Who is Elizabeth Upton, a seasoned writer and influential published author of over 12+ literary titles and counting?
Elizabeth Upton is an American Author and an influential writer of fiction and nonfiction spiritual books.
Her best-selling books, “Secrets of a Nun: My Story” and “The Silver Woman of Fire” helped set her firmly on the world’s literary map. With many novels to her credit, she released a new book in June 2022 titled ‘Lovers’ Secrets and Revenge.’ Elizabeth’s favorite she enjoyed writing is, ‘The Shaman and The Mafia,’ as she shares, “The creation of this story has been an exciting journey. If possible, I would love to meet all of the characters in this book in real life.” Elizabeth’s books and novels are available on Amazon online, Barnes & Noble, and featured on fine literary book sites.
Elizabeth was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA., until the age of sixteen, when she entered a New York State Convent and became a nun for twenty years, but she yearned for a more authentic spiritual life. Elizabeth left the convent and chose to attend and receive her B.A. from Syracuse University.
Moving back to her native state of California, she attended and received her M.A. from Chapman University in psychology. The Author began working for over thirty years in family counseling as a social worker and probation officer working with troubled teens and abused children. She is a speaker, spiritual mentor, and advisor.
Elizabeth is happily married and enjoys writing books for her reader fans around the world. When the Author is not writing, she works out with a personal trainer to stay fit and healthy; she loves spending time on long walks on the beach with her husband and dog. Her favorite colors are blue, green, and gold. She enjoys reading good books by some of her favorite authors like Geraldine Brooks, Hanh, Jerry Archer, Joseph Murphy, and Michael Connelly. Elizabeth and her husband reside in Santa Barbara, California.
Interview Courtesy of Newsbreak Media
What inspired you to write your first book?
My first book was just for fun, and it helped me get started as a writer. I moved into writing both thrilling mystery fiction and nonfiction, like ‘The Silver Woman of Fire.’
Do you have a specific writing style?
My style and writing process are somewhat unconventional. It is difficult to explain what it is. But I do rely on a writing plan and outline.
How did you come up with the title?
The title for “The Silver Woman of Fire” I played around with different titles and finally decided on this one. It truly matches what is inside this book of self-care and walking through fear. Specially written for women of all ages.
What has influenced you the most as a writer?
The fact that I can write my books sure continues to inspire me through the years. Especially my twin sister, who has recently passed, who had always been a help to me, very supportive, and an amazing cheerleader t keep me writing.
Are experiences based on someone you know or events in your own life?
They include many events in my life. In “Silver Woman” I wanted to relay to other women what I have learned through life lessons while not letting fear hold you back in life and experiencing true authentic spiritual freedoms.
What books have influenced your life the most?
Throughout life, I have been a reader of all kinds of books. Richard Moss, M.D. continues to inspire me.
What book are you reading now?
Books by the late author Thich Nhat Hanh. He was a former Buddist Monk, peace activist, prolific author, poet, and teacher, who is known for and founded the Plum Village Tradition.
What are your current projects?
I am working on a new non-fiction book and another fiction suspense mystery book both to be published in 2023.
Do you see writing as a career?
Yes, it has continued to be my career for, I hope, more years to come. I know many striving to become a writer have a day job unless it doesn’t matter or you are retired like I am now.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
Not one thing! I enjoy sharing my wisdom in my non-fiction books.
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
Perhaps as a child, when I wrote funny stories about other kids and animals. I loved writing stories about animals.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
To keep focused and centered. I keep a schedule and try not to get off track or distracted by other ideas and projects. Sometimes it’s hard to turn off my “imagination!”
Who is your favorite author, and what is it that strikes you about their work?
To be honest, l don’t have a favorite author because I like so many, however, one thing that I look for in a book is ‘CURIOSITY.’ Does it grab my attention or peek at my curiosity? That is because I have a thirst for knowledge and learning.
Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
Not at all. Ever now that we are post-Covid. I don’t need to travel to book events as we have many in California I could be a part of.
Who designed the covers?
Deborah Perdue of Illumination Graphics. She is out of Southern Oregon and is an award-winning designer. www.illuminationgraphics.com and also handles my interior book designs.
What was the most challenging part of writing your book?
It was my first fiction novel, and I had so much to learn. Nonetheless, my passion for writing and publishing my book carried me through, regardless of any ups and downs.
Did you learn anything from writing your book, and what was it?
To believe in me as a writer and not to give up. You have to start by writing for fun and pleasure. You, then, naturally become more seasoned as a writer with each book.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
Tough questions. If you need to take a writing class, do so from a published writer. Honor your own writing style with confidence and stick with it. Forget about becoming a best-selling author. A trick to get writers interested, and often leads to stress and disappointment.
Look for a solid marketer who promotes it. I have Catherine Lyon of https://catlyonsreadingden.com of “Lyon Literary Marketing Services” who handles that side while I focus on just the writing. Enjoy the writing process as you strive to become a good writer. And don’t give up your day job! (Lol.)
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
“Please, enjoy my fiction and non-fiction books for your pleasure and inspiration. I write for you, the reader, and not for myself, so that gives me great joy to continue doing this for you.
What were the challenges (research, literary, psychological, and logistical) in bringing your books to life?
The publishing process! Finding people with expertise and integrity to help me achieve my literary goals. Sometimes it takes a literary village!
What genre do you consider your book(s)?
I write both unique suspense fiction and non-fiction inspirational books.
Do you ever experience writer’s block?
Believe it or not, I have not yet had that experience. But not to say it may never happen.
Do you write an outline before every book you write?
Sometimes, but I am an extremely unconventional writer.
Most often, I don’t always use an outline. I would not recommend it.
Have you ever hated something you wrote?
Lol, not yet.
If you had the opportunity to live anywhere in the world for a year while writing a book that took place in that same setting, where would you choose?
Exactly where I am and live, in beautiful Santa Barbara, California.
Picture this: You feel uninspired, and you’ve sat at the computer for an hour without conquering any words. How do you get your creativity flowing?
I would take a break and play with my dog, walk on the beach, tease my husband, and suck on a peach. (Lol.)
If you have pictures on your writing desk, who/what are they of?
On one side, I have a cloth angel that I found hanging on my mailbox in a storm. I have a dragon and a porcelain elephant.
Elizabeth Upton is not just an American Author, but also an influential writer of fiction and nonfiction spiritual books. Her work spans a variety of genres, including young adult literature, spirituality, and memoir. She has written several bestsellers, and her work has been praised for its insightfulness and ability to communicate complex spiritual concepts in an accessible manner. Elizabeth’s writing is sure to inspire readers of all ages to explore their own spiritual journey.
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Some of Elizabeth’s books include: Secrets of a Nun: My Story and The Silver Woman of Fire
Find out more about Elizabeth and her books on her website at https://elizabethuptonbooks.com
You Can Connect With The Author On Many Social Media Platforms: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon, Linkedin, & https://allauthor.com/author/elizabethuptonbooks/
Elizabeth and Her Doggie Wishes All Her Readers A Merry Christmas Filled With The Holiday Spirit of Joy, Bliss, and Much Happiness… 💝🎁🎄🐾🐕
My Amazon List of Books>> https://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Upton/e/B001KEA1NG/
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"CAT'S BOOK LIBRARY 4 READERS" 