INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR SALLY CRONIN!
Sally Cronin
Please help me welcome, author Sally Cronin, to Jemsbooks.blog Segment, Interview an Author. Sally is a dear online friend who is a kind and generous supporter of her fellow authors. I am thrilled that she accepted my invitation to be interviewed.
It’s wonderful to have you here today, Sally. Feel free to begin and delight us with your books and story of how you became an author. It’s your turn to shine. The spotlight on upon you, my friend!
Please tell us something about yourself.
Thank you so much for inviting me to join you today Janice lovely to be here.
I am an author, blogger, and a nutritional therapist for the past twenty years. Previously I spent 25 years in the hospitality, retail and telecommunications industry. In my mid 40s I decided to retrain in nutrition, which was something I had been very interested in, and I wanted to find something I could do in my 90s if needed. I had always written poetry and short stories, but as I was going through this period of change physically, mentally and emotionally in my life, I decided to write about it in a journal. That became my first book Size Matters in 1998, and I have not looked back since. I love every aspect of blogging, writing fiction and non-fiction as well as supporting other authors. I have lived all over the world both as a child and in the last 38 years of being married to David, and we now are living in Ireland, closer to family.
Jjspina: You have had such a fascinating life with all your traveling. It’s no wonder that your stories are full and rich and delightful!
When did you know that you wanted to be an author?
I can remember thinking in my early teens, as I devoured the books by authors such as Nevil Shute, Wilbur Smith and Stuart Cloete, that one day I would love to be read by others. At that age I was not sure how to make that happen, but I was an avid reader, absorbing as much as I could, by reading the best of classic and modern writers. It took me another 25 years to make it happen, but it is never too late to start.
jjspina: Yes, it’s never too late, Sally.
How do you come up with ideas for your stories?
Usually I am triggered off by an image, but it also might be something that I live with every day. For Tales from the Garden, it was the statues that we inherited when we bought our Madrid house in 1999. In 2013 when we put the house on the market, we realised that most were too heavy to take with us. I wanted to have a record of them that was fun for children and adults alike, and the stories were the result. I might also see a headline that grabs my attention, and I usually copy and paste some of the story, keeping in a digital folder for future reference.
Jjspina: I loved your Tales from the Garden! I felt like a kid again reading about all the magical tales.
What do you expect to accomplish in 2019?
Online I would like to increase the level of author and blogger promotion on Smorgasbord. My café and bookstore is an important aspect of that, and I am planning a revamp in the New Year to bring in more elements to encourage readers to buy the books. I am also looking to add more specific columns to the blog, contributed by others who are knowledgeable about various aspects of health, writing, lifestyle etc. Offline we are looking to finish our two year renovation project on the former B&B we bought, with a view to having it ready to sell when the market is favourable. It is too big for us in the long term although we love the house and the area. We would like a smaller place eventually with a view of the sea. One thing is for sure…. I fully intend to be doing what I love, on and offline.
Jjspina: Wow, I can’t imagine doing more than you already do, Sally. You are amazing in so many ways. I wish you luck selling your place and finding a smaller one.
Please share your books with us and a synopsis of each.
Size Matters – Especially When You Weigh 330lb – written between 1996 and 1998 this charted my weight loss project to lose 150lbs. It was not just about the physical causes of my obesity, but the mental and emotional triggers that encouraged me to overeat. I revisited my childhood and young adulthood to discover the reasons that I might have fallen into bad habits. It also includes the programme that I still follow today to be healthy.
Just an Odd Job Girl – 2003 – I had a great many temporary jobs as we were often on the move, and I was regaling guests at a dinner party with some of the stories, and they suggested that I write a book. It became my first fiction release and is a romantic comedy. Imogen is early 50s and her husband goes off with a ‘Fast Tracker’ a younger woman not interested in doing the tougher years and likes her husband ready-made! Imogen revisits the jobs she has done in the past, leading to a new life and romance.
Just Food for Health is my only book not in eversion as it is too big with a great many illustrations. It followed on from my monthly newsletter, and covers the body and major organs, their function and potential health issues. I share the nutrients and foods that are necessary to keep the body and those organs healthy. It was intended at a manual for my clients, but it is also a guide to family health.
Flights of Fancy is a short story collection. Ghosts, romance, friendship of all kinds and revenge form the basis of this collection of short stories. Ghosts hint at a chance of coming back to say goodbye, exact a little payback, or simply to help someone else carry on living. Romance is not just for the young and nor are second chances. As for revenge, well… Never underestimate a group of elderly ladies with contacts from the past.
