A Conversation With Helen Barer Author Of Fitness Kills
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Writing.
A Conversation with Helen Barer, Author of Fitness Kills
Introduction:
Today, Norm Goldman, Publisher & Editor of Bookpleasures.com, is thrilled to welcome Helen Barer, the author of Fitness Kills. Helen, a native New Yorker, has an extensive background in non-fiction, including cookbooks and television documentaries.
Interview:
Norm:
Good day, Helen. Thank you for joining us.
Helen:
Thank you for inviting me. I’m delighted to be here.
Norm:
Can you tell us how you came to write a book set in a fitness ranch in Baja, and a bit about your novel Fitness Kills?
Helen:
I’ve always been a fan of fitness spas, visiting them for over 20 years. About 12 years ago, during an aerobics class in Baja California, I realized the experience was akin to a cruise trip. We would all arrive together, spend a week, and become quite familiar with one another. Fitness Kills tells the story of Nora Franke, a New York City food writer who, after a breakup and weight gain, takes a temporary job as a food consultant at a fitness spa. Nora is drawn into the world of spa regulars, and as mysterious deaths occur, she becomes determined to unravel the mystery while staying safe.
Norm:
What drew you to the mystery genre?
Helen:
I enjoy stories with a clear beginning, middle, and end, centered around a strong character?"preferably a woman?"who reflects on contemporary values and lifestyles.
Norm:
What are the key elements of a compelling mystery novel?
Helen:
Suspense is crucial, as is making readers care about the characters by introducing them believably. This isn’t a fantasy genre, so authenticity is important.
Norm:
Do you work improvisationally, or do you have a set plan?
Helen:
I start with a meticulous plan: a summary, a chapter-by-chapter outline, and a clear ending. However, the middle can be unpredictable as the characters often guide the narrative in new directions.
Norm:
How did you find transitioning into mystery fiction writing?
Helen:
Writing fiction was entirely new to me, like reinventing the wheel. Initially, it felt awkward until a New School writing teacher suggested switching to the first-person perspective. That change helped me find my voice, which is slightly sarcastic, New York-infused, and vulnerable. While dialogues came naturally, plotting was a challenge.
Norm:
How did you secure representation for your book?
Helen:
I pitched to several agents, who complemented my writing but didn’t find it fitting for their needs. It was discouraging, but members of my writing workshop, published by Five Star (an imprint of Thomson Gale that publishes mysteries), recommended I query them. I did, and they quickly accepted my manuscript.
Norm:
What challenges did you face writing your book, and how did you overcome them?
Helen:
Writing fiction was like learning a new language. I immersed myself in mysteries, writing guides, and attended workshops and conferences. My writing group played a critical role in helping me refine my work through extensive feedback.
Norm:
Did anyone influence your decision to become a writer?
Helen:
My mother was a significant influence. She always had a book in hand, and from a young age, she encouraged me to write. My first notable work was a fourth-grade project titled "My Life in the Wilderness," which received an A.
Norm:
What advice do you have for those unsure if writing is their career path?
Helen:
Don’t quit your day job until you’re ready. Writing full-time can be stressful without financial security. Also, developing a thick skin is essential.
Norm:
What are you working on next, and how can readers stay updated on your projects?
Helen:
I’m currently working on the next Nora Franke mystery while promoting Fitness Kills. Readers can visit my website, http://www.helenbarer.com, for more information.
Norm:
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Helen:
You’ve been very thorough. I can’t think of anything more to add.
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This revision streamlines the interview for clarity and engagement, emphasizing key insights and preserving Helen’s unique voice.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: A Conversation With Helen Barer Author Of Fitness Kills.
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