Elizabeth Upton Interview Published on: 17, Feb 2023
Where did you grow up? Did you read a lot of books when you were a kid?
I grew up in Los Angeles Ca. My mother was an avid reader and started my sister and me reading at the age of five years old. I enjoyed reading books about animals, and nature and loved books by Hans Christian Andersen.
What developed your lifelong interest in writing Romantic Suspense?I love writing such characters because they are so interesting and suspense makes them exciting and brings them to life.
How do you make sure to draw readers into your stories?For me, it is always through CURIOSITY. Who are these individuals? It is a dance of suspense and love with strong elements of surprise. Pull them in at the very begining.
What challenges did you face while publishing your first novel, "View From the Sixth Floor: An Oswald Tale"?I was a novice writer. I had to learn how to write. I did extensive research about publishing. I had to find an agent. And then I found a producer willing to produce my book. It was a remarkable journey not since repeated. So, I decided to self-publish my books through Kindle Direct Publishing which has been much easier.
What was your reaction when your book, "Secrets of a Nun: My Story" became a bestseller?Oh, my...I ran around my yelling," I DID IT! LOL, seriously.
What is the most difficult part of weaving a romantic thriller?The basic storyline and plots have to work. Once that does, the romantic part is not to difficult, and then I use my romantic imagination.
How much did you research to tackle a social issue in your book, Exuberant Women Don't Age?Truth be told I did not have to do any research because of my work experiences in my life as a social worker, probation officer, and counselor and from working and learning from/with many women throughout my entire life.
How often do you write in a week? Do you follow a certain schedule or write whenever and wherever?I write most days and often throughout the day. No set schedule as I write when new ideas come to me. I also take lots of notes.
How did you come up with the title of your book, "The Web of Darkness and Light"? What is its significance?With all of my fiction books, the title comes to me in a flash! That is what inspired me to write this book series. I love the character of 'John Callahan' who leaves the priesthood to find love in marriage and then becomes involved in a murder case investigation with his friend Casey. Callahan is conflicted about his IRA killer life fighting to find emotional and spiritual balance. The three book series follows that line.
How does writing make you feel? When you're not writing, what does a normal day for you look like?Writing makes me feel inspired and alive! I love living in beautiful Santa Barbara, CA. Our home faces the mountains where sunlight changes it all day long. Every day I enjoy walking by the ocean where I often see dolphins playing. I play with my dog. I also read books on science and technology.
Not limited to a single genre, what book genre is your favorite?My reading is so diverse and I have to say when I do read? I am into it until I often pick something to read entirely differently. So, no real favorite genre.
What are some things that have changed after being an author? Do you miss anything?Having the freedom to write when I want and to stick with it. I am rather solitary. Lol...but my husband disagrees that I'm solitary.
Which is your favorite Geraldine Brooks book?HORSE
Lastly, what are your thoughts and opinions on AllAuthor and its services?I can not be more delighted that I have an exceptional book marketer, Catherine Lyon of 'Lyon Literary Services' who set me up on your helpful site.
I think you do such justice and serve authors well with all the tools and resources you give them.
Being a Pro Author member sure saves authors money with all the benefits we receive, and at affordable pricing. I just love the beautiful book bannners Cat makes for all my books from here at All Author. You also teach us how to promote our books with all the tools!
