Heather’s Bookshelf: Author Interview with Ruth O’Neill
Book Title: The Sisters
Released: 10/05/23
Genre: Psychological Suspense Thriller
Interview by Heather L. Barksdale
What inspired you to write “The Sisters”?
O’Neill: I'm deeply passionate about my book, The Sisters. Having two sisters of my own, I understand the importance of sisterhood in life. In the book, I've drawn on my own relationship with my sisters, incorporating some of their key attributes into the story.
While my book explores themes of betrayal, hurt, lies, and deceit, it's important to emphasise that these elements do not reflect the dynamics within my own relationship with my sisters. In fact, it was an enjoyable challenge to infuse these darker aspects into my characters, and I believe it showcases one of my strengths as a writer.
Writing The Sisters has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience, and I felt a sense of sadness when it came time to pen those final words: The End.
How did you come up with the names of your main characters?
O’Neill: The process of naming characters can be highly personal and variable. I draw from a range of influences to find the perfect names that fit my vision for my stories and characters. Sometimes my inspiration comes from people I know, either directly or indirectly and can involve borrowing names from friends, family members, or acquaintances.
Is there anything that you want readers to know about you, your writing process or your book?
O’Neill: When I write, I do have a rough plan and structure in my mind, but I don’t usually know where it’s going at that time. The storyline develops as I progress with the characters. This approach can lead to unexpected plot twists and character developments, making the writing process itself an adventure of discovery.
Writing is therapeutic for me. It allows me to explore my own thoughts and feelings and provides a means of escape from everyday life.
If "The Sisters" was adapted into a movie, who would you like to see cast to play your lead characters?
O’Neill: Ooh, this is a difficult one. I think sisters Ava, Tanya and Belle could be played by Margot Robbie, Stephanie Lawence and Emma Watson and Tom Hardy as narcissist Orias Shelby.
When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to break yourself out of it?
O’Neill: Writer's block can be frustrating. To break myself out of it I give myself permission to step away from my writing for a little while. I engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate me, such as going for a walk, exercising, or reading a book unrelated to my writing project. Sometimes, the best way for me to overcome writer's block is to simply start writing, even if I’m not sure where my story is going. I allow myself to write poorly and make mistakes but getting words on the page is often the first step to overcoming writer's block.
Are there any tips that you would like to share with other aspiring authors?
O’Neill: Believe in Yourself: Have confidence in your abilities as a writer and believe in the value of your stories. Trust your instincts and keep pushing forward, even when doubt creeps in.
Always remember, every writer's journey is unique, so find what works best for you and keep writing!
What is your favorite genre, book, and/or author?
O’Neill: I love reading as well as writing psychological thrillers, and my favourite authors in this genre are:
K.L. Slater, Keri Beevis, Valerie Keogh and B.A. Paris.
What are you working on next?
O’Neill: A new psychological suspense thriller - She’s Gone
A six-year-old girl vanishes without a trace while playing outside with her brother. As panic grips the community, her mother's past resurfaces, shrouded in secrets she thought long buried. Desperate to find her daughter before time runs out, she delves into the dark past of her history, revealing chilling truths and facing haunting repercussions. Will she be able to locate her daughter at the expense of revealing a long-lived lie?
Interested in checking out the book for yourself?
Find it for purchase here
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