Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Tara Blair Ball is a freelance writer and a memoirist. She lives in the Southern United States with her wonderful husband (marriage take 2), her twin toddlers, her teenage step-daughter, one exceptionally dumb mutt, and one super smart teacup yorkie. She smiles all the ever-loving time and could live every day of her life on pizza. She has written one memoir.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Beginning of the End: A Memoir is the true story of my life over a nine month period. In 2017, I thought I had it all: a handsome husband, beautiful infant twins, and a great house in the suburbs. But then came a discovery that worked just like a grenade lofted into the middle of my superficially serene life: my husband had been secretly abusing drugs for years, had a secret card, and had embezzled from his job. After trying to work things out and having two devastating miscarriages, I then committed my own great act of betrayal: having an affair.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I use chewing tobacco! I know, it’s exceptionally gross, and I’m a classy lady, so you’d never think I’d use chewing tobacco, but I used to be a secret smoker, and now I’m a secret dipper. It’s so attached to my writing habit that every time I try to quit, I go through major writer’s block. I know I just need to push through it, but I haven’t been willing to yet since I have such a great writing routine going!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Cheryl Strayed’s Wild, Mary Karr’s Lit, and many writers on Medium like Shannon Ashley, Kris Gage, and Shaunta Grimes. Women who tell it like it is and keep writing!
What are you working on now?
I’m a top freelance writer on Medium, so I’m always putting out content there. I also have several freelance clients I blog for. After I get through the promotion period for this first book, I’ll likely begin on a sequel.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Medium.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never stop writing! Use a platform like Medium to get your writing out there and hopefully get some money too!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Your first draft will always be $h1tty. Write anyway.
What are you reading now?
Aimee Bender’s The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m always writing, so we’ll see what happens!
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 Time Traveler’s Wife, The Secret, and Hyperbole and a Half.
Author Websites and Profiles
Tara Blair Ball Website
Tara Blair Ball Amazon Profile
Tara Blair Ball’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account