Writer interview: Laura Barnard

A smiling woman with long brown hair and blue eyes wearing a blue patterned shirt, seated in front of a door.

On Wednesdays on social media, people use the hashtag #WriterWednesday to chat about all things author, book and writing, including authors promoting their own work. As I love to support self-published writers, I thought I’d join in and will be featuring a UK self-published writer every Wednesday on the website.

This week, I met London writer Laura Barnard to find out more…

Please tell everyone about yourself; when did you first become interested in writing?
I’ve always been interested in writing stories from as young as I can remember. It was a dream I never imagined coming true. I still pinch myself every day.

Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
I remember one I wrote and handed in to a teacher. It was a horror story which is so far away from what I write now!

What genre/genres do your books fall under?
Chick Lit/Romantic Comedy.

What is your latest book called, what is it about and what was the inspiration behind the book?
Porn Money & Wannabe Mummy. I do like unusual titles! It’s the third in the series for The Debt & the Doormat series.

Book cover of 'Porn Money & Wannabe Mummy' by Laura Barnard, featuring two illustrated women, one with dark hair and one with blonde hair, surrounded by floating money and a syringe.

Besides your current book, do you have any new projects coming up?
Yes, I’m currently working on a young adult romantic comedy which I’m really excited about.

Where can people find your books?
My books are on Amazon, iBooks, Kobo and Nook.

What has been the greatest moment in your writing career?
Attending my first book signing and having people come up to me saying how much they love my books. I still can’t believe it.

Besides writing, what hobbies or interests do you enjoy in your spare time?
Walking my dog, watching movies and matchmaking my mates.

Which novelists do you admire?
Sophie Kinsella and Lindsey Kelk are my idols.

What has been the best piece of writing advice you’ve received?
Not to worry about bad reviews.

Do you have any tips or advice for other indie authors?
I would tell them to keep going and do it for the love. You’re not going to get rich or famous so you have to love it. You have to wake up every morning and the first thing you think to do is write.

You can find out more about Laura and her books on her website or via Facebook, Goodreads or Instagram.