Page 28 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 53

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business-minded, it’s what shapes them as
a person. Life for me evolved in a normal fashion: University, part-time jobs, a career in administration. It was until I was in my 30s and after a significant breakup that I decided to put pen to paper and write my first novel, “My Love is Deep”. When my engagement ended, I had time on my hands and used that time to finally pursue the dream that had been brewing inside of me since Grade 9. Although I set that novel aside for many more years, it marked the beginning of this incredible jour- ney. My first protagonist, Peter Travis, will always be a part of me.
What draws you to explore such a wide range of genres, and do you have a favorite?
One simple word can inspire many ideas. I can transform the word “horizon” into some- thing romantic, or even horrific. Horror is my favourite genre to write. Life can be horrific. Exploring the human psyche is fascinating. As a storyteller, it’s inherent in me to explore all genres.
Could you describe your writing process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines when starting a new book?
I don’t practice any specific rituals per se, although unlike some of my peers, I do prefer to write in a quiet setting. However, I always decide on my title before I start writing. Next, I create my cover. Both those things inspire the rest of the story. I also edit as I write. I don’t like to leave “bad words” behind, which means that I don’t write several drafts.
How do you develop your characters? Do you find that your characters take on a life of their own as the story progresses?
They do take on a life of their own. I am instinctively drawn to writing male characters and I find it easy and satisfying to do so. I’ve had readers over the years tell me that had they not known I am a female author, they would have guessed that I was male since my male characters are written realistically. All my characters are as real to me as the flesh and blood person sitting next to me. They also reside somewhere inside of me.
What messages or themes do you hope readers take away from your stories?
I used this as my brand and in my adver- tising campaigns when I first started this journey, but it still rings true today: “Love is the most remarkable magic - even in horror.” I suppose it’s the hopeless romantic in me - the person who believes, and has always believed – that love can conquer all. There’s a scene of dialogue in my first book that sums this up. The gist is, if someone is on their deathbed, they won’t remember their first job, or care how much money is in their bank account. They will only want someone who loves them to be there to hold their hand.
Can you elaborate on what you mean by
STAR INTERVIEW
“Owl Eyes Motel” by Barbara Avon is a captivating journey through the eerie and atmospheric world of a quirky motel. Set in 1985, each room unveils a haunting story that keeps readers enthralled. Avon’s writing is rich with vivid imagery and clever storytelling, inviting us to explore the mysteries of life and death. A must-read for fans of supernatural fiction!
This is where the theme of love comes in. If love is all that matters in life, then there’s a lot more at stake when two lovers are trapped in a horror story. By definition, a romance ends happily. That’s not the case when it comes
“Love is the most
remarkable magic - even in horror.”
28 II Reader’s House
“I believe in magic. Books
are magic. Love is the most remarkable magic.”
horror being “hauntingly beautiful” to you as a writer?
to horror. Can a tragic ending be beautiful? Death is a part of life. Love is a part of life. A horror story can be “hauntingly beautiful”. There are, of course, different types of horror stories. Romantic love is not a theme in a slasher-type of horror, but my horror stories are categorized under Psychological Horror. Love is always a theme.
How did it feel to receive recognition like the Literary Titan Gold Medal Award for “Sultry Is the Night”?
As an author, I strive to write stories that touch readers in some way, shape, or form. “Sultry Is the Night” is one of my personal favourites. I feel honoured that the story re- ceived such high praise. Authors often refer to their books as their “babies”. Just as a parent is proud when their child receives a prestig- ious award and recognition, I also feel proud.
Which of your works do you envision as a movie, and why?
By using colourful descriptions and real- istic dialogue, I think all my books read like movies. “Sacrilege”, my psychological horror, is set in 1985 and would be low budget since most of the action takes place in a boarding house. I envision someone like Patrick Wilson (The Conjuring) playing wayward priest Cris Corelli. Seeing my stories come to life on the big screen is my next big dream.
Can you share more about your journey into self-publishing? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
I always knew that I wanted to be in control of every aspect from writing, editing, cover design, and marketing. I never queried and preferred to retain creative control. Basically,