Hi, I’m Carla, a historical fiction author and workshop leader living in Scotland. I have three highly-reviewed novels available at main outlets, Waterstones, Amazon, Barnes and Noble.
I love writing books, 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 good one!
To be honest, I didn’t really know HOW, or WHAT I wanted to write, but I never let go of my dream, and once I started writing and learning, I never stopped.
It was tough, because the small Rock where I lived 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 and hence, ‘Rock Writers Group’ came to fruition.
I made meaningful connections, not only with aspiring writers but with best-selling novelists, publishers and editors in the UK.
I also created author events and writing competitions in order to help others achieve their goals.
GOALS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
I published my first book after a year of dedicated work and research.
One year after publication The Last Gift reached bestseller rank in a few Historical Fiction categories.
My initial dream was to sell 50 to 100 books in one year, (a target I thought was impossible.)
Instead, I ended up achieving thousands of sales and great features in mags and newspapers.
So some dreams are possible right?
Even those dreamt on a little Rock.
HELPING OTHERS
Today I continue to help and inspire ordinary people. I guide them. I listen. I teach them what I’ve learned and how I did it. Helping people brings me real joy.
I love seeing new writers discover their potential. I know how tough it is to stand out in a crowd and the struggle to have your work appreciated.
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 really about winning, or a No 1 spot, or even how many sales I can achieve. (As nice as these things are.)
It’s more about not stepping off the scary unknown journey and there’s a strength that you somehow discover that keeps you going.
In truth I was genuinely shocked that people liked what I produced, but I am so glad that I persevered.
My success came in saying to myself:
” I’m not going to give up, even though I’m not sure I can do this.”
It’s also about what kind of person your journey has made you become.
GET IN TOUCH
I’m always happy to have a genuine email fired into my inbox. I think a lot about writing every day.
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