Author Bio:
All my work is inspired by social issues to which we all can relate. Issues such as, work/ life stresses, the loss of a spouse and how marriage can sometimes swallow a woman’s identity, and the prevalence of greed in modern society.
Walking with Elephants was my first novel, although I was not new to writing. I was a theater critic and celebrity interviewer for a weekly tabloid in Jacksonville, Fl and I earned a Master’s in Mass Communication from Oklahoma State University. For 15 years I worked in Corporate America as a technical editor/editor/writer. I experienced first hand the politics and intrigue that goes with that territory and the balancing act that comes with being a working mother. I salute all those mothers who are the glue that holds their families together while pursuing the nine to five brass ring and were the inspiration for this work. Audible book is available and narrated by me.
With my second novel, Sunspots, I continue to be in awe of the magical and wondrous phenomenon called life. As an observer and obvious participant in feminine values and approach to our human challenges, I bring this perspective to my work. Fascinated by the mysteries of the unseen forces that perhaps play a role in guiding our choices, I search for answers in the mundane as well as in the cosmic forces that surround us.
Author Alexa Wainwright’s pact with the Devil in When a Stranger Comes…is an allegory for the evil lurking in our midst. The social decay of modern society with its excessive greed, the ignorance of our political leaders, and our indifference toward the survival of all species from the effects of climate change, among other environmental pressures, are perhaps brought forth by the darkest forces of human nature. The audible book narrated by me is in production.
The genre of magical realism appeals to me and all my work has elements woven in. My current project is focused on a Bed and Breakfast that becomes a safe haven from the effects of climate change while celebrating the Feminine Divine and is set squarely in that realm.
I am working on my next project in Ponte Vedra, Fl. with my husband and our two furry kids. Our human kids have flown the nest and are scattered far and wide, alas.
What inspires you to write?
Injustices in the world and my personal experiences.
Tell us about your writing process.
Totally a seat of the pants writer. I have an overarching idea but then the narratives moves on its own. Suddenly an idea will pop into my head that takes me on a new path. I love when that happens because the blank page is daunting.
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
My characters are always surprising me. They send me images in my head like a movie and I go with it. Sometimes they even give me their names.
Who are your favorite authors?
I loved The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. Once it grabbed me, I couldn't put it down. The same thing happened with A Gentleman in Moscow by Armor Towles.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
I tried traditional publishing but couldn't get a legitimate agent, only sharks came around. With my debut, Walking with Elephants, I found an independent publisher who had it for a year or so, but then had to close shop. I couldn't find a new publisher and took it over myself. With my subsequent works, I first tried the traditional route but ended up with KDP Amazon. I'm skilled at using publishing software, so it's no problem. What I lose with this approach is visibility, sales, and legitimacy. But it's either this or nothing.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
It will morph into something else like the other entertainment areas. Vocal artists make their money from concert tours because the don't sell albums only single songs, actors get their income from upfront astronomical salaries and video sales. So maybe books will be doled out by enrolling in monthly subscription type vehicles that deliver ebooks to your device. Print will go away.
What genres do you write?
Romantic suspense, women's contemporary fiction, time-travel, and magical realism
What formats are your books in?
eBook, Print, Audiobook
Website(s)
Karen S. Bell Home Page Link
Follow Karen S. Bell On Amazon
Author’s Social Media Links
Goodreads
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
All information is provided by the author and is presented as it was submitted so you the reader get to hear the author’s own “voice” in their interview.
