

I wanted to give a glimpse into history that was actually told by women—which is very rare to have access to—but appeal to a broader audience that may not be as fascinated with history as I am. I also wanted to give the story a little twist. What if the miracles were magic, and the nuns were witches? What is the difference between magic and miracles anyway? 

Q: Do you have plans for sequels or additional stories in the same world?

Yes, it will be a three-book series. Vocation, book two in the series, will be released in early 2026.

Fun & Personal Questions

Q: Coffee, tea, or something else while writing?

Iced Coffee

Q: Do you have a favorite writing ritual or workspace setup?

I write anywhere and everywhere. While driving in my notes app, at my son’s sports practices, late at night lying in bed, and I think my best inspiration comes to me whiles soaking in the bathtub.

Q: How do you relax or recharge when you’re not writing?

Reading and just being with my family.

Rapid-Fire Questions

Q: Early bird or night owl?

Night owl

Q: Favorite fantasy creature or magical element?

Phoenix

Q: Favorite historical period to read about?

Ancient Egypt

Q: Cats, dogs, or other pets?

Dogs

Q: Mountains or beach?

Beach

Q: Music while writing or silence?

Both

Q: Last book you couldn’t put down?

The Bane Witch

Q: Guilty pleasure?

Wine and pickles

Q: One word that describes your writing style:

Eclectic

Q: Favorite social media platform to connect with readers?

Threads

Q: Something readers might not know about you:

I love playing video games

Q: Advice for aspiring historical fantasy authors?

Find a person you like in history, and just connect threads that you imagine.