Forget the Viagra, Pass me a Carrot is a men’s health manual, written in response to the selling of Viagra online, and the health risks to taking it without being examined by a doctor first. It also covers all aspects of men’s health from heart disease to prostate cancer. Plus the nutrition required for men over 50 in particular. It is even more relevant now that Viagra is being sold over the counter in the UK for the first time.
Sam, A Shaggy Dog Story is our Lassie collie’s life story and his adventures in Ireland and in Spain. He covers his introduction to cats, human language, traveling in a car and favourite treats. Also the best way to manipulate your human! My most popular book and I am so pleased that he continues to steal people’s hearts even after all this time.
Turning Back the Clock is an anti-aging programme to ensure that our middle and later years are illness free and that we review our nutrition and our physical, mental and emotional well-being regularly. It covers the various issues that we might encounter and provides a nutritionally balanced eating programme to stay fit and healthy.
Media Training was a short book that I wrote for training programmes that I ran for businesses and charities, to ensure that they were making the most of the social media and press opportunities. I have updated since with a free pdf specifically for authors that is available by contacting me on sally.cronin@moyhill.com
Tales from the Garden in English and Spanish) is a fairy story and fantasy short story collection about the various stone statues in our garden in Spain. For all ages from 5 to 95 and introducing Queen Filigree, her court, and the Guardians who protect them all from humans and danger. There is romance, evil witches, a despotic winter fairy and fire breathing dragon.
What’s in a Name Volume One and Two – Short stories based on the alphabet with names from A – Z. There are names that have been passed down through thousands of years which have powerful and deep-rooted meaning to their bearers. Other names have been adopted from other languages, cultures and from the big screen. They all have one thing in common. They are with us from birth until the grave and they are how we are known to everyone that we meet.
Tales from the Irish Garden
A magic garden in the depths of the Emerald Isle becomes home to a Spanish fairy queen and her court that are in need of sanctuary. They face challenges and adventures as they encounter the folk and the creatures of the garden and the surrounding forest. Everyone with a story to tell in this fantasy fairy story.
Jjspina: I’ve read most of your books, Sal, and thoroughly enjoyed them. They are entertaining and are eclectic in nature. I look forward to reading your new book, Tales from the Irish Garden.
Please share your links and where to purchase your books.
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Sally-Cronin/e/B0096REZM2
What advice would you give prospective authors?
Be a reader first, especially of the genre you are planning to write about. Then have a basic plan of how you are going to get from start to finish, before sitting down to write a draft version. Then go back and read and rewrite, read again and again until you feel as good about your writing as you do about the books you have read. Spellcheck and then pass on to another few pairs of eyes, especially avid readers and ask for constructive feedback. If your book needs the attention of a professional for editing and proofreading, consider it a good investment. Whilst that is all going on, develop a platform from which to launch your book online – blog – social media etc. Above all else enjoy the experience.
Jjspina: Excellent advice from someone who knows. Thank you, Sally.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I would like to extend an invitation for any author reading this, who would like to benefit from free book promotion in the Café and Bookstore. I keep the authors to around 150 so that I can share news, reviews and new releases on a regular basis. Each post is promoted on my blog; and on my social media platforms, where most of the connections are authors and more importantly readers. My email for promotions is sally.cronin@moyhill.com – together we are stronger.
Jjspina: How kind and generous of you, Sal, to offer this to authors. I hope they contact you. They will benefit greatly from your promotions. I know I have.
Thanks so much Janice for your hospitality, it is much appreciated.
My links for the blog and social media.
Blog: https://smorgasbordinvitation.wordpress.com/
Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sally.cronin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sgc58
LinkedIn: http://uk.linkedin.com/in/sallycronin1
You are more than welcome, Sally. It was a pleasure to learn more about you and your fabulous books and to share them with my readers. I wish you much success with all your books. Please feel free to come back again to share new books. Congratulations on the new book today, Tales from the Irish Garden.
Here is one of my reviews of Sally’s wonderful book, What’s in a Name?
(Format: Kindle Edition). See all 8 reviews
Thank you, readers, for stopping by to read about this lovely and talented author. Please check out her links and books. You will be delighted as I am by her books.
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Blessings & Hugs!
Janice
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Sally, you are a whirlwind of energy and for this I am grateful. Without your enthusiasm, we’d not have all these terrific books you have written, the wonderful blog you host and all that is yet to come. Cheers to you for doing what you love both on and offline. ❤
Thank you Annette.. and I could not do what I do without the support of wonderful friend such as yourself and Janice..it takes a team.. ♥
Thank you, Sally! It goes the same for you too, my dear friend! Hugs 🤗 ❤️
Amen to all that, Annette! Sally is a wonder! 🤗 xx
Thank you so much Janice for making me look so good.. it is an honour to be your guest.. I will be in and out over the next few days and will reblog on my site on Tuesday… love and hugs ♥
My pleasure, Sally!! You do so much for me. This is the least an can do. Please come back again for more updates on your books and stuff! Much love & hugs ❤️
Thanks Janice ♥♥
♥️
Such a wonderful interview with a wonderful lady who does much in promoting others. Fabulous job, you two. It still amazes me when I read about Sally’s extraordinary weight loss. I’m always in awe and congratulate her on her many releases, starting with Size Matters. Sending you both wishes for a fantastic weekend!
