Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a multi-disciplinary artist based in Knoxville, TN and specialize in Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music and Warli art (South Indian forms of dance & music and tribal art from Western India). I believe that art (all kinds of art) can and should tell stories that move audiences to becoming better and more compassionate human beings. I frequently collaborate with artists, scientists, literary scholars and philosophers; individuals who all share my vision of creating a better world through art.

I have written one book

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is called Taikamaa & The Twin Stars

As a multi-disciplinary artist, I am moved and inspired by all forms of art. I also know that some stories are better danced; some are better sung or painted; others are better written. When I wrote Taikamaa & The Twin Stars, I could see the entire book play like a movie in my head, so all I had to do was to type out that narrative. This book of course, I wrote as a gift to my daughter, an avid reader with vivid imagination, on her tenth birthday.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I usually start off writing on paper with my fountain pen. Once I have about 4 or 5 pages of written material, I type it out (which allows for easier editing). Writing on paper and then typing it out solidifies the story structure for me.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
My absolute favorite author who has influenced me is Enid Blyton, a prolific British author of children’s fiction. The sheer variety of characters and situations that she created taught me that one could find a creative spark in the most simple or mundane of things. Close upon the heels of Enid Blyton are Agatha Christie, Jeffery Archer, Sidney Sheldon and Robin Cook. I’ve also grown quite fond of Devdutt Patnaik, who has very interesting takes on Hindu Mythology, which I’ve found useful for my dance works.

What are you working on now?
I am working on Part 2 of the Taikamaa series. I am also working on a non-fiction publication highlighting farming practices in South India and how food and art are integral parts of the cultural identity of any land.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My publicist – Tracy Lamourie of Lamourie Media!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t be afraid to pen down your thoughts. The first draft is meant to be messy and possibly grammatically incorrect! But that’s what editing and proof-reading is for. Having beta-readers is an invaluable resource – find people you trust who will give you constructive feedback.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just Do It!
There are always a hundred reasons not to do something. But there is always a way to carve out time, just a little bit everyday, that will eventually become something beautiful.

What are you reading now?
I am reading “Cutting the Ties that Bind”, by Phyllis Krystal

What’s next for you as a writer?
Finishing Part 2 of the Taikamaa series!
Illustrated board book for very young readers

What is your favorite book of all time?
Gone With the Wind!

Author Websites and Profiles
Ramya Kapadia Website
Ramya Kapadia Amazon Profile

Ramya Kapadia’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m currently a freelance writer. I have an Honours BA, an MBA, a certificate in Dispute Resolution, and am a certified Master Life Coach.
I was added to the Wall of Role Models by the Diversity Advancement Network in July 2016.
I published my first book Embrace Your Destiny: 12 Steps to Living the Life You Deserve in 2013, which is based on my journey with depression after the death of my father.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Lulu: Adventures in a Dog’s Life, and it was inspired by the stories I would share about my first dog, who passed away in 2019.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
When I blog, I tend to write as if I’m writing to myself, it’s like sharing my diary, but my personal thoughts are where I get my inspiration.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Paulo Coelho, Elizabeth Gilbert, Susan Jeffers, Dr. Wayne Dyer and Louise Hay have all written books that have influenced and inspired me.

What are you working on now?
I’m working on a book based on my experiences and observations living in another country.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I did a lot of speaking engagements and public book signings at local bookstores with my first book. Now that I’m living in a new country with a smaller network, I’m looking at various online methods to promote my latest book.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
The more you write, the better you’ll get. Don’t be afraid to share your work with the world, someone needs to hear what you have to say.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t worry about what other people think about you, other people’s opinions are none of your business.

What are you reading now?
The Power of Eight by Lynne McTaggart

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d like to expand the formats and genres I write in. I’d like to do some political essays and social commentary writing.

What is your favorite book of all time?
Black Beauty – Anna Sewell

Author Websites and Profiles
Sandra Dawes Website
Sandra Dawes Amazon Profile

Sandra Dawes’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account