Hi, I’m Carla, a Historical Fiction Author and Workshop Instructor living in Scotland. I have three highly-reviewed novels available at main outlets, Waterstones, Amazon, Barnes and Noble.
I love writing books, and not just because they became a source of income, but because they connected me with creative and imaginative people.
How it all began.
Ten years ago, in my small home town of Gibraltar, I had an ambition. I wanted to write a novel. A really bloody GOOD one! To be honest, I didn’t really know how, but I never let go of my ambition and once I started writing and learning, I never stopped.
It was tough, because the small mediterranean enclave I lived in didn’t have a fiction-writing literary scene. It didn’t even have a writing group. So I decided to create one in an effort to meet people who were as passionate about the written word as I was, and hence, ‘Rock Writers’ was borne.
I mingled with some great local writers, created author events and writing competitions to help others achieve their goals. I made meaningful connections, not only with aspiring writers but with best-selling novelists, publishers and editors based in the UK.
Goals and achievements.
Finally, I confidently (well almost confidently) published my first book after more than a year of solid research and writing.
A year after its publication my book reached classic kindle bestselling rank in Historical Fiction categories multiple times. My initial target was to sell 100 books in one year, (a target I initially thought was impossible and just a ‘never gonna happen‘ pipe dream.)
I ended up achieving thousands of sales, and some great feedback from media and readers.
I couldn’t have been happier than when my physical paperbacks were deposited in the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, the National Library of Scotland and Trinity College in Dublin.
So dreams are possible right?
Even when dreamt on a little Rock.
My focus in helping others.
Today I reside in Edinburgh, where I continue to lend my knowledge to aspiring writers in workshops within the city.
I guide. I listen. I teach them what I learned. How I did it and why.
I love seeing new writers discover their potential. I know how tough it is to stand out in a crowd and struggle to have your work appreciated. It often feels like everyone is fighting for that same sweet spot.
What is success?
When I am asked about success, I believe that each of us measures success in our own way. For me it’s not about winning, or the number one spot, or how many sales I can get. (As nice as these things are.)
It’s more about the scary, blind-folded, unknown journey ahead and the strength that you somehow discovered to keep going. The way you carried hope around like some kind of pocket charm, clutching on to it when your constant companion named, ‘Doubt’ weighed you down.
Success is about saying ‘Nah, I’m not going to give up,’ even when your nose is touching the wall.
It’s about what kind of person the whole journey made you become.
Get in touch.
I’m always happy to have a genuine email fired into my inbox. I talk a lot about writing, it’s what I do best. (Otherwise it’s just going to be about the laundry pile-up, or the weather, right?)
Drop me a line! Tell me your dreams.
Hi Carla,
I have recently completed my first novel – The Bench and came across you while researching. I read your short story also titled The Bench – must be a Carla thingI am in the process of finding a suitable agent. do you have any tips?
Regards
Carla Day
Hello Carla, great to meet you and thanks for stopping by. If you are in the UK have you tried the Writers and Artists yearbook which lists publisher/agent details and requirements in the UK? The following listing is also useful http://www.writersservices.com/listings/uk-literary-agent-listing. There is a lot of research involved in finding an agent and I also advise not to overlook the smaller and lesser known businesses, which would improve your chances and can also offer many publishing advantages.
In any case, I wish you the very best of luck with your book!
Regards
Carla
Hello Carla,
I’ve spent a most enjoyable day reading The Last Gift, which I will recommend to others. The book was very well written, good pace of delivery, and tugged at the emotions; I admit to shedding a tear in places.
One short paragraph near the end of the book was outstanding, one of the best I have ever read. The book finished in the correct place; so often authors get this wrong. I look forward to reading your next. I remain very impressed.
best wishes,
Jonno
Hi Carla. I discovered your books in my book club in Chester. Can I get a signed copy?
Regards
Miriam
Certainly, just contact me with your details and i’ll arrange it for you 🙂
Hi Carla I left a review on your book page but it didnt show. Just wanted to say how much I love reading your books and so looking forward to the next.
Best wishes
MIchaela x
Pleased to hear that Michaela. Yes the latest one is almost ready for publication. I’ll be announcing it here when it is. Thanks for your continuous support.
I ordered both your books (your new one) and I’m excited to read them after hearing so many good things.
Thank you!
Thank you x
Hi Carla, I just finished reading Girl forgotten adn wanted to leave a message to say that I absolutely loved it!! i also loved the last gift, and the way your stories are so thought-provoking. Thank you so much and I look forward to your next written works..
Theresa Scott
Hi Cara I read your books and loved them but would like to know if there are any audio copies please ?
Hello Janice. Some good news on that should arrive in the New Year. Thanks for your interest.
Hi Carla, just wanted to drop a note to say how much I’ve enjoyed Girl Forgoten and also that you’re a great inspiration to wannabe writers like me! It would be great to see more posted ‘how to’help articles. 🙂
Lorna
You’re very kind to leave this message. I appreciate it very much and glad you enjoyed the book so much. Watch out for my new helpful email writing courses which will be published in the near future. Thanks for your support.
Carla
Is the writing group still running ?
Hello Moira, not in Gibraltar sadly. A physical group is formed in my new location but check out the courses I’m providing online soon, these are based on the physical classes you attended.
Best regards
Carla
Appreciate the genuine posts and advice. Thanks !
Hi Carla
I’m keen to discuss a possible publishing project with you. Please email me for details.
Many thanks
Alan