Interview with Karen Frazier
Published 2014-11-21.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
I'm a Kindle gal, although I also use my iPad from time to time. Sometimes, I'll even read a book on my computer. I prefer e-readers because I can make the print pretty big, so I don't have to wear my glasses.
Describe your desk
My desk is an easy chair. I usually write in my great room, looking out over the Chehalis River Valley. I also usually have at least one dog in my lap as I write.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in Western Washington. My grandfather was an old-fashioned newspaperman in the town where I grew up, and I inherited his love of writing.
When did you first start writing?
I've been writing for as long as I could write. Even as a first or second grader, I wrote stories and poetry. I just loved the act of putting pencil to paper and playing with words. I still do.
What's the story behind Pioneer Spirits?
Several years ago after I wrote my first book, I was talking to a local bookseller. He told me I really needed to go to the museum, because it was haunted. I'm never one to turn down a good haunted location, so off I went. I met a bunch of great people (and spirits) there, and in the four years I've spent as a visitor and volunteer to the museum, I've known I eventually wanted to write about its ghosts. The timing just seemed right to do it now, so here it is.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
For me the biggest motivation in writing independently is creative control. I like to tell my stories my way in my voice. Indie publishing is a tough way to go marketing-wise, but for me the creative payoff is worth it.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
I love telling stories, and I love connecting my readers to my subjects. I get all tingly when people tell me that they feel connected to the locations, spirits, and stories I write about. It makes me really happy.
What are you working on next?
I have several projects on my plate. I'm writing my three monthly columns about metaphysics and energy healing, dream interpretation, and the paranormal top ten for Paranormal Underground Magazine every month. In my non-paranormal life, I write cookbooks for people on special diets for a publisher. I have an idea for cookbook project of my own that I've been roughing out. I've also approached the owner of another haunted location that I've wanted to write about for some time. Fingers crossed, that is my next paranormal book. I'm also working on my dissertation for my Ph.D. in metaphysical parapsychology.
Who are your favorite authors?
I'm a huge Jodi Picoult fan. I can relate to her writing voice and I'm impressed with the quality of research she does. On the nonfiction side, I love Mary Roach. She can take the weirdest topics and make them fun. I learn a lot and I laugh when I read her stuff.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
I never know what a day is going to bring, and that makes me happy to get out of bed - the sense of possibility that comes with each new day. The other thing that inspires me to get out of bed is my 5-pound Brussels Griffon, who swipes at my face with her paw to make sure I get up and feed her.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I'm a recent empty nester. I didn't realize how much I'd enjoy having extra space in my day without having as much laundry to do! I love to develop recipes and cook. I also design jewelry and prayer beads from multiple faiths. I'm in school to earn my PhD. I research the paranormal. I am a metaphysical minister and I work with people who need a little nudge spiritually. I'm a classically trained musician, and I teach flute lessons. I have four dogs, a cat, and a husband to take care of. I read. In other words, I stay busy and enjoy doing so.
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Books by This Author
Pioneer Spirits: Investigating the Haunted Lewis County Historical Museum
by Karen Frazier
The Lewis County Historical Museum sits in the heart of Chehalis, Washington. The former railroad depot houses artifacts from the area's pioneers, but eyewitnesses believe the museum is home to more than just historical items. Many visitors, volunteers, employees, and paranormal investigators have had unexplainable experiences in the museum when they've encountered its resident ghosts.
Dancing with the Afterlife: A Paranormal Memoir
by Karen Frazier
Dancing with the Afterlife is Karen Frazier's personal account of the paranormal experiences she's had that led to her quest to research the afterlife. Topics include ghosts, past lives, near-death experiences, and other experiences that suggest consciousness survives death.