Welcome to the Author Interview. This time, it features the lovely Karen Osman, author of The Good Mother.
If you’re an author who’d like to take part in the series, email me: debbie@myrandommusings.co.uk
Now over to Karen:
1 Firstly, tell us a little bit about yourself
“So, you can read my official bio here but on a personal note, here’s a quick snap shot of my life. It’s currently a mixture of looking after my two sons, writing novels, running a business, and trying to lose the baby weight! If I do get a few hours of downtime (thanks to my incredible husband) you will usually find me reading, doing yoga, or at the cinema.”
2 Tell us a little bit about your books
I write psychological thrillers. My debut novel, The Good Mother, was published in October 2017 by Head of Zeus and my second novel, The Home, will be published this September.
The Good Mother is about Catherine, a mother who starts writing to Michael, a prisoner convicted of murder. Throughout the story, she finds herself obsessing about his crime and whether he can ever truly be forgiven.
3 Where do you find your inspiration for your books?
I wrote The Good Mother when I was pregnant and looking after my toddler – the theme of motherhood is really powerful in this book so experiences which result in strong emotions are a source of information.
Saying that, I pick up my inspiration from travel, news sites, and different people I have met.
4 What, for you, is the best thing about being a writer?
The flexibility and the creativity. Also, reading lots of books and being able to justify it as work 🙂
5 And the worst?
The isolation. I have to remind myself to get out and see people during the day.
6 If you could have any super power, what would it be and why?
To fly so I would be able to see the world anytime I wanted to and enjoy incredible views.
7 Do you have any tips for anyone wanting to write their first book?
- Don’t underestimate the power of planning – it will prevent writer’s block.
- Write even when you don’t feel like it. There’s no need to wait for inspiration.
- Read as much as possible.
- Learn about different writing techniques. While natural talent is a great foundation, there’s always room for improvement.
- Have a dedicated writing space and treat the act of writing a book as a profession which needs discipline.
8 Tell us one random fact about you
I have lived in Japan, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates.
9 Who is your favourite author?
I have many favourites – I’m a big fan of Philippa Gregory, Haruki Murakami, Clare Makintosh, and Peter James.
10 And your favourite book(s)?
Gone with the Wind, Wild Swans and Shantaram
11 What book are you reading right now?
I just finished Burnt Shadows by Kamila Shamsie which I loved – beautiful writing.
12 Where is your favourite place to write?
I normally write in my study but if money was no objection it would be in a hotel room with sea views and room service.
13 Do you prefer to write in silence or do you have a writing soundtrack?
I think and write in silence. However, I will often edit or research to classic FM.
14 What can we expect from you next?
My second book, The Home, will be published in September 2018 and is set in London in 1987. It tells the story of Angela, a successful, ambitious 27-year old solicitor and the search for her birth mother, Evelyn.
Angela spent her early childhood years in the harsh environment of an inner-city children’s home in the sixties, before being adopted by James and Rosemary. However, as Evelyn and Angela slowly reunite, a series of frightening incidences befall Evelyn leading her to wonder if Angela is secretly out for revenge.
But Evelyn, James, and Rosemary are each harbouring their own secrets and as different perspectives of the past are revealed, no one knows who to trust when the murderer strikes.
15 Anything else you’d like to share?
The Good Mother is currently available on Amazon for a limited time offer of 99p
16 Where can we find you? (Links to your Amazon page and social media)
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or visit my website.
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