Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a sales professional, ESL and Creative Writing Instructor and author who has written over 50 books in various genres under multiple pen names. However, my most fulfilling project to date has been this 3-part book, How to be Happy, a project designed to motivate and inspire. I’ve lived and worked in various countries (the Caribbean, Latin America, USA). I now live in Ontario, Canada, with my teenage son.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, How to be Happy, was inspired by the fact that, after having been diagnosed with an incurable illness which has left me disabled, I am now happier than I was when I was at my healthiest. That’s because I’ve found the secret sauce, the ultimate happiness hack for living a fulfilled life. That’s what this book is all about.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Despite the advances in technology, I still write by putting pen to paper; that’s how I am best able to flesh out my ideas.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve learned so much from the books of self development and time management guru, Brian Tracy (Eat That Frog, etc.).
I’ve also enjoyed, and been influenced by, all the Marketing books written by Al Ries.
What are you working on now?
At the moment, I’m working on a sweet cowboy romance about a mail order bride who ended up going to the wrong farmstead by accident. Of course, like the happily-ever-after outcomes that romance readers love, it worked out wonderfully in the end!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The method that gave me the most success was Bookbub, but upfront payment is expensive and the chances of being accepted are slim. Now, my main promo method is simply giving away the first book free. If readers like the first book, hopefully they will move on to get the next ones in the series.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Even when sales slow down, keep on writing. You never know when one of your books may take off, or when a new platform may open. If so, you want to be ready with tons of other material for your new-found audience/ readers. (Catherine Bybee’s story of success – when the ebook revolution happened, she was ready!)
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Start your day by tackling your most important task. Eat That Frog – Brian Tracy.
What are you reading now?
Mastering the Money Mindset by H. Warren Browne
What’s next for you as a writer?
Focus on motivational material, whether nonfiction or fiction.
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?
How to be Happy – J. A. Powell (to keep me happy)
The Wolf and the Dove – Kathleen Woodiwiss (to find escape in romance)
Million Dollar Habits – Brian Tracy (to keep me productive)
Author Websites and Profiles
Judy Powell Website