Interview with Karen Oberlaender
Published 2016-10-26.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
There is always the word of mouth, newsletters, personal recommendations, gifted ebooks, etc.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Actually, I do. It is a short story called 'Nightmare'. A young woman has a recurrent dream...
What is your writing process?
Due to my full-time job, my writing mainly consists of short stories and flash fiction series - at least for the time being.
The process is simple: I am inspired by a dream, an event, some news, etc. It is noted in my little black book. A complementary piece of inspiration may come up - and I start writing. Throughout the typing phase - until hitting the publish button - I must beware of four-legged co-editors.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
Zorro - the kids edition. The impact: I cannot stop the urge to read and write. ;)
How do you approach cover design?
Covers are important. Therefore I let my covers be handled by a highly gifted friend. She knows my stories and understands my ways of thinking. This ensures great covers.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
There are at least 50 favourite books out there. What I especially like: Great characters, good flow, there are many ways of amazing storytelling. One book that always comes to mind: Wild Concept by C.S. Boyack - His protagonist, Lisa Burton, is awesome; and I love his storytelling.
What do you read for pleasure?
Mysteries, urban fantasy, short stories, horror, etc.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
1. A tolino for epub formats
2. A kindle for mobi formats
Describe your desk
Computer with 24 inch screen, laptop, smartphone, two ereaders, one or two cats, keyboard, computer mouse, huge coffee mug, water bottle, ...
When did you first start writing?
At the age of 9, mainly song texts.
Started for real in 2012.
What's the story behind your latest book?
It is a flash fiction series. Sheriff Jim Burrell has to solve a strange case.
I followed a writing prompt (150 +/-10 words, include an unpaid bill, a photograph). One of my readers stated she would like to read more - and so did I. ;)
What do your fans mean to you?
Everything - they make my day.
What are you working on next?
There is another flash fiction series on the way. :)
Who are your favorite authors?
C.S. Boyack, Sue Coletta, Dean Koontz, and many more.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
The smell of coffee and being inspired.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Working, reading, visiting concerts, going to the movies, travelling, etc.
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