Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Jen Paul. I’m a British writer that’s based in the south of France. I’ve always loved reading and writing since I first learned to read. One of the first Christmas presents that I asked for as a child was a type-writer because I wanted to write books! I’ve worked on lots of stories over the years but my main career as a magazine features writer has always taken up the lion’s share of my time. This summer I vowed to write a series of novellas for Amazon kindle Shorts, for the pure pleasure of writing. I have just published my first one.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It’s called ‘The Girl Lost At Sea’ and it’s a historical thriller and romance set in the south of France shortly before Roman times. It’s a love story, but I wanted to also explore the effects of living with many ongoing traumas, but doing it in a historical setting. This first one looks at PTSD, the next will deal with memory loss and depression. I hope to raise mental health awareness through these shorts, while also presenting a story that people find entertains them and that they can take at face value if they want.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I guess not. Waking up early is one that I do that many other writers do as well. You have to be passionate about writing to be able to get out of bed while the world’s asleep!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There’s so many that I love. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez has to be my favourite. I can pick it up and read at any page and be transported into their world.
What are you working on now?
I’m writing the second instalment in my novella series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m just starting out so I’m not sure. But I love learning so I hope to find out! I will report back and let you know!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just get up and write. If you can do 500 words a day you’ll have something tangible before you know it. Keep learning and be open to learning.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
What other people think of you is none of your business.
What are you reading now?
Wishful Drinking by Carrie Fisher. I can only hope to write a memoir that brilliant one day. Here’s hoping!
What’s next for you as a writer?
A full-length memoir!
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?
Bowlaway by Elizabeth McCracken, Lost Children Archive by Valeria Luiselli, IM by Isaac Mizrahi and Vacuum in the Dark by Jen Beagin.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jen Paul Amazon Profile
Jen Paul’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account