Tell us about yourself.
I am a dog lover, former supervising government paralegal, now senior resident advocate and published author. Grew up in San Diego, 3rd child of a couple of teachers. College graduate who is now writing stories of our rescue dog from Ukraine, when we're not out enjoying God’s creation with family and friends (canine or human) – kayaking, ziplining, and hiking mountain trails calling my name.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in San Diego, California, an international hub near the beach. A beach girl at heart. My published books include the journey of our international rescue dog from Ukraine and her ocean adventures.
What was your journey to getting published like?
I am a self-published author so this has been a challenging adventure. My first published writing was my master's thesis. After 30 years as a paralegal, writing pleadings and research memos, I retired and took my love of writing to a new level.
What’s the best piece of feedback you’ve ever received?
Follow your passion and write from your heart – let those creative voices in your head find their voice
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Paint a picture of your character in bold strokes – don't just tell the reader about your character, make them come alive
What’s a fun fact about you that your readers might not know?
I LOVE dogs, they are my favorite companions and teachers
What’s your guilty pleasure book or genre?
Inspirational older stories
What’s your favorite quote about writing?
Best advice – old but true "Be sure not to discuss your hero’s state of mind. Make it clear from his actions. "― Anton Chekhov
When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
I also work a full time job as an ombudsman, advocating for seniors in long term care facilities, and volunteer at a senior dog sanctuary. Fighting for my characters right to be is based on championing the rights of senior dogs and people. Also love to kayak and hike, especially with my dogs, finding our place in nature.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
Don't remember the actual story but I'm sure it had to do with animals. Actually I wrote my first play as a child – a retake on "Winnie the Pooh" and his cast of friends.
What has inspired you and your writing style?
My stories are based on my rescue dog Shayla from a Ukrainian orphanage. The orphanage leader, Roman, is one of the most remarkable people I have evet met, besides my own father. These men taught me the beauty of living out your passion, being grateful to God, and helping others find their voice.
How do you deal with negative reviews?
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, I will keep writing my stories
How do you connect with your readers?
Website and attending book fairs
What’s next for you as a writer?
After writing 6 books on Shayla's adventures, which also includes bits of my personal journey, I need to work on marketing and converting to e-book format to reach more folks. I would like to include stories of my beautiful senior residents, anonymously of course.
Are there any Easter eggs or hidden messages in your work?
Oh yes, lessons of love and friendship, courage to take the next step in an uncertain world while trusting God and others to help you find the light.
How do you approach writing dialogue for your characters?
Many of my characters are canine – take time with nature and the animals and learn from them as they have such wisdom to impart. Write and rewrite.
If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
Trust God to lead you into the light and love others – in opening your heart you find yourself
Barchelle Bolger Wathen’s Author Websites and Profiles
Website
Amazon Profile
Barchelle Bolger Wathen’s Social Media Links
Facebook Page
Instagram
All information in this post is presented “as is” supplied by the author. We don’t edit to allow you the reader to hear the author in their own voice.
