Featured Interview With Sharlene Almond
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I live in Auckland, New Zealand with my two dogs. Although I have had
training in Beauty and Spa therapy, editing, journalism, animal behavior and photograpy, criminology and counseling, my main interest lies in writing novels which allows me to explore and learn about other eras and countries, creating characters that have deep rooted flaws, but uses those to achieve the end goal. My inspiration for novels came by accident, when finishing writing my first novel and starting to edit it, I stumbled across a conspiracy theory, in which some believed the Freemasons were involved in the Jack the Ripper murders. From there, the historical aspect took shape, continuing throughout all the novels I write. I hope that each novel I write doesn’t necessarily cause a person to believe in the conspiracy or myth, but challenges what they really believe could be possible. To everyone reads my books, I hope they can transport themselves back in time, learn more about the world around them, and maybe even question certain things they believe in.
As an author of historical/present day international thrillers, my books can challenge readers, as well as taking the reader on a journey throughout Europe and abroad.
Having studied in Criminology and Neuro Linguistic programming, in addition to doing a diploma course in body language, enables me to give an authentic feel to my characters, and the crimes committed. Because I’ve always been fascinated with human psychology, especially criminal psychology, I always include that element in every book I write.
My books don’t just cover the crimes committed, but what drove that person to commit those crimes? Examining their history, their weaknesses, childhood; all building up to why some of the most infamous crimes were perpetrated.
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
Since I can remember I loved to read. In primary and high school I dabbled with writing, but never pursued anything. Life circumstances meant I couldn’t work, so I wanted to do something from home. And that’s when I took writing to the next level – writing a novel.
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
Dan Brown, James Patterson, Kathy Reichs…
My favourite genre is thriller/suspense; books that are full of excitement, action, and keeps me on my toes.
Inspiration comes from a variety of people and things that I watch. Sometimes it’s just a little something I’ve heard that triggers of a whole set of ideas.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
Initiated to Kill took me about one year to write. But four years to finally have it published. I’ve editing it so many times, and each time I’ve changed quite a bit. Hopefully the end result people will like.
Two men from different generations, both initiated into a powerful organisation that throughout history has sought control and uses their power for destruction. They leave behind a wake of murder, manipulation and ancient secrets.
The first man wreaks havoc in and around the Whitechapel district of London, England in the 19th century. While the other stalks his victims in the cosmopolitan city of Seville, Spain in the 21st century; knowing that only he could uncover the true motives of one of the world’s most infamous serial killers – Jack the Ripper.
Annabella Cordova quickly becomes embroiled in the conspiracy involving the university she studies at. When her roommate goes missing, it becomes very personal. Her past gradually unveils, as she is closer to this than she could have possibly imagined.
A childhood accident causing permanent deafness enables Annabella to use her other senses to read facial and body language; detecting lies in people, including suspects.
Andres Valero, the troubled detective, returns from forced leave, only to be faced with horrific crimes that brings his memories to the surface.
With Annabella and Andres combined, they must stop this person at any cost, and reveal a conspiracy hidden for centuries.
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