Interview with Edwina Gateley

Author of Soul Sisters: (Orbis) and “Psalms of a Laywoman” (Roman and Littlefield)

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

England.
Now residing in Erie, PA

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

Originally came from England to US to study in Chicago. Than spent a nine month retreat in a forest – led me to be conscious of a call to reach out to women in prostitution. Got involved in that, started a program for the women – and am still here!

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

A natural inclination to poetry …

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

written from the heart – both narrative and poetry . Soul expression – had to be shared.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

People who care about social justice, women’s issues and also are in touch with their souls and emotions.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

That my writing changed peoples’ lives and thinking. I feel blessed.

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

Writing is a gift – let it flow when the time is right.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

Many thousands!

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

???

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Being a natural poet.
Already reasonably known in the publishing world.
Established writer.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Finding time and space.
Finding right publisher.
Not good at selling myself!

When do you think you will write your next book?

In process

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I have used 5 traditional publishers and also self published two books.