Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a fiction author who writes paranormal romance, full of enchantment, intrigue, action and romance. My writing blends my background in psychology and my experiences travelling the world with a love of magic, fantasy and a happy ending. I’ve published two books in the Energetics Series so far, and the third is on the way.
I also write non-fiction, and recently published a book called ‘This is for you: A Creative Toolkit for Better Self-Care’, under the name Ellen M. Bard.
I’m a Chartered Occupational Psychologist, and continue to work as an international management consultant, which I have done for the last 18 years. I’ve worked in over 20 countries across Europe, Asia and the Middle East, including China, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia.
My passion for other lands and cultures helps inform my writing, as does my desire to try new things – from art classes to Krav Maga, the self-defence system.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The second book in the series of The Energetics, Tierra and the Warrior, takes inspiration from everywhere in my life. For example, some of the book is set in Egypt, where I’ve visited both for work and pleasure, and I love the history and sense of place it has. Other key locations in the series (so far!) are Thailand, America and Canada, all locations I know well.
I’ve been a (poor!) student of the self-defence system Krav Maga for a number of years, so the fighting style of Blaize is based on that.
The magic system is based on the Chakras, and I have been a student in yoga for many years, and even attended a yoga school for a year a few years ago where I went more deeply into the philosophy and background. This inspired me to use the Chakras and some of the concepts of yoga in my books.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My writing is done all over the place, and my laptop is critical to make sure I can take everything I need with me wherever I am. When I’m travelling for my consulting work, I could be writing in the evenings in hotel rooms, whilst in Thailand I share an office with my romantic partner, Fox. I bounce a lot of ideas off him. I also write at home, and in cafes. Or waiting for the Doctor, or a friend to meet me for dinner. Basically, anywhere, anytime.
I use two key tools to write – mind maps, which is how I usually begin collecting ideas for a book, and Scrivener, which is the tool I actually write the content in.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My favourite author in the paranormal romance genre is Illona Andrews. I adore the Hidden Legacy series. Nora Roberts is also very inspiring in the way she is able to write so many quality books in a short time – her output is astonishing. I also enjoy Laurell K Hamilton, Shelly Laurenston and Patricia Briggs. I’m a wide reader, and also enjoy science fiction and fantasy, crime, personal development, and books about writing.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on books 3 and 4 of the Energetics Series. Book 3 is in the editing stage, and book 4 is at the initial stage of plotting and outlining. Each of the books has a different hero and heroine, and I can reveal that book 3 is called Nixie and the Healer. Nixie is Blaize, from book 1’s, best friend.
What are you reading now?
I’m quite a voracious reader. I’m currently re-reading The Liar, by Nora Roberts, re-listening to The Truth by Terry Pratchett as an audiobook (it’s such a brilliant audiobook series), reading Shiang (Empire of Salt Book 2) by C.F. Iggulden which is an epic fantasy series. My partner also gave me HP Lovecraft’s The Complete Fiction for Christmas as a beautifully bound physical book, so I am working my way through that each night in bed as it’s too heavy to carry around! I keep track of what I’m reading on Goodreads, so readers can follow me and my reviews there if they’re interested.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I love the world of the energetics, so I’m going to continue in that series, and have 6 books currently planned. I have another paranormal romance series planned for once I’ve finished the Energetics. Then I am looking at a possible follow up to my non-fiction book on self-care for 2020. So I have a few projects planned!
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?
Such a hard question. I’d probably take the Hidden Legacy series by Illona Andrews.
Author Websites and Profiles
Ellen Bard Website
Ellen Bard Amazon Profile
Ellen Bard’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account