Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a mom, first and foremost, but throughout the years, I’ve always come back to writing. I have three published novels.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Dandelion Summer. I was actually out weeding my flower beds when I thought about a mother and daughter bonding – reluctantly – over dandelions. It’s not a pleasant chore (at least not to me), but it’s a time without other distractions. And even if there is little conversation, the shared effort makes a difference. Of course, there is much, much more in the story. The dandelions are simply a vehicle that helped the rest of the story bloom.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Seeing I only know my own routines, who’s to say if they’re unusual. One thing I like to do is write ideas on 3×5 index cards. Then I can organize them later, putting them in the order they need to appear in the story.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have always loved Agatha Christie. I like trying to figure out the story, but I don’t want the answer to be too obvious. Other than that, books in general inspire me. There is so much variety and creativity out there. What a wonderful world is opened up when you open up a book!
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a series of children’s picture books that are humorous looks at children, their fears, their pickiness, and ultimately their joy. The first one is called It Was a Dark and Squeaky Night.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I wish I knew. What works one time doesn’t always work the next time.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read, read, read, and write, write, write. And then get feedback from people who will be honest with you. Don’t take offense when you need to make changes, recognizing that you’re all just trying to make it better.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Murder your darlings – It has been attributed to various writers, but editing out the things you’re attached to, but serve no purpose in the story, is hard but necessary.
What are you reading now?
I recently finished several Michael Connelly books. I’m about to start a mystery set in the 1800s.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Mapping out my children’s book 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?
Scriptures, The Book Thief, and Watership Down.
Author Websites and Profiles
Mary Ellen Bramwell Website
Mary Ellen Bramwell Amazon Profile
Mary Ellen Bramwell’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile