Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve got dozens of manuscripts in the wings, but so far I’ve published 1 fiction novel, as well as 2 poetry journals.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Place to Call Home is the first in a series called The Ellises. Historical fiction has always appealed to me, and the storyline was something that came to mind over 25 years ago when I was an impressionable teenager who loved the idea of writing about family, love, and loss in a historical setting. I also wanted to challenge myself by choosing a geographical area I was a little bit familiar with to give me something to research and turn into a plausible tale, while paying tribute to my East Coast roots. The plot went on to change 3 times since then, until it became its published version. Book 2 and subsequent books will eventually complete the vision I had for the characters overall.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to get my best ideas when I take a walk, or just before falling asleep/first waking. Maybe not so unusual, but that’s my process!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
LM Montgomery, Laura Ingalls Wilder, the Bronte sisters, Edgar Allan Poe, Mark Twain, Louis May Alcott, Tracey Bateman, Tracie Peterson, Colleen Coble, Melody Carlson, and all the authors at Love Inspired have shaped my style and content over the years. Books that left a huge impression on me are An American Tragedy, Wuthering Heights, the Anne of Green Gables series, Nancy Drew mysteries, Jacob Have I Loved, and Say Goodnight Gracie.
What are you working on now?
Worth Hoping For is Book 2 in The Ellises Series, and my goal is to have it wrapped up for release before August.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook, because word of mouth remains the biggest way to reach people! A close second is Amazon.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write as often as you can, even when you think you don’t have anything to say! It keeps your creativity flowing. But when you still get stuck, do the things you love. It will help pave the way for new ideas, guaranteed. Don’t take for granted that you have ideas – see them through to completed manuscript, or you may never get it published.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Do what you love, and it will never feel like work.
What are you reading now?
Pelican Point by Irene Hannon.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to branch out to other genres of writing. Not only do I want to keep writing Historical Christian Fiction, but also Young Adult, Self-Help, and Contemporary Women’s Fiction and Christian Fiction.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Bible, Girls Choice, A Christmas Carol, and Rilla of Ingleside.
Author Websites and Profiles
Natasha L. Polak Website
Natasha L. Polak Amazon Profile
Natasha L. Polak’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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