In this insightful Writers and Authors interview, debut novelist Eileen Lynch reflects on her unique journey from ethics program manager and high school educator to literary fiction author. Her first novel, Splenditude, published by High Frequency Press, is a powerful exploration of mental health, personal growth, and emotional resilience through the lens of main character Deirdre Collins—an aspiring writer navigating both internal struggles and life-changing relationships.
A Life Rich with Storytelling Inspiration
Eileen Lynch’s road to authorship wasn’t a straight path but a deeply enriching one. From her early days as a budding writer in elementary school to her professional experience in education and ethics, Lynch has gathered a wealth of real-world material that informs her fiction.
“The jobs I held as I earned a living gave me settings and characters,” Lynch explains. “It was my father who told me that I needed something to write about.”
Her time working with behaviorally challenged students inspired Splenditude’s central themes—how mental illness is misunderstood, how individuals cope with depression and anxiety, and how modern society both exacerbates and attempts to address these challenges.
Splenditude: A Story Rooted in Psychology and Setting
The novel centers on Deirdre Collins, a woman who dreams of becoming part of the Chicago literary world but must first confront her own inner turmoil. Her journey takes her from the bustling city to the tranquil, awe-inspiring landscapes of New Mexico—mirroring Lynch’s own cross-country experiences.
“The landscape itself can inspire or humble an individual,” Lynch notes, speaking of New Mexico’s natural beauty. “There’s a push and pull between the energy of a big city versus open areas.”
Lynch weaves the contrasting environments of Illinois and New Mexico into Deirdre’s personal evolution, creating a richly atmospheric backdrop to her psychological journey. Buy now on Amazon
Exploring Mental Health with Authenticity
Drawing from her background in special education and personal observation, Lynch infuses the novel with authentic depictions of anxiety, depression, and the road to recovery.
“The students I met struggling with anxiety, depression, identity, and other psychological challenges were my inspiration,” Lynch says.
In Splenditude, Deirdre’s stay in a behavioral hospital and her work with at-risk teens provide a raw and honest lens into the lived experience of mental illness—without sacrificing narrative drive or emotional complexity. The relationship between Deirdre and Max, two characters coping with illness in vastly different ways, adds another layer of human depth to the novel.
From Workshops to the Written Page
Lynch has honed her craft in diverse writing communities, including workshops in Taos, Albuquerque, and the University of Chicago. These environments gave her valuable tools—from learning how to start a story effectively to experiencing the vulnerability of reading aloud in public.
“Through The Writer’s Hotel, I learned the importance of editing,” she adds.
Her educational background also plays a major role in the novel’s themes of transformation and growth. Teaching, particularly in special education and ESL, allowed her to witness firsthand how students adapt, learn, and persevere—experiences that greatly inform her characters’ emotional arcs.
What Does “Splenditude” Mean?
The novel’s unique title, Splenditude, is a creative fusion of “splendid” and “attitude”—a term that reflects Deirdre’s evolution.
“It’s meant to show how Deirdre’s journey evolves as she ages and grows,” Lynch shares.
This blend of struggle and hope defines the emotional tone of the novel, offering readers a path toward understanding and resilience.
Looking Ahead: New Projects in Progress
Following Splenditude, Eileen Lynch is working on a short story collection organized into three sections—Old Chicago, Difficult Kids, and Larkins—exploring themes such as childhood pressure and generational memory. She’s also in the early stages of a new novel that tackles children and gun violence, a topic she feels passionately about.
“Check High Frequency Press for further details,” she says, hinting at more powerful storytelling on the horizon.
A Final Note of Hope
Despite the heavy subject matter, Lynch’s ultimate goal is to spark hope in readers—especially those who may see parts of themselves in Deirdre’s journey.
“I hope that I’ve told an engaging story that might open a window on hope for those who struggle.”
Whether you’re a reader drawn to psychological fiction or a writer navigating your own path, Eileen Lynch’s story is a reminder that vulnerability, discipline, and compassion are powerful tools—on and off the page.
Read Splenditude by Eileen Lynch:
📖 Amazon
📚 Bookshop.org
🌐 Learn more at eileenlynch.com or High Frequency Press
Interested in psychological fiction, mental health themes, and emotional storytelling?
Splenditude is a literary debut you won’t want to miss.
