Please give a warm welcome to Carrie Anne O’Driscoll, author of Last Kiss & The Worm Fiasco.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you’re currently working on or promoting.
I’m a police officer/volunteer crisis advocate in my “real” life. I’ve published two non-fiction books The Worm Fiasco– A True Portrayal of Domestic Violence and Last Kiss– The Life and Death of Ka’Tara Gallagher. I speak nationally on both subjects. I’m about to publish my first novel- a historical fiction titled In the Shadow of the Heron.
Who or what inspires you?
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis has always been an idol of mine. She endured the worst tragedies that a woman could and she still kept her head high. I sometimes ask myself, “What would Jackie do?”
Has a dream every inspired any of your stories?
Yes! My first novel, In the Shadow of the Heron was based on a dream I had while on surgical leave.
What advice do you have for writer’s just starting out?
Take your time and be true to yourself. Don’t try to fit a mold of who you think you should be.
What does your writing space look like?
I have an 1860’s vintage red oak desk with leather inlays that belonged to my husband’s great grandfather. I have my police certificates and photos on the wall along with reader inspired artwork.
What are your three favorite books including the authors?
Map of Bones by James Rollins, The Talisman by Stephen King and Wutherng Heights by Emily Bronte.
Who is your favorite author and why?
James Rollins! He’s down to earth and a super great guy. His work is the perfect combination of science and historical fiction all wrapped up in a thriller! He’s amazing.
What book are you currently reading?
I am reading Innocent by Scott Turow. A fantastic court drama.
Is there a message in your book(s) that you want readers to grasp?
The Worm Fiasco is about how I survived domestic violence. I hope readers learn the signs to watch for and where to get help. Just to know they’re worth it! Last Kiss is about the murder of my niece at 20 months old due to child abuse. I want my readers to understand the signs and know how to stop it.
Do you see yourself in any of your characters?
I’d say I am most like Annabel from In the Shadow of the Heron. She’s strong and very independent. She’s not afraid to buck the system and refuses to back down. I am very much like that.
Was one of your characters more challenging to write than another?
Yes! Alex Williams from In the Shadow of the Heron was treacherous! He’s not physically abusive but he walks a very fine line and at any moment he could step over. As I wrote him I kept waiting for him to snap.
Is there a character that you enjoyed writing more than any of the others?
Frank O’Mara from In the Shadow of the Heron is based on my husband, Jim. I LOVED inserting his quirks into the character. He’s still laughing.
I have found the writer’s community to be very supportive and welcoming. Please share writers that you recommend for us to check out.
You can find Carrie Anne on her website, Facebook, & Twitter.
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