Emerging Success

Author Liz Moore is making significant waves in the literary world with the recent adaptation of her novel Long Bright River now available for streaming on Peacock. Her latest book, The God of the Woods, has remarkably sustained a presence on bestseller lists for over 36 weeks, inching closer to the million-sales milestone, a feat often achieved by well-established figures in publishing.

Literary Accomplishments

Despite her growing popularity, Moore is not widely recognized by name alone. Over the last twenty years, she has demonstrated versatility as a writer, capable of bridging the gap between literary and commercial fiction. According to her editor Sarah McGrath, Moore has crafted relatable characters that traverse various demographics and genres, allowing her work to resonate across generations.

“I get messages saying, I loved your new book. Do you have any others?” remarked Moore, reflecting on the responses to her body of work. “Or they’ll call The God of the Woods my second book because Long Bright River was my first that broke out.”

A Journey Through Literature

The God of the Woods marks Moore’s fifth novel, written long after her debut, The Words of Every Song, which she penned during her time at Barnard College. After her graduation in 2005, she secured an agent who recognized her early work, setting the stage for her future in publishing.

Initially, Moore had aspirations of a music career. Nonetheless, her knack for storytelling soon took precedence, and her writing was highlighted by critics, including Robert Christgau, who acknowledged her well-rendered narrative style.

Academic and Professional Growth

Throughout her twenties, Moore balanced creative pursuits and teaching, taking positions at various notable institutions, including Holy Family University and Temple University, where she now directs the graduate-level writing program. “I was raised never to quit a day job,” Moore explained, emphasizing the importance of community and education in her life.

Inspiration Behind the Stories

Moore’s approach to writing is deeply informed by her personal experiences and the stories of others. Her research for Long Bright River stemmed from a photo essay about women affected by addiction in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood. This engagement with real-life issues lends authenticity to her narratives.

The story, which took approximately four years to complete, centers around a detective seeking her addicted sister, drawing from Moore’s own familiarity with addiction within her family. “Since birth, I’ve been surrounded by family members in various states of active use or recovery,” she noted.

A Best Seller and Pandemic Creativity

Released on January 7, 2020, Long Bright River quickly garnered acclaim, becoming a bestseller and a selection for the Good Morning America Book Club. The recognition spurred conversations within her family about addiction, offering a cathartic experience. Simultaneously, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Moore juggled teaching and parenting, resorting to an early morning writing routine to maintain her creative output.

Her latest novel, The God of the Woods, emerges from that challenging period, conceived as she sought to reconsolidate her identity amidst the chaos.

Creative Process and Current Work

Describing her writing process, Moore stated, “It has so many characters. It has so many timelines. I never outline, so I just write and experiment and fail.” This method adds a sense of immediacy to her narratives, such as in her latest book focusing on the mystery surrounding the fictional Van Laar family in the Adirondacks, a region that holds personal significance for her family history.

Currently, The God of the Woods is not just a commercial success but also a member of the Book of the Month Club, further solidifying its presence in contemporary literature.

Community and Adaptation

Moore’s community-driven approach to writing extends to her involvement in the Peacock adaptation of Long Bright River, where she worked collaboratively within the writers’ room. Although most filming occurred in New York City, elements of Philadelphia’s spirit were retained, featuring local artists and residents.

“I use 3 P’s as a handy teaching tool, but it’s also the way I write books,” she noted—place, people, and problems—highlighting her focus on grounding stories in genuine human experience.