Q&A with Grace Olson – Author Interview

Grace Olson is a writer whose storytelling captivates readers with its depth and authenticity. In this exclusive Q&A, we take a closer look at her journey as an author, exploring the inspirations behind her work and the creative process that brings her stories to life. From early influences to the challenges of crafting compelling narratives, Grace shares valuable insights into her world of writing. Her passion for storytelling shines through, making this interview a must-read for fans and aspiring writers alike.

Throughout our conversation, Grace opens up about the triumphs and struggles of being an author, offering a glimpse into the dedication required to bring a book from concept to completion. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this Q&A provides an engaging and inspiring look at the mind behind the stories.

About The Author

Tell us more about you

I absolutely love the colour blue!

What are the three items you’d take on a deserted island?

I would take my sheep, my horses and my library of books!

Who is your biggest role model?

My biggest role model is my now dead aunty who was a very successful children’s author in Canada. She taught me how to follow my dreams.

What is your favourite book and who is your favourite author?

My favourite book is a children’s book, Jill’s Gymkhana. It’s so full of adventure and positivity -it was and still is the book I read to cheer me up when I feel down.

My current favourite author is my friend, Sally Coulthard. She writes about all things to do with natural history in such a fascinating way. She is a brilliant writer!

Do you prefer e-books, physical books or audiobooks?

I love physical books and hardbacks are my absolute favourite. They make reading very ceremonial!

Is writing your full-time profession or a hobby?

At the moment it’s half of what I do. The other half of my time is spent doing my therapy work with my wonderful sheep and horses. It’s my soul purpose to help others find their true inner self and heal themselves.

What social media platform do you like and use the most?

I’m busiest on Facebook but I also post on Instagram.

My social channels are:

Your Writing Process

How do you go about starting a new novel?

With the first two I jumped right in but then it took ages of editing to get them perfect! With this third one I am planning it more to see how it feels to do it in a more focused way. Fingers crossed by being more prepared, it will mean a quicker edit.

Where do you like to write?

I love writing in my living room because it has a glorious red maple tree by the window that helps me feel connected to nature.

What do you like most about writing?

I love how it feels to go into a trance state and allow the words to flow through me. It’s such a magical feeling.

What do you find stops you from writing more?

I’m self-published so I have to spend hours on PR and marketing. I do enjoy it and I have been incredibly fortunate to get featured in so many top-level magazines, newspapers, radio stations, podcasts and TV filming – Yorkshire Vet and news items too. Seriously – how lucky is that? I still can’t believe it!

What genres do you like to write and why?

I love writing my memoirs because it’s therapeutic for me but they have also helped t transform other people’s lives. So in that sense, they are an extension of my therapy work.

I have really enjoyed writing my sheepy children’s books too because they are filled with empowering messages and I want to help young children learn how they can think positively in order to avoid potential depression when they hit their teenage years.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring writers?

Always work with a highly qualified and successful editor if you want your books to get anywhere! 

Showcase your books!

How many books have you written and if more than one, what’s your favourite?

I’ve written 2 tragicomic memoirs and 4 children’s books (the 4^th will be published in June)

My favourite was ooh blimey that’s a tough question…!! I love them all!! But the most special is the first memoir, The Yard – How A Horse Healed My Heart. This was the book that massively changed my life.

How long did The Yard take to write?

It took 2 years to write, edit, re-edit and then re-edit and then launch it. I don’t like to rush. I prefer to ensure the quality of writing is as good as it can be. 

Lastly, what is your favourite thing about being an author?

I love the tremendous volume of heartfelt messages I receive from readers who tell me how my books have inspired them to make their lives better. It is the best thing ever to know that my writing can help others!

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