Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I delight in the simple things of life – painting, writing, and splashing about in rockpools being some of the may and varied activities she enjoys. I has taken a creative writing course and done much blogging and writing of articles over the years.
I have been an Occupational Therapist and Student Pastor in turn, and I now creates online courses and scribble fantastical stories. I am already on her second novel, called the Kalk Bay Mysteries, set in Kalk Bay, Cape Town, which involves fishermen, beautiful cottages, and characters based on my great, great aunts.
What aids my writing is my extensive travel and living amongst various cultures across the world. I loves people, and I loves finding out more about cultures across the world. This makes each setting annd culture into a character in the story – with their own, distinct personalities.. They are as an integral part of the plot as individuals are.
I have only written this book, Pocket Rainbow, as yet, but hope to write many, many more.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Pocket Rainbow is the name of my latest (and only) book. It was inspired by working with orphans and vulnerable children in Alexandra township, and by doing a creative writing course. I suddenly found a gift that I did not know I had.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
To be honest, not really. It would be interesting if I did, but no, sadly I dont’.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Agatha Christie, Alexandra Fuller, Dick Francis, Alexander McCall Smith, the Bible, Os Guiness.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on the ‘Kalk Bay Mysteries’, a novel set in Kalk Bay, full of fishermen, mysterious incidents, seagulls, crayfish and other mayhem.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am not experienced enough to know that yet
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just publish your book. Learn form the process as you go along.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Use your experiences in your writing – so that you can enrich it with hard reality.
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading a lot of internet articles on publishing.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I wish to develop this to a full-time career.
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?
The Bible – naturally.
The Survivors Handbook – no idea which one.
A Book on how to tell which plants are poisonous and which are medicinal.
A handbook on the categorisation of plants and animals.
Author Websites and Profiles
Karen Ess Website
Karen Ess Amazon Profile
Karen Ess’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile