Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I love to travel and explore new places, which usually means each of my novels is set in a different locale. I have been published in formats from poetry and short stories to full-length fiction. I currently have 21 full length novels on the market. I also had the opportunity through my work to write and co-produce a documentary on state history which won state and national awards. Just for fun, each year I write a Christmas short story for family and friends—some heartfelt and others whimsical – but always a gift from my heart. These have been compiled into a book called “Christmas Quilt Anthology”. I have an MA in Communication and have taught from Kindergarten to college. I also love to create art through pottery, fused glass and quilts.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Loving Charlie Forever” is my latest and it is a time travel romance. The inspiration was panic driven as I had no idea where my next story idea would come from. I thought about a western, set in South Dakota so I started researching the gold period and outlaws of the day. That’s when it hit me — why not write a story about an author who goes to South Dakota to research and write his next novel about gold mining and outlaws.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write on bits of paper, in a journal, postit notes, whatever I can get my hands on at the moment a thought or scene comes to me. Once it was on the back of a wedding invitation. I don’t write by schedule. Some days it may be a page or nothing at all. Other days its all day and into the next morning.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I fell in love with romance reading Kathleen Woodiwiss, Amanda Quick and Catherine Coulter.
What are you working on now?
I’m in the pre-panic period of brainstorming my next fiction story which is too bare at the moment to say more. I am also working on a creativity journal for writers.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am on several Facebook groups such as Historical Romance Addicts, Books Go Social Readers Group. I have a website and an Amazon author’s page. I’m not sure there is a “best method” as each attracts a certain demographic and since I write in several genre, I try to promote accordingly.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Ignore advice. For every time you hear “don’t do this”, you’ll read a book (or two) where the author did exactly that. I’m not talking about basic good grammar. It’s more things like “head hopping” (POV switches) or writing a story whose subject is considered passe.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write from your heart and/or write what you know.
What are you reading now?
Wallace J. Nichols’ “Blue Mind”, a book about the science behind being near or on water for a happier, healthier lifestyle. I also periodically write in “642 Things to Write About” which is a creativity journal.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I hope to continue writing stories as long as there are readers. I have no plans for a national best seller (though that would be nice). I simply enjoy telling stories.
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?
At least one would be “How to Survive on a desert island”! Another would be a blank journal so I could write my experiences. Third might be a very large book with the insides cut out so I could pack it full of snacks or a flask.
Author Websites and Profiles
Barbara Baldwin Website
Barbara Baldwin Amazon Profile
Barbara Baldwin’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile