Joining Curry on “CBS Mornings,” Tobias shared the inspiration behind his first novel.
“I really just had one message that I was trying to share with readers, especially young people, about the fact that no matter how big a mistake you make, As long as you’re willing to own it and make better choices moving forward, there’s always another path for you that never ends,” Tobias said.
The novel combines elements of mystery, coming-of-age experiences, betrayal, love and Jamaican culture.
Curry, who has strong ties to Jamaica, said she was drawn to the book because of its cultural depth. He also called the book a mixture of mystery, ghosts and Carina’s future travels. Curry’s own roots in Jamaica played an important role in his decision to publish the novel.
“The first obviously is that Trisha is an incredible writer, but we have a lot of connections. The first obvious connection is our Jamaican roots,” said Curry, who is married to Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry. “The story is based in Jamaica. The culture just flows through the pages. And that really drew us to the story.”
An infusion of Jamaican culture, including references to foods like cocoa bread and Jamaican beef patties, adds authenticity to the narrative, which Tobias credits to his mother, who grew up in Jamaica.
“I was very influenced by my mom, who was born and raised in Jamaica, and she told me all kinds of dippy stories growing up,” shares Tobias.
The novel explores themes of self-discovery, growing up, and navigating complex relationships, all while dipping into the supernatural elements that affect Karina’s life.
“When you’re writing and revising, that’s where a lot of the magic happens. And for me, it kind of came as a surprise,” Tobias says of the twists and turns the story takes. Even for me.”
Curry hopes that “Honeysuckle and Bone” will help foster a love of reading among young people, especially those drawn to deep, meaningful stories.
In addition to her expanding business empire, Curry also talked about the changes that come with having four children, ages 8 months to 12 years.
“I thought people were full of it when they said, like, ‘Oh, after three, it doesn’t matter that much.’
The first release under “Sweet July Books,” “Honeysuckle and Bone,” is now available at bookstores nationwide.