Page 26 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 53

Italian Roots, Canadian Stories
BARBARA AVON
TELLING STORIES THAT HAUNT, HEAL AND INSPIRE ACROSS GENRES
Barbara Avon reflects on her writing journey, her diverse genres, and the profound themes of love and horror found in her award-winning novels.
arbara Avon graces the cover of this issue of Reader’s House,
a testament to her remarkable contributions to contemporary
aBs told to Dan Peters
that celebrate her distinct voice.
In this insightful interview, readers will gain a glimpse into Barbara’s writing process, her inspirations, and her unwavering belief
in the magic of storytelling. As she shares
her journey of self-publishing and her hopes for the legacy her works will leave behind, it becomes evident that Barbara Avon is not just a writer but a conjuror of emotions who be- lieves in the transformative power of love and the written word. Join us as we delve into the mind of this extraordinary author, whose pen captures the essence of both joy and darkness, revealing the haunting beauty that resides in every tale she tells.
Can you share more about the moment you decided to pursue writing seriously after your Grade 9 English teacher’s encouragement? What impact did that have on your career?
Most people feel “a calling”. Whether they are drawn to the arts, a trade, or are
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literature. As an award-winning multi-genre author, Barbara has captivated readers with her imaginative storytelling, deftly navigat- ing the realms of romance, horror, mystery, and beyond. Her writing journey began
in the quiet recesses of her imagination as
a young girl in the Niagara Falls Region, blossoming into a prolific career that has seen her achieve critical acclaim and recog- nition within the literary community.
Her works, including the award-win-
ning “Revived” and “Sultry Is the Night,” showcase a unique blend of complexity and emotion that resonates deeply with readers. Barbara’s exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the human experience invites us
into a world where the lines between beauty and horror are artfully blurred. Her ability to breathe life into her characters, particularly her compelling male protagonists, highlights her skill as a storyteller, earning her accolades
26 II Reader’s House
In October of 2022, “Revived” was chosen as “Horror Book of the Year” by the “Feed My Reads” community,
and in February of 2025, “Sultry Is the Night”, received the Literary Titan Gold Medal Award for Fiction.