Thank you, Mae. Sally is a special lady who is a wonderful supporter of her fellow authors. Hugs & love to you for your kind support ❤️
Thank you for the lovely comment Mae.. I am looking a little more matronly these days but thankfully have managed to keep the majority of the weight off. hugs ♥
Lovely interview. Sally amazes me.
Thank you, Robert. Yes, she is amazing! 😀
Many of the bloggers I follow amaze and inspire me. I love my little corner of WordPress.
Thanks Rob.. that is very kind.. hugsx
I’ve read some of Sally’s books, and really enjoyed them. I look forward to reading more of them. Also, I recommend anyone who hasn’t read them does so.
Thank you Tori.. that means a great deal.. hugs..
I agree, Tori! 🤗
this is such incredible, energetic and very well interview – Sally brings a very elegance and important touch and always such a pleasure to read and enjoy her writings…
Thank you Mihran that is very lovely… hugs
Yes, I agree, Mihrank. 😀
Hi Janice, Thank you. Another great interview of Sally. What a full life, eh! Makes your head spin.All power to her. Cheers! x
Thank you Joy.. you are a lovely supporter.. hugs xxx
Thank you, Joy. Yes, Sally is an incredible lady! 😘🤗
An excellent interview, ladies – and Sally, lovely to get to know more about you 🙂
I’d just like to say for anyone reading these comments that Sally is one of the most selfless, thoughtful people I’ve ‘met’ in the online writer community on Twitter. She does so much, for so many. Thank you, Sally – it’s not always easy to keep up with everyone (takes me an hour and a half to do my notifications alone, each morning!), but I so appreciate the interest you have taken in my books, your reviews, and all you have done to help me. Thank you xx
Thank you, Terry! Yes, Sally needs to shine now as she has shined the spotlight on many authors. 🤗😘
Thank you Terry, but is something that I find fascinating and very satisfying. I have met so many people who have broadened my horizons and I love being on a learning curve. Looking forward to much more to come. hugsxxx
A great interview with Sally! I never tire of reading about her exciting life and her stories are fabulous!!
Me neither, Darlene! 😘🤗
Thank you Darlene.. I think I might be getting to the point of repeating myself soon.. but I am so pleased you enjoy the stories..hugs xx
Always interesting to read about Sally’s life. Thanks for sharing.
It certainly is. She is amazing! 😘🤗
Thank you Stevie…I appreciate that.. hugsx
Wonderful interview!
Thank you, Jennie! 😘
You’re welcome, Janice!
Thank you Jennie, so pleased that you enjoyed.. hugsxx
You’re the best, Sally! 😀
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Love the interview! 🙂 Sally, thanks for all you do for so many. xo
Thank you Bette, I get so much out of being here that it is a pleasure. hugs xxx
Enjoyed this interview, Janice. Sally is a true gem. I’m impressed by her energy!
Thank you, Jacquie. That is so true – Sally is one of a kind precious gem who has an enormous amount of energy and enthusiasm in every that she does. 🤗
Thank you Jacquie.. lovely comment. I better keep taking the tablets…… hugs xxx♥
Wonderful interview! I enjoyed it very much. It’s so great to see Sally in the spotlight. She’s very deserving, not only for being a very talented writer but also for being such a great supporter of the indie community. Thanks for hosting her, Janice! Well done, Ladies!
