Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Sarafina Bianco. I am a survivor of financial, emotional, sexual and physical abuse. Having left my abuser five years ago, I took to the blogosphere to help myself recover (before I knew there were rehabilitation programs for abuse survivors). Now, after four years of blogging and three years of trauma therapy, I’ve written my story into a book, my first, to be released on October 1st: the first day of National Domestic Violence Awareness month. My book, a memoir, is entitled The House on Sunset.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The House on Sunset was inspired by the abusive relationship I held secret for five years. Although my family and friends knew the relationship was tumultuous, they had no idea of the nightmare I lived. The nightmare, however, didn’t stop when I left him. In the aftermath I lost my car and house, and I had nothing left.
Once I was better able to cope with the aftermath (PTSD and body dysmorphic disorder), I began detailing bits of my life to people I trusted, and it became clear I needed to use my voice as a way to reach other women who felt alone in their lives.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes. As a former high school English teacher, I often times break rules I forced my kids to follow. I write in fragments often, mimicking the brokenness I felt. I also begin sentences with conjunctions, to stay as conversational and informal as possible. It is my belief that when we discuss such personal issues, it’s critical the audience can latch on to your voice. In order to make this possible, I write like I speak.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Though I have read many memoirs, I cannot say they have inspired me to write this. I am a literature junkie, loving Mark Twain, Slyvia Plath and Virginia Woolf like my life depends on it. Kurt Vonnegut and Leo Tolstoy, too. What influences me is honesty. Poking at the ugly bits in life without flinching, not to make people uncomfortable, but to show others they are not alone.
What are you working on now?
Having just finished The House on Sunset, I plan to take a month or so off, focusing only on my blog and marketing the book. I will, eventually, write a follow up to The House on Sunset, detailing my recovery process and my rediscovery of who I am.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Twitter, Facebook and my blog (http://sarafinabianco.com) have all contributed to my success equally. I am forever indebted to my friends (fans) who promote and support me in ways I don’t deserve.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write through the fear.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write through the fear.
What’s next for you as a writer?
The second half of my story. Where life begins to be survivable.
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 Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Anna Karenina by Tolstoy
and Bossy Pants by Tina Fey
Author Websites and Profiles
Sarafina Bianco Website
Sarafina Bianco’s Social Media Links