Q and A Interview for the New Book Review
When in Dublin recently, I had a chance to meet up with author
Clare O’Beara and her IT husband. Due to her busy schedule, I was just lucky enough to catch her between being the official film recorder for science-fiction World Con and Hugo Awards problem solver, as well as the start of the fall college class startup. Of course, she also is a busy tree surgeon. To my delight, she had a few hours to talk. We initially met on Goodreads as she answers readers’ comments and questions, and this was our first in-person talk.
When did you start writing?
I have been writing for most of my life. Now, I write mysteries, science fiction, young adult, and romance books. I have won several awards for short stories and am an Amazon bestseller. I also review books and am considered a top reviewer with Net Gallery,
Fresh Fiction, Goodreads, and Amazon. I review excellent, accessible facilities for people with disabilities As an example,
this is a link to her short film about accessible places in London.
Why are you taking college classes when you are already a successful writer?
As a multimedia journalism student, I am learning more about improving my writing, making publicity marketing materials, producing videos, and networking with people interested in this area. I help run events where this knowledge is helpful. At the science-fiction World Con, it was helpful to know about multimedia journalism as I was an official film recorder and Hugo Awards problem solver. I learned more about creating book trailers. I am already using the degree although the classes are not even finished.
This degree seems to be made for O’Beara! I’m sure it helps with her blog, website, and YouTube channel.
I see you are a national showjumping champion. How did you become interested in horses?
At the age of four, I wanted to be an architect. Then, my parents put me on a pony to go for a ride, and that was it. I have been a horse person ever since. Several of my books involve horses in the plot, especially
Silks and Sins,
Murder at Kildare Mensa, and
Rodeo Finn.
I also asked O’Beara if she had ever dressed up especially for a race as described in Silks and Sins, and she said she did a few times.
Cats are important in your books. Do you own cats?
The answer was she has four cats. I wasn’t surprised as they are part of the stories and even included when friends visit. One cat, boots, was ignored by an owner which figures into the mystery. I think I didn’t have to ask if one of her cats had white paws and was named Boots. I just think probably so!
Did you try traditional publishing prior to self-publishing?
Yes, in the 1990’s when manuscripts were sent through the post with SASE (self-addressed stamped envelopes for their return). It was a very slow process. She tried this a few times. Then she started to realize books like Wool by Hugh Howey did well although self-published. As a best-selling Amazon author, she is not at all sorry she tried this route. She evens shares what she has learned about
independent publishing at the page on her website.
O’Beara said she bought ten ISBNs and used seven in her first year. She had five books ready to publish at that time. She used five the next year.
Why do you review books for sites such as Fresh Fiction?
Participating in book awards and reviewing books written by others is always educational and I learn so much from these activities. This is where I first noticed the increase in independent publishing which inspired me, for instance.
Self-publishing involves much technical work. How do you accomplish all this?
My husband, Allan, is my IT support. I take the photos, and he creates the book covers. He is the website maintenance and troubleshooter. It takes time to do the writing much less the technical aspects of this kind of writing. I appreciate the support.
*Note: Read her
advice for people who want to self-publish at this link.
What are your writing plans for the future?
I plan to write a book a year although I’m taking the multimedia journalism degree and working and volunteering with my other interests.
I hear the science fiction World Con will be held in New Zealand next year. Will you attend?
Well, that is a long way off and a long distance. This year we were lucky as we said Ireland should have a turn, and it was here. The volunteers do get their entry tickets paid, but the travel and accommodations are not covered. We will just have to see. She added:
“I've just spent a week and a half helping to staff Worldcon, the World Science Fiction Convention. This was held in Dublin for the first time and all hands were needed. My husband Allan also attended and gave me great assistance. The Hugo Awards were carefully administered, and duly awarded in a stunning ceremony.”
Climate change is a constant theme in your books. What would you like people to know about this topic?
I recommend the movie Mimicking Africa to learn about sustainable animal agriculture. I also help moderate the
Green Group on Goodreads where we discuss this topic. I am a fan of the
Fota Wildlife Animal Sanctuary and share information about it, as well.
You are very active on Goodreads. That is where I met you. I was so pleased when you answered. Do you like comments from readers on that platform?
Yes, and I do answer and converse with readers on Goodreads. I welcome comments.
Thank you so much for meeting with me today!
Previously on The New Book Review, I have reviewed some of Clare O'Beara's books.
Thank you for reading,
Carolyn Wilhelm, Wise Owl Factory
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