Interview With Author Cheryl Ilov
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello! My name is Cheryl Ilov, and I am the author of two books, which still manages to surprise me. I never planned on becoming an author, nor did I consider myself a writer. However, I have always had a passion for storytelling. I suppose my writing career began by chronicling medical documents and progress reports for thousands of patients as a medical professional in both respiratory as well as physical therapy. Along the way, I discovered that weaving stories along with treatment modalities helped educate my patients and was a powerful tool in their recovery and ongoing progress.
I reluctantly started a blog in 2011, when a marketing “expert” I was working with set one up for me even though I had no idea what a blog was or why I would possibly want one. Once I was able to figure it out, I began writing about health, fitness, and life in general. My open, friendly, and sometimes whimsical writing style captivated my followers, and several years later I began writing short stories, several of which have been published in “The Pueblo Chieftain,” a local newspaper, as well as “FINALLY! Magazine,” an international online publication for the over fifty population.
I wrote my first book, “Forever Fit and Flexible: Feeling Fabulous at Fifty and Beyond,” in an attempt to share my personal and professional experience as a physical therapist in private practice to help people in every stage of life enjoy a healthy, vibrant, active, and pain-free lifestyle. Although my intention in writing the book was to establish myself as an expert in my field, attract new clients, and reach a larger audience with my positive message of hope, the book made me an award-winning author and was a #1 Best Seller on Amazon.
My professional career as an author was launched, at the tender young age of sixty-one.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My recently released book, “The Reluctant Ninja: How A Middle-Aged Princess Became A Warrior Queen,” was inspired long before I even thought about writing a book. It is about my journey into the male dominated and testosterone infested world of men and martial arts, although I did not go willingly. I was literally dragged onto the mat, kicking and screaming, and not in a good way, because I just knew I was going to hate it. Then why, you might ask, did I start training in the first place?
It was because I was carrying the burden of a deep, dark secret which was pulling me into the vortex of hell called PTSD, and my acupuncturist convinced me that training (with him), would help me heal from the trauma. Surprisingly enough, I didn’t hate it. I fell in love with the training, the art, and I really fell in love with the sense of strength, power, and confidence I gained through training. Ten years later I became my teacher’s first female black belt. In twenty years of teaching, he had never had a woman achieve such a high rank.
The story, its ups and downs, highs and lows, is one of triumph over tragedy, and illustrates the strength and resilience of the human spirit. I hope it can inspire others to find their own confidence, strength, and inner power.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really, although I often get inspiration for great ideas at the strangest times. Like when I’m driving or at the grocery store, which causes me to talk out loud and have vibrant conversations with myself. It’s not a problem when I’m alone in the car, but it seems to make the other shoppers uncomfortable, because they get out of my path in a hurry when they see me coming their way.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The Help, Fried Green Tomatoes, The Five People You Meet In Heaven, The Secret Life of Bees, and Bridges of Madison County. All of them make me laugh, cry, and marvel at the power of relationships and the magic of human nature.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on a follow up book to “The Reluctant Ninja,” which shares many of the secrets, philosophies, and life lessons I learned in my training which readers can use to apply to every aspect of their lives without spending twenty years in a smelly dojo like I did. I took the hits so you don’t have to. You’re welcome!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Podcasts are a great way to promote my books as well as websites which connect readers with authors that resonate with them.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes! Focus on the process of writing rather than the end result. Enjoy the journey, and don’t second guess yourself along the way. If you need help, hire a reputable writing coach, and a good editor is a must. When you feel stuck, walk away from the project and go for a walk, get some exercise and fresh air, and you will come back with a renewed sense of creativity and energy. Finally, don’t give up and don’t doubt yourself. There is an audience out there just waiting to hear from you!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Start moving and keep moving, in every aspect of your life.
What are you reading now?
Verbal Judo, The Aware Athlete, and Mosaic Heart.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Along with my follow up ninja book, I am working on publishing the story about my family history, which I think might be a series of three volumes.
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, Fried Green Tomatoes, The Five People You Meet In Heaven, The Secret Life of Bees, and Bridges of Madison County. What can I say….I love those books!
Author Websites and Profiles
Cheryl Ilov’s Social Media Links