Photo: Holly Trost
Minnetonka’s Holly Trost dreamed of being an author. Prior to writing her first novel, she was early in her content marketing career and enjoyed posting her poetry on social media. “I was maybe in my mid-20s, and I really wanted to write a book,” she says. “But I had a young son, and it just wasn’t good timing. I didn’t think I would be capable until I was older and a more confident writer,” Trost says.
Trost found her spark one morning when she woke up with the idea for a time-travel story. She started writing her first novel, Lost Time, during COVID-19. Published by Koehler Books last September, the book follows Iris, a young woman who sets out in the woods during a moment of grief and insecurity. Suddenly, “The world shifts, and time unravels,” Trost says. Iris embarks on a time-travel journey through the “fractured versions of her life,” confronting her past to become the person she is meant to be.
“[Iris’ story] is relatable to my experiences and to struggles that a lot of women have gone through,” Trost says. Her connection to nature and spirituality were also significant sources of inspiration for Lost Time. “The woods have always been special for me growing up, and now it’s a magical place for me,” she says. While not specifically set locally, Trost says readers can easily imagine Iris’ journey taking place in an enchanting Minnesota forest.
The author feels empowered by the challenging journey of writing and publishing a debut novel. “Now that I’ve done it, I feel inspired to write more.” Trost says.
Lost Time is available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble.
