S.P. O’Farrell is the author of the highly anticipated Simone LaFray middle-grade book series published by Brandylane Publishers. Simone LaFray and the Chocolatiers’ Ball (Book #1), was released on May 13, 2019 and has been met with rave reviews. The book is tracking on numerous featured and bestselling lists world-wide, with Book #2 recenlty released and another big hit. Mr. O’Farrell lives in western Maryland.

 

AUTHOR INTERVIEW - SIX MINUTES WITH S.P. O'FARRELL:

Joining LitPick for Six Minutes with an Author is S.P. O’Farrell, author of Simone LaFray and the Chocolatiers’ Ball, an award-winning middle-grade book.

This book has received the LitPick Top Choice Book Review Award. One reviewer said, “I really loved this book, and I hope there is another one coming out, because I can't wait to read it. The book kept me in suspense between its pages!”

https://litpick.com/review/simone-lafray-and-chocolatiers-ball-review-emmaline

Check out the animated review on YouTube (https://youtu.be/JYnWPj3vEYk).

And be sure to add this fantastic middle-grade book to your library today (https://amzn.to/2lflRrA).  

***How did you get started writing? 

I have always had an interest in writing and publication.  I wrote the initial version of this book, which was in early chapter book form, about four years ago.  Small ideas can grow, but you have to get started and trust in your instincts to bring it all together.   

***Who influenced you?

My favorite authors in the genre are Blue Balliett, R.L. LaFevers, Roald Dahl, and J.K. Rowling.

***Do you have a favorite book/subject/character/setting?

I don’t necessarily have a favorite book, although I tend to gravitate back to the classics; To Kill a Mockingbird, Fahrenheit 451, The Old Man and the Sea, The Great Gatsby, etc.  Compelling characters where the stakes are high usually keep me reading.  

***What advice do you have for someone who wants to be an author?

Start today.  It takes a long time to muddle through your ideas to develop a cohesive outline and eventually get that first draft written.  No timetables, but work at it daily.  Also seek out people who will move you forward and champion your story.  The right publisher is worth waiting for. Persistence and resolve, but start today! 

***Where is your favorite place to write?

My favorite place to write in on my screened porch at night.  

***What else would you like to tell us?

I’m currently writing Book #2, which should be released in 2020.  The entire series should encompass 6 to 7 books.

S.P., thank you for joining LitPick for an author interview and for sharing practical advice for people who want to be authors. Our hope is that they will start writing today. We look forward to hearing more about Book #2 in the Simone LaFray series.