Interview With Author Sofia Essen
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born in Scandinavia but I spent 30 years of my life bouncing around Asia. Now I live in Athens, Greece. I’ve written 3 books set in some of my favourite locations – Singapore, Paris, and the Greek islands.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
From Paris With Love is my latest book. It was inspired by the idea of wanting to break out of regular routines, experiencing new things, and stepping out of my comfort zone.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I tend to start writing at about 2 AM. I’m a bit of an insomniac. So instead of tossing and turning, I write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Tamera by Noel Barber is my all-time favourite book. But in terms of authors who have influenced my writing, I would say Sophie Kinsella, Marian Keyes, Jane Green, and Maeve Binchy.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on trying to turn my 2 AM Insomia-induced scribblings into a novel that I can hopefully publish one day.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I just self-published 3 books simultaneously on Amazon. To be honest, I might have put the cart before the horse considering I have no idea how or where to promote my novels. What can I say? I’m a work-in-progress, much like my next book.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes, don’t do what I did… Do your research about publishing and promoting your books before hitting the publish button.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Your life is your story. Don’t let anyone else write it for you.
What are you reading now?
I’m rereading Tanamera by Noel Barber for the umpteenth time.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Currently, I am working on my fourth novel while trying to figure out how to get the word out about my first three.
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?
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
Wings by Danielle Steel
Tanamera by Noel Barber
Author Websites and Profiles
Sofia Essen’s Social Media Links