Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have four published books, and another two coming out soon. I began my writing career as early as the age of fourteen. At fifteen I was already a published author. I was born in Iran from Armenian origin. I began life thinking I would become a musician, but turned out to be an author, and I love it!
My motto in life is that nothing is impossible. Indeed, once you set your mind on accomplishing a task, you should never give up until you achieve your purpose. I also believe in miracles, as seem in my book, “The Apple Tree Blossoms in the Fall” – which is evident from the title of the book. In my novels, I like to share with the reader my international experiences, as well as include characteristics of different cultures.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book which will be published within three months, is called, “Looking For Georges Bizet on Planet Heaven.” What inspired me to write this book was my love for Opera Carmen, composed by the above eighteenth-century French composer. When Bizet performed Carmen for the first time in Paris, the next day critics destroyed his work in the Parisian newspapers. The musician died heart-broken at the early age of thirty-six. Ironically, immediately after his death, Georges Bizet became popular and loved for his Carmen Opera. I have always wondered how Bizet would feel if he were to find out about his post mortem fame.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I mostly like to write when I am on vacation. Also, very early in the morning when my mind is fresh and bubbling with creative ideas.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
For my creative memoire, “The Apple Tree Blossoms in the Fall,” I was influenced by Jeanette Walls’ autobiography, “The Glass Castle.” If you haven’t read this book yet, I highly recommend it. It is one of my favorite reads.
What are you working on now?
I just finished writing my manuscript, “Looking for Georges Bizet on Planet Heaven,” and “The Adventures of Little Acorn, ” which is a children’s story book, and haven’t had a chance to think about a new project.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I find that the best way to promote my books is through word of mouth and different sites on the internet, namely: the Goodreads giveaways, on line radio interviews, local libraries, and local TV station interviews.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Once you have completed writing your book, don’t think you are done. I suggest that you put it aside for a while, and then go back to it and read your manuscript with critical eyes. That’s when you’ll come across errors and imperfections in your work. Writing a perfect book is all about rewriting until you are fully satisfied.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I got was , as a writer, one should not get crushed when one receives rejections from agents and publishers. Rejections are common. Even the most well-known authors got many, before they were published. Therefore, we should believe in ourselves and remember that we are special and that we can achieve becoming a known author if we continue believing in ourselves.
What are you reading now?
I just finished reading Stephen King’s “Revival.” Contrary to critics’ claims, I did not find the book to be a masterpiece. I am now Reading Jane Austen’s collection of: Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park and Persuasion.
What’s next for you as a writer?
All these years that I have been busy writing, I have given little time to really get my name out among the readers. Now, I would very much like to seriously work on promoting my books; which while being entertaining and adventurous, are also cultural and informative
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 Help. One Thousand White Women, Of Mice and Men, and The Glass Castle
Author Websites and Profiles
Armineh Ohanian Website
Armineh Ohanian Amazon Profile
Armineh Ohanian’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account