Interview With Author Colleen Jiron
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am corn-bred and corn-fed from America’s heartland. But life’s trails led me to reside in Washington, California, Minnesota, Michigan, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico, with a brief stint in Austria. After 14 years in the travel industry, I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Neuropsychology, allowing me to work with neurodivergent individuals of all ages and train other professionals for the next 20 years. My formal career ended with 6 joyful years running elementary school libraries. Here is what keeps me going through thick and thin: For almost 60 years, I have been a yogini, with ongoing study and practice rooted in traditions stretching back more than 7.000 years. My first fiction, The Well (now in 3rd edition), won the Chanticleer Paranormal Award and was a Finalist in the Indie Book Awards. I’ve written three more fictions, soon to be released, as well as a self-help, Living the Real Tree of Life, and co-authored two books about plant medicines. My goal is to add kindness to the world, as we sorely need it. May you find compassion, civility, common sense and a little magic on your own trails!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Soon to be released, A Waltz Across Tim is inspired by the legends and lore of my husband’s Spanish, Irish, and Native American ancestors spanning 500 years of New Mexico history, wrapped in a bibliomystery and contemporary romance:).
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My critique partner and I are very fond of “Save the Cat,” except we call it “Beat the Cat,” because the plot structure is laid out in “beats.” Sorry, cat-lovers, it was a slip of the tired tongue and now it just makes us laugh when we need a release from stress. I actually like cats, even though I’m allergic to them.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Leif Enger, Anna Quindlen, Daniel Mason, Louise Erdrich, Linda Hogan, Edward Abbey, Agatha Christie, Tony Hillerman, Charles Frazier, Maggie O’Farrell, Paul Horgan, and so many more!
What are you working on now?
I am soon releasing Book 1 in a women’s fiction/light mystery 3-book series and am plotting out Book 2.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Not sure. Is it you?
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just as everyone tells you – don’t get discouraged. And keep up with the publishing industry’s shenanigans.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When you’ve written yourself into a corner, stop struggling, look and listen. I’ve had answers “come” to me from the strangest places.
What are you reading now?
No Two Persons
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d like to do more interviews and booktalks. I love interacting with other readers!
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 am a lifelong yoga practitioner/teacher. So, Daniel Odier’s Tantric Quest. Heroic & Outrageous Women edited by Alexander; Louise Erdrich’s Bingo Palace, and Ron Brezsny’s Pronoia.
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