Best of Family & Relationships
Best of Family & Relationships
"So Many Books, So Little Time!"
Exclusive Interview with
Debby Grahl
When did you start writing?
I was born with an eye disease called Retinitis Pigmentosa. I lost the ability to read print in my early twenties. Even when I had vision, seeing the printed word was difficult for me. I was in my early teens when I began making up my own stories. I used to entertain my girlfriends on our way to school. Two of these friends are still my biggest fans. It wasn't until the invention of computers and screen reading software, that I was able to put my stories into print.
What makes writing your passion?
I love sharing my stories with others.
How long have you been writing?
About twelve years.
What was the feeling when you published your first book?
Euphoria!! I jumped up and down screaming. I called, emailed, or texted everyone I knew.
What’s the story behind your choice of characters?
I honestly don't know. I decide the setting for the book and the story outline and the characters appear in my head.
What annoys you the most in pursuing a writing career?
Marketing! I'm awful at it! And I don't want to take time away from my writing.
How do you get over the “writer’s block”?
LOL! I clean house. Or I sit in the hot tub with a bottle of wine.
We all know the writer’s path is never easy, what makes you keep going? What advice would you give to new authors?
If being a writer is your dream, don't give up. If you're having trouble, take online writing classes. I found these to be extremely helpful.
If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say?
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with the bad ones?
It depends on the bad review. I appreciate constructive criticism. If they're just nasty, I try to ignore it.
What is the feeling when you get a good review?
Fantastic!
Have you ever incorporated something that happened to you in real life into your novels?
Which of your characters you can compare yourself with? Did you base that character on you?
What do you think, the book cover is as important as the story?
Definitely! A reader might reject a great book because of the cover.
Do you connect with your readers? Do you mind having a chat with them or you prefer to express yourself through your writing?
I love talking with my readers!
How do you feel when people appreciate your work or recognize you in public?
It's more thrilling than I can say.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
I like so many, this is a tough question to answer. I'd have to say Martha Grimes, Ngaio Marsh, Heather Graham, Agatha Christie and Rhys Bowen.
What’s the dream? Whom would you like to be as big as?
Nora Roberts
Would you rewrite any of your books? Why?