Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, I’m Emma Barry and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to write my first novel supported by funding from the Arts Council England for storytelling with a twist of personal development. Also, I’m learning how to narrate and produce the Audiobook version. I have written and published two anthologies of poetry under a pseudonym, Emily Halfpenny, with personal development themes throughout too.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is The Flat on the 7th Floor. It was inspired by the personal development books I have been reading and wishing I had learnt some things earlier. I read a lot of fiction as a young and new adult which inspired me to be adventurous in life as well as be entertained. I hope this book will be an enjoyable read for any age.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Oooh good question. I can write anywhere and at any time but one of my favourite ways to write is on a Sunday afternoon with an episode of Columbo on in the background. I say episode but they are actually more like films as they are 90 minutes long! I have watched all the episodes in the 10 series (and some of the episodes multiple times) I can switch between concentrating and watching my favourite parts!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I remember being obsessed by fiction authors as a teenager and read as many as I could get my hands on like Agatha Christie, J.T. Edson, Charles Dickens, Jeffrey Archer, Point Crime, Point Romance, The Saddle Club etc. Since mid twenties to now, the personal development books such as Stephen Covey, Rob Parsons, James Clear, David Bach etc.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on recording the Audiobook for The Flat on the 7th Floor, continue to promote all formats of the book and then I start writing the next book in the series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m learning more and more every day! So far I find that having an open mind to opportunities and a personal approach to keep going, promote regularly and to focus on one reader at a time is rewarding and fun.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
One of my quotes is “It’s never too late to give it a go.” E.L. Barry. There are lots of authors and readers AND there is room for you too. Give yourself permission to learn. Find a mentor and/or accountability partner to enjoy the journey with. Hire a professional Editor/Proof Reader/Cover designer. Give yourself contingency time. Read aloud your writing. Publish in all three formats. (Kindle, Paperback and Audiobook) Have fun!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
There are sooooo many choices but I will go with… “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time to plant a tree is now.”
What are you reading now?
For pleasure I am reading – Q is for Quarry – Sue Grafton
For work I am reading/listening to – Voiceover Narration – Dian Perry
For personal development I am reading – The Heart of Communication – Rob Parsons
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going all-in with writing the series – eek! I’m branching out to pursue collaboration and freelance work to reach young adults with personal development and life skills.
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?
Oooh so many choices but I will go with:
– The Power of Now – Eckhart Tolle (as I’ll probably need it to stay sane)
– Bear Grylls Ultimate Survival Handbook (I haven’t read it but I bet it would be useful)
– One Million Tiny Plays about Britain – Craig Taylor (It was a good laugh)
– Murder on the Orient Express – Agatha Christie (great book!)
Author Websites and Profiles
Emma Barry Website
Emma Barry Amazon Profile
Emma Barry’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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