Text Me a Story: Interview with Ella Hall

Ella Hall is stunning: She is statuesque and regal, with a beauty others would pay top dollar to achieve. With the glam of a social media starlet, but the grace of a high-fashion editorial model, it is hard to pinpoint exactly which category she might fall in.

Hall is, of course, a model and actor. But, below the surface, you will find a woman whose greatest trait is her compassion. Hall (who was a foster parent for the better part of a decade) is also a certified nursing assistant and has extensive experience as an in-home care aide. Already published in several anthologies, Hall has embarked on her first book, a memoir titled Text Me: Loving Your Enemy is Hall’s.  As the name suggests, the book utilizes an unusual (yet universally relatable) style – the modern-day text. While it is an unconventional format, it is very, very effective at drawing you in, allowing readers to be the fly on the wall witnessing the most intimate and chilling moments of the author’s life.

You’ve had a very rich life history. What caused you to land on writing your first book at this stage in your life?

There’s so much domestic violence in relationships spanning all ages and races. I feel that it’s overlooked and it is hard for victims to come forward or be confident when wanting to leave such a tragic situation. I wanted to share some of the colorful relationships I experienced and how leaving such tragic relationships changed my life for the better. I want others to know there’s a life outside of abusive circumstances. I experienced a lot of abuse from each relationship, whether it was mental, physical, verbal, or emotional. I call myself a survivor.

Your book is so deeply personal. What was the writing process like? Were there moments you had to take a pause?

Writing the chapter about my belated husband was hard. I definitely had to stop typing for a day or two. But I wanted to make sure I finished the novel, so I picked up where I left off. I was on a mission to spread examples of controlling narcissist behaviors and similar topics to the world, and that’s exactly what I have done. 

What message do you want to convey through your book?

To never give up, and know you’re not alone. There are many resources available to help all genders experiencing abuse. As frightened as your mind tells you it is, you must still take that chance to reach out for help, but always do so safely. Never put yourself (or, if applicable, your children) in danger. There’s always a way out. 

What inspired you to incorporate your personal texts as the main component of your memoir?

I wanted to show people that the stuff you see in movies has happened in my real life. There is so much domestic violence in the form of physical, mental, and emotional abuse; it’s disturbing. It takes so much courage to let people know you’re a victim. I was tired of feeling ashamed and blaming myself. Re-reading all the text messages allowed me to realize that I was not to blame. It gave me a sort of relief and confidence. It allowed me to connect with myself as a woman and know my worth. 

Are there any upcoming books you’re working on now?

I’m working on two novels as we speak. One I don’t wish to reveal the details of, but if you love fantasy novels you will enjoy the one I’m writing. The second one is another form of my unique style of writing. I have written down my dreams for the past three years and recently decided to turn them into a book. It has Goosebumps or Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark vibes. 

Who would play you if Text Me were made into a Netflix series?

One of my favorite actresses is Scarlett Johansson. It would be a great honor if she played me. I know she’s typecast as a superhero in the Marvel movies, but hey: You never know. 

For more information, please visit https://www.ella-hall.com

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE and at thehotline.org