Thank you, Vashti! Yes, I thought it was time for her to shine in the spotlight! 🤗 xx
❤ xx
Thank you Vashti.. it has been lovely visiting Janice and catching up with everyone. So pleased that you enjoyed.. hugs ♥
Hugs & Kisses ❤ xx
Thanks so much again Janice.. going out as reblog tomorrow… I appreciate your kindness and support very much ♥♥
Sorry girls, I just saw this post. And what a pleasant surprise to to pop by your blog Janice and find Sally here. 🙂 So happy to see you featured around blogland Sal, you deserve it! ❤ ❤ Hugs girls. xox
Thanks Debby.. I love being a guest on other people’s blogs and always a pleasure to be over at Janice’s home… hugs ♥♥
It’s a joy to have you, Sally! ❤️❤️❤️
Well, I’m looking forward to having you over on Sunday Sal. ❤ ❤
I am too Debby.. just finishing off the questions to send to you.. ♥♥
Received! ❤ xx
Thanks for stopping by, Debby! Sally deserves her time on the spotlight! 😘🤗❤️
Understatement Janice! 🙂 😉 ❤ xx
A wonderful interview. When is the paperback coming out Sally? xxx
Thank you Adele.. I will have the print copies later this week, unfortunately because we live in Ireland but have to sell through Amazon UK.. they are insisting we register for VAT despite it not being applied to print books.. it is all very frustrating.. So the books will be available directly from me. Easy enough as postage from here is very reasonable even world wide.. hugsxx
Oh fantastic, I will email you Sally. xxx
Thanks Adele.. I have your email.. hugsxx
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Just arrived Adele..will be selling privately as Amazon playing games with Irish authors.. Glad you enjoyed.. hugsxx
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Thanks, Sally! It was wonderful having you over at my blog for a change! 💕😘🤗❤️
A lovely interview with Sally, Janice. I didn’t know they were renovating a house. How exciting.
I know! It is. Thank you, Robbie! 😘🤗
Thank you Robbie.. we took on a wreck just over two years ago.. inside and in the garden. The trees had grown over the house and we had to strip everything out and start again. Still keeps us busy.. Last few jobs inside and out and we will be done. hugsx
Thank you Robbie… over two years in and nearly finished… then time to move on to the next one..my husband does enjoy a project… hugsxx
My parents also used to renovate houses, Sally. I grew up with renovations. We have also altered our current house extensively. It is fun.
We enjoy the process but I have a feeling that the next one will not be quite so ambitious.. What I really want is a large indoor pool with a small bedroom attached!! xx
Super interview, Janice. I don’t know how I missed this on Friday. Oh well, I’ve read it now and thank you for having Sally Join you.
Thank you, John! It was a pleasure to have her. She is such a lovely, talented, and generous lady. 🤗
he is for sure. 😀
Thank you very much John… hugs xx
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Thank you as always John… hugs xxx
XXX
Fantastic intervuew Janice so nice to see Sally featured as she does so much for indie authors. She must be a bit of a superwoman doing all she does. Kudos to her and Janice fir tgis lively feature. 🙂
Thank you, Marje. She is a mighty woman, that’s for sure. I don’t know how she accomplishes all that she does. 🤗
Neither do I! An extraordinarily energetic and giving women. 🙂
Thank you Marje.. always love to be visiting Janice and very happy to share the books of fellow authors.. just sorry not enough time to do more. hugs xx
Thank you so much Marje and thank you for sharing. hugs
Reblogged this on M J Mallon Author and commented:
A lady so deserving – Sally Cronin – huge supporter of indie authors being featured on Janice’s blog Jemsbooks.
I can’t believe Sally plans to do MORE on her blog – Oh, my. I’m chuckling at her energy, endless ideas, and enthusiasm. I still don’t know how the heck she does it, and she’s planning to do more?! Great interview of a woman we all admire. 🙂
Thank you, Diana! I know she is unbelievably adventuresome and accomplished in all that she has done. 🤗
Thank you Diana.. the winter is coming on.. long dark days and plenty of time to get into mischief. hugs xx
Thanks Diana..very kind of you.. and onward and upward…. hugs ♥
Great to see Sally interviewed here, Janice. Sally, I have started reading your blog more regularly and enjoy learning more about you and your books. It’s great to see how you’ve reinvented yourself. I too would like to find something I can do as I get older and retire from my day job.
Thank you very much. It has been a wonderful journey… and looking forward to more chapters to come…
Lovely interview ladies. Nice to know more about you Sally, you inspire all of us. 🙂
Thank you Balroop and for the lovely comment.. hugs ♥
Sorry so many of my comments ended up in spam Janice..WP clearly did not appreciate my responses.. hope you manage to retrieve them all.. ♥♥
I will check them out. I’m taking care of my grandson today. Get back to you later. 😘🤗
No worries Janice… just didn’t want you to think I was not responding.. enjoy being with your grandson..♥♥
All fixed. I will keep checking spam though. 🤗😘❤️
Thanks Janice…you are a star..♥
Anything for you, dear Sally! 😘🤗❤️
Nice interview, Sally!
I love learning more about friends in the blogosphere through interviews, and who better to interview than Sally. Sally response to “How do you come up with ideas for your stories?” was interesting, especially how the statues at their home in Madrid inspired her. Love and hugs, Janice and Sally.
Yes, it is fun learning more about our online friends. Sally is a multi-faceted and talented lady. 🤗 😘 ❤️
Yes, she is!