Interview With Author Ruth O’Neill
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Ruth O’Neill grew up in the ancient Roman city of Bath England, a beautiful peaceful city whose locations are often referred to in her first book Sunshine & Tears. Ruth has always enjoyed helping others and is very committed to her job as a Teaching Assistant for literacy, where she supports young people with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities at the City Academy Bristol. Ruth has three children as well as three young grandchildren who now take up a big part of her life. She lives with her long-term partner Brendan, in the southwest part of the country.
Ruth has just released her fifth book.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I’m deeply passionate about my book, The Sisters. Having two sisters of my own, I understand the importance of sisterhood in life. In the book, I’ve drawn on my own relationship with my sisters, incorporating some of their key attributes into the story.
While my book explores themes of betrayal, hurt, lies, and deceit, it’s important to emphasise that these elements do not reflect the dynamics within my own relationship with my sisters. In fact, it was an enjoyable challenge to infuse these darker aspects into my characters, and I believe it showcases one of my strengths as a writer.
Writing The Sisters has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience, and I felt a sense of sadness when it came time to pen those final words: The End.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Editing my Work – I re-read and edit my manuscript 30 times before I send it off to my editor.
I’ve done this with all 5 of my books. It now a sort of superstition.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love reading as well as writing psychological thrillers and my favourite authors in this genre are:
K.L. Slater, Keri Beevis, Valerie Keogh and B.A. Paris.
What are you working on now?
Another psychological, suspense, thriller involving a missing six-year-old girl. A link to her mothers past, might just save her.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
All social media platforms. I’m a member of many writing groups, and I gain good exposure when I interact with other members and author’s.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Establish an online presence through social media, a website, or a blog. Connect with readers and fellow authors. Develop a distinctive writing voice that sets you apart. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
One piece of advice is to “write what you know.” This doesn’t necessarily mean limiting yourself to personal experiences, but rather, it encourages authors to tap into their emotions, insights, and observations to create authentic and relatable stories. By drawing from your own understanding of the world, you can infuse your writing with a genuine and unique voice that resonates with readers.
What are you reading now?
The Nurse by Valerie Keogh.
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?
To Kill A Mocking Bird by Harper Lee. Harper Lee’s work is celebrated for its exploration of moral and social issues.
The Three Women by Valerie Keogh. I thoroughly enjoyed the turns and twists in this novel. I was misled so many times.
Blink by K.L. Slater. It’s a psychological thriller which is full of tension, despair, foul play, and emotion. All things I love.
Author Websites and Profiles
Ruth O’Neill’s Social Media Links
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