Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a retiree who finally had time to indulge my two greatest passions, reading and writing. I’ve written and self-published two books to date.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Bodies Were Burned. It was the result of my first book, Bodies Everywhere, which is a series of short stories I wrote for my Freelance Writing course from an on-line college. My professor kept telling me I needed to make a series out of these stories. At first it was just going to be the one book, but I enjoyed the idea so much and the book was nominated for an award that I said “Why Not!”
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m very OCD about dialogue. I’ve read too many books where the dialogue either slowed down the story or confused it. So, every paragraph, chapter, sometimes sentence is read to my partner before I commit to using it.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Agatha Christie, P.D. James, Edgar Allen Poe, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Wilkie Collins. I could go on and on, especially with English literature.
What are you working on now?
I’m presently doing research before starting book #3 in the Bodies Everywhere Series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My method is to hit every free social media spot on the internet. I also really push my website, which is set up to promote and encourage others.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Once you decide on a story, do your research first. Do some sample short stories and have an impartial person, like my professor in school, read them and ask for an honest opinion. You could ask other authors for advice. If your stories aren’t shaking any authorial trees, try a different genre. Most importantly, don’t get discouraged or go into self-doubt mode. Believe in yourself, then others will start believing in you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
This came from my mother every time I struggled writing something. “You can do anything you put your mind to.” Long after my mother passed away, I’ve remembered that and kept going.
What are you reading now?
The Greek Coffin Mystery by Ellery Queen.
What’s next for you as a writer?
To keep doing what I’m doing now. Finding new and exciting stories to tell.
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?
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
The Lady In White by Wilkie Collins
The Complete Works of Edgar Allen Poe
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
Author Websites and Profiles
Barbara A Martin Website
Barbara A Martin Amazon Profile
Barbara A Martin Author Profile on Smashwords
Barbara A Martin’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account