Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I choose to be a multi-genre Author because I have too many stories to share! I have written and self-published eleven books and I’m working on my twelfth – a horror novella about what happens to a man who uses a magical typewriter to make ideas come to life. I was born in Switzerland and live in Canada. We boast an incredible Autumn, but unfortunately, it is always too short!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The title of my work in progress is Q.W.E.R.T.Y. Honestly, whenever I start a new book, the title always dawns on me first and then I revolve the story around it! I’m a little backwards that way, but then again, I’ve never been one to follow any set rules. That’s the beauty of being an artist: creative freedom!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
To elaborate on the previous question, I guess it’s unusual to begin with the title. After I settle on the title, I create the book cover. I write the story from beginning to end. I suppose I imagine myself in a bookstore, as a reader. I see the book as a reader does: title, cover, inside text…I also edit as I write which I hear is a big no-no, but according to who? If it works for you, I say, go for it!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am a huge Jack Finney fan and he inspired me to try my hand at writing Time Travel. His time travel books still have a prominent place on my bookshelf. I also own all of Richard Paul Evans’s books. He writes a Christmas themed book every year and I have borrowed this tradition and recently published “The Christmas Miracle”. Finally, I keep a stack of antique books in plain view. They date as far back as 1854. They are meant to remind me that the world has always needed, and will always need, books. (Not to mention they are beautiful!)
What are you working on now?
I’m working on Q.W.E.R.T.Y. now and I want to go back to Time Travel in January of next year. (I think there’s a small pun in there somewhere!)
Time Travel has always intrigued me. No matter what, though, love is a prominent theme in all of my books, including the horrors.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I find Twitter is a fantastic outlet. (That’s how i found you!). It’s an international stage and I’m able to connect with people all over the world. The Writer’s Community is fantastic. Writers support each other and offer great advice or input, and we just “understand each other.” I’m grateful to all of my Author friends.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
It’s simple, really.
Be bold. Be brave. Be you.
Your unique voice will draw people in. Don’t try to mimic other Authors.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Let go of the past, but hold it dear.
This holds true in all areas of life but if you want more writing advice: don’t think that your 5th book will be similar to book 1. You will evolve and that’s more than okay. However, that fact doesn’t diminish your accomplishment with book 1.
What are you reading now?
I have a huge “to be read” pile and my next read is Julia Benally’s latest, “Pariahs”. Then it’s on to Peter Hartog’s, “Bloodlines” and Shannon Reber’s “The Key” and “The Girl in White”.
What’s next for you as a writer?
To write one book after another until I’m awarded the “world’s oldest Author” medal.
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?
I can only choose four!? Let’s see, Gone With the Wind. Time and Again by Finney, and, “The Gift” and “Michael’s Choice” – my two part thriller series.
Since this is the last question, I want to say thank-you very much for the opportunity!
Author Websites and Profiles
Barbara Avon Website
Barbara Avon Amazon Profile
Barbara Avon’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account