I was incredibly lucky to receive an advanced reader copy of “One Beautiful Year of Normal,” Dr. Sandra Griffith’s debut novel. The book, which comes out in February 2026, involves mystery, complex family dynamics, and a protagonist seeking to understand the ghosts of her past.
Dr. Griffith’s novel will quickly draw you in. A psychologist and adjunct professor, Griffith leans on her expertise to craft multifaceted characters and compelling storylines. I had the opportunity to ask Dr. Sandra Griffith about the process of writing One Beautiful Year of Normal. Here’s what she said about her debut novel:
What inspired you to write?
“I would have to say reading my first Jonathan Kellerman novel back in the early ‘90s. Like the character in his novels, Kellerman is a psychologist, and his books made me realize it was possible to combine the two things I love. I’m just sorry it took me so long to [start writing]!”
What advice might you give to aspiring authors?
“I think everyone’s writing process is different, but if I were giving myself advice, it would be to mentally prepare myself to edit and rewrite every single word. I would have liked to have known beforehand that I would trash [my entire story] and start over several times. For me, it was also helpful to read similar stories throughout the process [of writing One Beautiful Year of Normal]. [Reading these stories] was inspirational, but it also helped with the actual mechanics and techniques of writing.”
Are any of the characters influenced by people in your life, and if so, how did that impact how you shaped your characters?
“I’ve been a psychologist for over 30 years, [and I have] a very busy practice that primarily focuses on children and adults who experience severe difficulties, some of which present in unusual ways. The mother-daughter relationship in One Beautiful Year of Normal was shaped by [the situations that clients often bring in].”
Mental health comes up frequently in your book. What message do you hope that your book conveys about mental health?
“The general message would be that while the impact [of mental illness] varies greatly, nearly every person is directly or indirectly affected by psychological disorders. Specific to this story, a family secret and a misunderstood event set a series of events in motion that change the course of the main characters’ lives. Discussing [issues] and clearing up misunderstandings can have a tremendous positive impact [on mental health].”
How do you feel about our country’s approach to mental health?
“We have a long way to go to make mental health services more accessible, acceptable and affordable, but it is encouraging that over the last few years there seems to have been a positive shift towards prevention, early intervention, and integrated care. Policymakers seem to be becoming more aware that aside from the devastating quality of life issues associated with mental illness, [its] financial impact [on] the economy is staggering. We need to continue investing resources into the things that improve lives.”
Do you think you’ll write another book?
“I just finished my second novel and hope to have the edit complete by spring 2026. [My second novel] has a faster pace than “One Beautiful Year of Normal,” but is similar.”
Who is your book’s favorite character and why?
“My favorite character is Thomas. He’s the quiet, solid, no-drama person who shows up when [he’s] needed.”
Interviewing Dr. Sandra Griffith was a pleasure, and I highly recommend her book. “One Beautiful Year of Novel” is a gripping story with a cast of multifaceted characters, so you should definitely add it to your 2026 reading list!
Do you think you’ll scope this book out once it comes out in February? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured image courtesy of the author
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