Photo: Award-winning author Barbara Avon continues to enchant readers with her passionate storytelling and unique voice across diverse genres.
Celebrating A Versatile Literary Voice
Barbara Avon shares insights into her writing process, the influence of her Italian heritage, and successfully navigating multiple genres with a unique voice.
Barbara Avon is a literary force whose creative talents span a remarkable array of genres, including romance, horror, time travel, and paranormal fiction. Her unique ability to infuse her works with vivid, cinematic imagery, alongside her exploration of the complexities of the human experience, has earned her widespread acclaim. Notable works such as “Revived,” the recipient of the “Horror Book of the Year” award in 2022, and “Sultry Is the Night,” highlight the boundless creativity and heartfelt passion that define her storytelling.
Drawing from her Italian heritage, Avon enriches her narratives with cultural depth and authenticity. Her characters and settings are often imbued with a sense of cultural richness and personal authenticity that captivates readers, transporting them to another world. This is evident in her stories, where Italian influences weave seamlessly into the fabric of her writing, adding layers of depth and resonance.
“One may never have the same ground beneath their feet, but the soil will forever be trapped within them.” – Barbara Avon
Barbara Avon’s evocative storytelling and vivid imagery captivate readers, establishing her as a masterful multi-genre author with boundless creativity.
Barbara’s writing philosophy is clear and impactful: write from the heart. This testament to the enduring magic of words and love is woven into every piece she creates. Her heartfelt belief in the transformative power of storytelling establishes her as an author who crafts each narrative with emotional depth and a touch of magic.
In a conversation with Reader’s House, Avon delves into the intricacies of her storytelling journey, shedding light on how her Italian heritage continues to inspire her. Reflecting on her roots, she beautifully articulates, “One may never have the same ground beneath their feet, but the soil will forever be trapped within them,” highlighting how deeply her cultural heritage influences her creative process. This sentiment is woven through her narratives, offering a touchstone of authenticity in her character development and thematic exploration.
“Books are magic. Love is the most remarkable magic.” – Barbara Avon
Transitioning from romance to more chilling genres like horror and paranormal romance seemed a natural progression for Avon. Her inclination as a storyteller to explore diverse narratives is akin to a grandmother in a rocking chair, asking children what story they wish to hear. She seeks to navigate and illuminate every facet of life, whether romantic, disturbing, or hauntingly beautiful. Her ability to switch genres emphasizes her versatility and relentless pursuit of storytelling that challenges both herself and her audience.
Research plays a crucial role in crafting her time travel stories, ensuring that historical accuracy seamlessly blends with imagination. Avon cites the use of resources such as Google to ensure that stories like “Timepiece” retain historical accuracy down to the language and fashion of 1932. Yet, the essence of her narratives often transcends scientific precision, urging readers to suspend disbelief and enjoy the journey through time and imagination.
Avon’s horror novels, such as “Revived,” strike a delicate balance between psychological depth and supernatural elements. By delving into the human psyche and intertwining reality with supernatural overtones, she creates compelling narratives that engage and enthrall. Avon’s preference for psychological horror over outright gore ensures her stories resonate with emotional depth and subtlety, frequently accompanied by subplots of love that mirror life’s intricacies and even in death.
The cinematic quality of Avon’s writing is a testament to her ability to evoke vivid imagery with a carefully chosen lexicon. Her meticulous selection of words parallels a painter’s use of a color palette, ensuring each scene is both concise and emotionally impactful.
For aspiring authors eager to genre-hop successfully while maintaining a distinctive voice, Avon offers invaluable advice. She suggests writing without fear, from the heart, and embracing one’s unique storytelling voice. Even when a project feels uninspired, she encourages storytellers to feel comfortable starting fresh and exploring new creative horizons.
Barbara Avon’s stories, imbued with a passion for crafting unique and engaging narratives, continue to enthrall readers across the globe. Her journey is a testament to the power of cultural influence, fearless exploration of genres, and the magic of words, making her a beacon of inspiration in the literary world.
This article was adapted from an interview with Barbara Avon in the latest issue of Reader’s House.
