Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Sylvia Damsell. I was born and brought up in South Africa but now live in England. My main occupation is writing novels which I love doing. I also write under the names of Sylvia Wheatley and Elise Robbins but mainly under Sylvia Damsell where I write Christian historical western romances.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my latest book is ‘A Bride for Lemuel’ which is part of a series called ‘Lone Pine Brides.’ I’m not sure what inspires my books. I just start writing and a book follows. True historical facts are included among the fiction, which is something in which I am very interested, particularly the way women began to move into areas where they were not allowed before in the later nineteenth century. My books address some of these issues but not in a boring way, just as part of the plot. There is always romance.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not particularly. I type on a laptop which, as its name suggests, sits on my lap where I sit on the sofa with my legs up. Sometimes I put on earphones and listen to music while I’m writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
The Bible mostly which I love. Under the name of Sylvia Wheatley I write commentaries, also novels set in different Bible times.
What are you working on now?
I am about to start a new Christmas novel set in California but haven’t got into it properly. I also have another book in the pipeline which is on pre-order but hasn’t been written yet. ‘Anna’s Destiny’, the story of a lady from Asia set in 1879 and a sequel to ‘A Bride for Lemuel.’
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook, also Awesome Gang and a couple of other promoters.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Make sure there are no mistakes in your book which involves re-reading many times before it is published. Advertise on facebook or elsewhere but don’t spend more than you earn on it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I’m not sure but I personally would say, enjoy what you do. Don’t just do it to make lots of money.
What are you reading now?
The Bible regularly. Have just read, ‘An Agent for Phoebe’ by Nerys Leigh. I really enjoyed it.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will just keep writing because that is what I love and do the research that goes with it, which is also fascinating.
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 compilation of all my books.
Two other longs books by an author I like which I don’t mind reading over and over again.
I’d also like my laptop with a few spare batteries.
Author Websites and Profiles
Sylvia Damsell Website
Sylvia Damsell Amazon Profile
Sylvia Damsell’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile