Barbara Avon Weaves Magic Through Words and Genres

The Unique Voice Behind Award-Winning Fiction

PHOTO: Award-winning author Barbara Avon: A storyteller whose passion, creativity, and unique voice continue to enchant readers across the globe.

Barbara Avon discusses her Italian heritage, multi-genre exploration, writing process, and the emotional depth that defines her unforgettable stories. A celebrated author, she offers wisdom for aspiring writers and storytelling enthusiasts.

Barbara Avon is a literary force to be reckoned with. A masterful multi-genre author, she has crafted spellbinding stories that span romance, horror, time travel, and paranormal fiction, earning her accolades and admiration from readers and literary circles alike. Her talent for infusing vivid, cinematic imagery into her writing, coupled with her ability to explore the deepest corners of the human condition, sets her apart as a storyteller. Whether it’s the hauntingly beautiful “Revived,” crowned as the “Horror Book of the Year” in 2022, or her recent triumph, the award-winning “Sultry Is the Night,” Barbara Avon’s works are a testament to her boundless creativity and passion for the written word.

Her Italian heritage breathes life into her narratives, adding rich cultural tapestries and personal authenticity to her characters and settings. With a style that is as versatile as it is distinct, Barbara has captivated readers with tales that transport them through time, stir their emotions, and leave them utterly spellbound. As she continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, her philosophy of writing from the heart resonates deeply—cementing her legacy as an author who truly believes in the magic of books, the magic of words, and the magic of love.

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we present this insightful interview with Barbara Avon in this issue of Reader’s House. Prepare to step into her world and uncover the inspiration behind her remarkable works, the craft of her writing process, and the unending devotion that fuels her literary journey. For those who have yet to discover her brilliance, there’s no better time to be swept away by her universe of imagination.

How did your Italian heritage influence the themes and characters in your novels, particularly in your early works?

One may never have the same ground beneath their feet, but the soil will forever be trapped within them. I immigrated to Canada in 1974, but I will forever be Italian. My first female protagonist is Italian. (All of my primary protagonists are male, save for my latest horror story featuring Coralie.) One of my characters states, “Italians don’t bleed blood. They bleed wine.” He is referring to the Italian culture that revolves around food, drink, and family. My heritage is extremely important to me, and I fictitiously immortalize my own memories in my novels.

“One may never have the same ground beneath their feet, but the soil will forever be trapped within them.” – Barbara Avon

What inspired you to transition from writing romance with suspense elements to exploring genres like horror and paranormal romance?

I have always considered myself a storyteller. Picture a grandmother figure in a rocking chair with children encircling her as they sit on the floor, and she asks them, “What type of story would you like to hear today?” I wish to explore every aspect of life – whether romantic, disturbing, or hauntingly beautiful.

Can you discuss the creative process behind your time travel stories and how you ensure historical accuracy within fictional narratives?

Google is a writer’s best friend. One of my time travel stories, “Timepiece”, opens in 1932, and it did take a lot of research to ensure historical accuracy regarding language, fashion, and way of life. The rest was inspired by all the classic movies I love that star iconic actors like Cary Grant, and Katharine Hepburn. Everything else came from my imagination. Science doesn’t play a role in my time travel stories. The reader must suspend belief and simply enjoy being whisked away to a different era.

“Books are magic. Love is the most remarkable magic.” – Barbara Avon

In your horror novels, such as “Revived,” how do you balance psychological depth with supernatural elements to create compelling narratives?

Reality can often be scarier than fiction. I delve into the human psyche to dig out that which most scares us and has scarred us. Throw in a few ghosts, some ghastly scenes, and a deep sense of foreboding, and I end up with psychological horror such as “The Sixth Sense” rather than a bloody story like “Friday the 13^th.” Horror is one of my favourite genres to write and I always include a sub-love story. Love is a part of life, and therefore, it’s also a part of death.

Your readers often describe your books as cinematic. How do you craft your stories to evoke vivid, movie-like imagery?

Words. It’s a simple answer, but the most accurate one. A writer doesn’t require a million words to paint a scene. A writer only needs the right words. It’s the same reason my stories are typically short. With the perfect alphabetical palette, you can fill a page like a painter would a small canvas and still pack an emotional punch.

With “The Gift,” you delve into the mystery genre. What challenges did you face in blending romance with suspenseful storytelling?

A budding, romantic relationship is suspenseful. It wasn’t difficult to marry a romantic storyline with the mystery/thriller aspect. Michael Rossi, our male protagonist in “The Gift” and its sequel “Michael’s Choice”, is a stubborn, passionate, Italian who loves deeply. When the woman he loves puts herself in a dangerous, precarious situation, the reader finds themselves sharing his angst. One reader honoured me by reaching out to me to share their enthusiasm about the story. They stated that they were “unable to rest until Michael did”. We are all flawed, and I think that readers appreciate characters that aren’t cardboard cut-outs, but someone they can relate to, cheer for, or even mourn with.

What advice would you offer to aspiring authors aiming to successfully transition between different genres while maintaining a unique voice?

I’ve been told many times that my books are easily recognizable as Barbara Avon novels. That statement made me think, because I don’t only write various genres, I write in various styles. Then I remember that little old grandma in the rocking chair who is holding her audience captive with her funny character voices, hand gestures, and charming intonation. Every author has a unique voice, just like grandma. I’d tell aspiring authors: Write without fear, write from your heart, and readers will remember you. However, just like a painter discards an uninspired canvas, don’t be afraid to begin again. I, for one, am not adept at slaying dragons… then again, I have yet to try.