Over, Under, Across & Through question

Interview with Author Barbara Cultera
Hosted By Accredited Author Ken Donaldson


1.I have seen you, as I am sure many other readers are familiar with you from the self-publishing forums, give us a little insight into your background as a writer.

I’ve been a writer and a reader since early childhood, but I never thought of becoming an author until 1999. One day, a very vivid scene about a father and daughter developed in my mind during my lunch break at the university where I worked. I immediately typed a description of the emotional encounter, which I still consider to be extremely powerful. It became the catalyst for my first novel, Over, Under, Across & Through: Book 1 of The Real World Series. Once I started writing novels, I was hooked! I love watching my characters and their stories evolve. I also love that readers remark so often how much they identify with my characters and can’t put my books down, because they have to know what happens next. I began publishing in 2012. Prim & Proper will be my sixth release.

2.Tell me what other authors do you enjoy, who inspired you or influenced you the most to become a writer?

I love variety. I’ve read so many books over the years and could never list all of my favorites. However, some of my favorite authors include Karen Marie Moning, David Baldacci, Carla Neggers, Anne Rice, Stephen King, Rachel Gibson, Diana Gabaldon , Kristen Ashley, J.R. Ward, and Douglas Adams. These writers and the others who inspire me have different styles, talents, and approaches. Their ability to capture my imagination as well as their perseverance in our often-challenging field provides me with constant affirmation and an appreciation of diversity and creativity.

3.What made you decide upon the genre you are currently pursuing?
Prim &Proper is my initial contemporary romance release. However, it is the first of many. The more I write in this genre, the more I find I love it. I have quite a few contemporary romance drafts in queue for publication. I prefer writing about men, women, and their real-life obstacles and triumphs. I also highlight the emotional side of their relationships as well as their alternately tender and intense physical encounters.

4.What is special about how you write. Do you have any set routine of method you follow?

I’m an organic writer whose stories captivate readers. When I begin working on a book, I’m struck by an idea, scene, or character and start typing. I’m always thinking about the novel I’m writing, no matter what else I’m doing. It’s amazing the way the characters develop and the way the storylines evolve and resolve themselves. My brain seems to piece everything together with my direction as though I was weaving an intricate pattern or completing a puzzle with piles of loose pieces. Sometimes, I deliberately make decisions about characters or situations. Other times, I have “Ah-ha!” moments, because my brain subconsciously works things out for me with seemingly no effort. I revel in the creative process and can’t imagine plotting or storyboarding. It would take away from the adventure for me and my readers!


5.What is the future plans you see for your writing next?
I’ve also written fiction, mystery, and fantasy romance. In addition to publishing more in these genres and contemporary romance, I recently started writing a draft that I thought would be romantic suspense. I quickly discovered it’s going to be an erotic thriller. More diversity! I find joy in my craft and in the phenomenal responses I get from readers. Writing and reaching people brings happiness to authors and readers alike. Since I’m a reader as well as a writer, I never want to lose sight of what books are all about – connecting.


6.Do you have any brief thoughts in passing you would like to share with the readers?
Never stop reading, imagining, and exploring! Lose yourself in books when you want to escape, but allow them to lead you back to the truth of who you really are. Celebrate you, and never allow anyone to break your wings.


I do wish you all the best in the future. Certainly has been a real pleasure Talk with you Barbara. That is where we conclude this Interview.