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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Ami Cullen talks about Running Free in which Emme, feeling perpetually inadequate in the wealthy hunter/jumper world, escapes to become a dude ranch wrangler, finding true fulfillment and self-discovery by leaving her privileged life behind.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Ami Cullen about her life and career, what inspired her to write her new book, Running Free, and her creative process.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
HI! My name is Ami Cullen. I am an east coast lawyer turned western cowgirl. I currently work as the Director of Equestrian Operations at the C Lazy U Ranch in Granby, Colorado. A small mountain town not too far from Winter Park Ski Resort. I am married to one of the greats, no kids, but I have two amazing dogs. I am also responsible for the care and well-being of over 200 incredible dude ranch horses. I recently wrote my first book “Running Free”. An Incredible Story of Love, Survival, and How 200 Horses Trapped in a Wildfire Helped One Woman Find Her Soul.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
Writing a book has been something I have wanted to do from a young age. I love writing and imaging stories. I just have never made it a priority, nor had any formal guidelines to make it something people would want to read. I learned the process of writing a book from my experience writing Running Free. I’m looking forward to developing my writing after this experience.
When did you take a step to start writing?
The outpouring of support inspired me to write “Running Free” after I had lived through The East Troublesome Fire in October of 2020, one of the worst fires in Colorado’s history. I started writing everything I could remember, and a story evolved from there.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
A little under 4 years.
What made you want to write Running Free?
I wanted to tell my story and my life experience because I wanted people to connect to my journey and the irony of life. The notion of an East Coast Lawyer turned Western Cowgirl has a bit of hilarity to it, as well as relatability. The fire that we lived through was historic and horrific, and I wanted to share my experience and the confidence and love I discovered when a community comes together.
What were your biggest challenges with writing Running Free?
Fictionalizing my personal journey. I couldn’t write a memoire, I tried. So the only way I could write was to create characters and story lines based on my life and fictionalize them.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
Strong Leaders. Specifically, Women. And the ability horses have, to help guide you through the tough questions of life. And Love.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
It was several people that I have known over the years who made me doubt myself and my journey.
What is the inciting incident of Running Free?
The East Troublesome Fire and the rescue of 200 horses.
What is the main conflict of Running Free?
Emme, the main character, has a bit of an identity conflict and an inner battle of confidence. She discovers her confidence and courage and ability to lead when she is tasked with the oversight of the rescue of 200 horses.
Did you plot Running Free in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
A little bit of both. It started with a fly by the seat of my pants approach, but then evolved into an outline of the plot so I could stay on track a bit more.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Running Free need?
Absolutely! Howard VanEs of Let’s Write Books, Inc., oversaw all the editing and guided me through the process of creating, writing and publishing. He was Amazing!
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
Ask for help and feedback. Its discouraging in the beginning when its only an idea or something you want to do, someday. I needed structure and support to make my imagination a reality. This book would never have been written without it.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
I have no plans currently. But I am enjoying imagining stories.
And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
YES! I feel very fortunate that I now have created a piece of me for all the world to see. Putting my story out in the universe has given me even more confidence in my journey.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
Kindle: https://amzn.to/3VNsik3
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4fm9pM4
www.Runningfreehorses.com
www.clazyuranch.com
Instagram @amimcullen
Facebook @Ami Cullen
Linkedin @Ami Cullen
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