Interview with David Randal from Literary Titan

Kelsey’s Crossing follows a man just out of prison for committing election fraud who agrees to help with a voter referendum campaign, where he is given a second chance to make a difference. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

I started to think about Kelsey’s Crossing when volunteering at a men’s homeless shelter for a few years. I came to know the residents pretty well and discovered most are men of high character and standards despite their current life conditions. They are proud men. Yet, they live with the sadness that society will not likely provide a break or an opportunity for a “second chance.” I kept asking myself, “What if they could start over? Would their result be different?” I wanted to give them a victory. From there, I created for them a leader, Greg Smith, an ex-convict who also needed a second chance. It was a perfect partnership.

​What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?

I followed on the news a former presidential advisor who was released from prison for several crimes he had committed. I later observed that he defiantly returned to his old ways. I wondered, “What if he put his enormous talents to work for a good cause, like working for the homeless?” So, I rewrote Greg Smith’s story only in a positive way. It was important that Greg Smith’s journey was not void of struggle and self-reflection. He needed to wrestle with the guilt of his old life, self-loathing and all. I also believe that people who truly experience “change” have people in their lives who love them. Greg had plenty of that with his daughter, best friend, and new love interest, Christine. Ultimately, I allowed what was already in Greg’s soul to come out.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

The most important theme in Kelsey’s Crossing is that we are all human, which means we will likely make mistakes. The old saying, “I zigged when I should have zagged,” comes to mind. Sometimes, those mistakes can be fatal. But, given the opportunity, “crossing” to another place where honesty and truth prevail is possible? Besides, I’ve always been a sucker for an underdog who fights for truth and justice.

https://literarytitan.com/2025/03/25/struggle-and-self-reflection/