B.L. Callaghan Interview Published on: 24, Mar 2022
Where have you spent most of your childhood?
Most of my childhood was spent lost within my imagination, creating new worlds filled with magic and monsters. When not exploring ruined cities, or braving the wild jungles, I Could be found with my nose in a book.
Since how long have you been living in rural New South Wales?I moved to rural New South Wales after I married my husband in 2009 and instantly fell in love with the quiet, laid-back atmosphere.
Which of your childhood dreams was the first to die?Oh gosh, what an interesting question! I’ve always wanted to be an author, but the only other dream I can remember wanting to come true was the typical ‘I want to be a princess’ one that many girls have. I guess I was about 11 when I let that one go.
What were the key challenges you faced when writing your first book?I struggled with time and motivation honestly. Awaken began as a dream over a decade ago, and between work, kids, study, and life in general, I struggled to find the time and motivation to keep it going. Eventually though, I got the story down on paper, and after that, it was easier.
How many books do you plan to write in the The Goddess Incarnate series?There will be 3 in the main story, with Sapphira Dawn as the main character, but the series will have origin-type books for some of the other characters.
Who inspired the character of Sapphira Dawn in "Wicked Darkness"?I think she is a combination of myself, and what I had always thought was missing from your typical Heroine. She’s always questioning things instead of going with the flow, she isn’t suddenly perfect at everything she tries, she makes a ton of mistakes, and takes a long time to come into herself.
Who is the most supportive person in your life when it comes to your writing?I’m lucky enough to have an amazing support system around me – my husband, my mother, and the incredible literary community I’ve found on social media. There is never a shortage of support and encouragement, and I am so grateful for them all!
How do you spend “quality time” with yourself?Lost in a good book of course! I devour just about any book I can get my hands on!
Would you rather vacation at the beach or in the mountains? Why?Oh, that’s a tough one! I do love to take vacations to the beach, and there is something so peaceful about a beautiful spot in the mountains! I think, based on how many times I’ve been to the beach though, I’d say right now that I’d choose the mountains for the next one!
What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?Plot and characters for me. I need to connect with the characters I’m reading about and relate to them somehow. If the character feels flat or unbelievable, you’ve probably lost me. The plot has to hold my interest too. Is it exciting? Are there mysteries that make me want to keep reading to find out? Does the plot move at a good speed? Are there twists that blow my mind?
What is the one genre you feel you can never write? Why?Crime/psychological thrillers. I feel that I don’t know enough about those elements to write a convincing story. I love to read them but feel as though I could never do them justice myself.
Are you working on a new book? Is it going to be a series or a standalone?I am currently finishing up the Goddess Incarnate series, and have plotted out another 12 books (3 new series and a standalone)
When did you first join AllAuthor and did you join as a free or pro-member first? What are your thoughts on this website?I think I joined as a free member first and quickly changed to a pro-member. I think AllAuthor is a great site and brings together many elements and resources that authors love and need.
