Interview With Author Dawn Blair
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a Registered Hospice Nurse Case Manager who resides in Richmond, Virginia. I’m an avid animal lover who adores animals of all types, especially dogs. When not caring for hospice patients I try and dedicate as much of my time to volunteering with local Richmond area animal shelters and rescues. I live with her my husband and our gang of 5 dogs including three Pitbulls, a long-haired Chihuahua, and a smooth coat Brussels Griffon. I’m also what is known as a “warrior” of chronic Lyme disease and I’m still battling the illness today. “Me and Mr. Monks” is the first of hopefully many books in my future.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my latest book is “Me and Mr. Monks”. The book was inspired by my little 7lb. rescue dog that honestly was my best friend. He was the most special little boy. He came into my life on Valentine’s Day of 2015 and a love affair began. Although he was a rescue dog he in fact rescued me, he saved my life.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write very sporadically meaning wherever I am if I have a thought I start writing it down. It doesn’t matter what I’m doing or where I am or what time it is, if an idea pops into my head I start writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Although I don’t write much poetry I would have to say, Maya Angelou. She writes from the heart and she writes the truth.
What are you working on now?
Right now I am working on my second book, My Name is Bradley, which is about my rescued Pitbull Bradley. I rescued him from the euthanasia table. He was also our foster dog who had special needs from being physically beaten. He had severe neurological deficits; he would have seizures constantly. He’s the sweetest thing and the kindest dog. He was a dog with no name and had no worth to anyone until he met me. He’s very special to me.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The best website for me is https://mrmonks.com/
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Stay true to yourself and right from your heart. Write what you would want to read.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Keep fighting…something amazing is right around the corner”
What are you reading now?
I am reading a book called “The Sikhs”. It’s a book about the Sikh religion and although some of it is a difficult read it is so very interesting. I was inspired to learn more about the Sikh religion by a former patient of mine. I believe it’s always a great thing to learn about as much in the world as possible.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Promoting my book “Me and Mr. Monks and telling our beautiful story and also working on my second book about Bradley, our special needs dog.
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?
Well of course, I’d bring my own book “Me and Mr. Monks also “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou, “A Promised Land” by Barrack Obama and “Seabiscuit” by Laura Hillenbrand.
Author Websites and Profiles
Dawn Blair Author Profile on Smashwords
Dawn Blair’s Social Media Links