Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I grew up and still live in Northern Ohio. Though born with Cerebral Palsy, I’ve never allowed my disability to define me. Rather, I’ve used my experiences to breathe life into characters who have physical limitations, but like me, are determined not to let them stand in the way of the life they want. My debut novel, “Husband in Hiding”, was released in 2015 and was well-received by readers. I’m excited about my upcoming love story, to be released by Vinspire Publishing on October 15, 2018. I may only be able to type with one hand, but I write with my whole heart!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It’s “Forgetting My Way Back to You”. I based it on the fact that our experiences—good and bad—shape us, and in painful moments, it’s easy to wish you could erase that baggage. As I wrote it, I reflected on how taking one person or event out of your life would impact it. In some cases, it would be freeing and great, but in a lot of others, like Charlee’s in the book, it would rob a person of many of his/her core components.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I used to have to play a game of solitaire or do a sudoku before I wrote every day, but I guess I’ve outgrown that now!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Nicholas Sparks. His style inspired me for sure. I love how simple it is, yet how it stirs your emotion. After I read “A Walk to Remember,” I had to read all his works…and write some of my own.
What are you working on now?
Another mystery. I’ve written a four-book mystery series, which “Husband in Hiding” began, and I just started a brand-new story that could evolve into a series. It’s about a psychiatrist who becomes an amateur sleuth after she receives a threatening note.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use social media, but my preference is my website, KarinaBartow.com.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
From beginning to end, writing is a learning process and one that requires perseverance. Just in creating a piece—poem, short story, essay, or novel—, there may be times you want to give up. Sometimes, I do. But if this is what brings you happiness and satisfaction, stick with it, no matter what anyone may say or even your own doubts.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best things in life are worth waiting for.
What are you reading now?
Well, I’m on a free trial of People magazine and can barely keep up! I also have a cozy mystery waiting for me on the shelf.
What’s next for you as a writer?
After “Forgetting My Way Back to You” comes out, I hope to further pursue finding a home for my mystery series, The Unde(a)feted Detective Series.
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, “A Walk to Remember,” and anything from “The Hannah Swensen Series”.
Author Websites and Profiles
Karina Bartow Website
Karina Bartow Amazon Profile
Karina Bartow’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account