Get to Know the Author Behind My Novels
- Brian Van Norman
- Feb 7
- 4 min read
Writing novels is not just about putting words on a page; it’s about sharing a piece of oneself with the world. As an author, I often find that readers are curious about the person behind the stories they love. In this post, I invite you to explore my journey as a writer, my inspirations, and the experiences that have shaped my novels.

My Journey to Becoming an Author
Every author has a unique path to their craft. For me, the journey began in childhood. I was an avid reader, often lost in the pages of fantasy worlds. The stories I read sparked my imagination and inspired me to create my own. I started writing short stories in elementary school, and by the time I reached high school, I was determined to become a novelist.
Early Influences
Several authors have influenced my writing style and storytelling approach. Here are a few who have left a lasting impact on me:
J.K. Rowling: Her ability to create a rich, immersive world in the Harry Potter series taught me the importance of world-building.
Jane Austen: Her keen observations of human behavior and relationships have inspired me to focus on character development in my own work.
Stephen King: His mastery of suspense and ability to evoke emotion has influenced my approach to tension in storytelling.
These authors, among others, have shaped my writing philosophy and encouraged me to find my own voice.
The Writing Process
Writing a novel is a complex and often challenging process. Here’s a glimpse into how I approach it:
Idea Generation
Every novel starts with an idea. I often draw inspiration from:
Personal experiences: Events in my life can spark a story idea.
Current events: News stories can provide a backdrop for fiction.
Dreams: Sometimes, the most bizarre dreams lead to the most interesting plots.
Outlining
Before diving into writing, I create a rough outline. This helps me organize my thoughts and ensure that the story has a clear direction. I typically include:
Character arcs: Understanding how my characters will grow throughout the story.
Plot points: Key events that drive the narrative forward.
Themes: The underlying messages I want to convey.
Writing and Revising
Once I have my outline, I start writing. I aim for a daily word count to keep myself accountable. After completing the first draft, I enter the revision phase, which often involves:
Editing for clarity: Ensuring that my ideas are communicated effectively.
Character development: Making sure my characters are relatable and dynamic.
Polishing prose: Enhancing the language to create a more engaging reading experience.
Inspirations Behind My Novels
Each of my novels has its own unique inspiration. Here are a few examples:
Novel One: "Whispers of the Past"
This novel was inspired by my fascination with history. I spent hours researching a specific time period and found myself captivated by the stories of individuals who lived through significant events. The characters in "Whispers of the Past" are based on real people, and their struggles resonate with themes of resilience and hope.
Novel Two: "The Forgotten Garden"
"The Forgotten Garden" was born from my love of nature. I often find solace in gardens and parks, and I wanted to explore the idea of a hidden garden that holds secrets. The novel intertwines themes of love, loss, and the healing power of nature, reflecting my belief in the importance of connecting with the environment.
Novel Three: "Chasing Shadows"
This novel delves into the complexities of human relationships. It was inspired by my observations of friendships and the challenges that arise over time. I wanted to create a narrative that explores the nuances of loyalty, betrayal, and forgiveness, ultimately highlighting the importance of communication.
Connecting with Readers
One of the most rewarding aspects of being an author is connecting with readers. I love hearing their thoughts and interpretations of my work. Here are some ways I engage with my audience:
Book Signings and Events
I enjoy participating in book signings and literary events. Meeting readers face-to-face allows me to share my passion for storytelling and learn what resonates with them. These interactions often lead to meaningful conversations about the themes and characters in my novels.
Online Presence
In today’s digital age, connecting with readers online is essential. I maintain an active presence on social media and my author website, where I share updates, writing tips, and insights into my creative process. Engaging with readers through comments and messages helps me build a community around my work.
Reader Feedback
I value feedback from my readers. It helps me grow as a writer and understand what elements of my stories resonate most. I often encourage readers to share their thoughts through reviews or direct messages, and I take their insights into account when crafting future novels.
The Future of My Writing
As I look ahead, I am excited about the stories yet to be told. I have several projects in the pipeline, each with its own unique premise and characters. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming next:
Upcoming Novel: "Echoes of Tomorrow"
This novel explores the concept of time travel and its implications on relationships. It poses the question: If you could change one moment in your past, would you? I am currently in the research phase, diving into theories of time and how they can be woven into a compelling narrative.
Expanding My Horizons
I am also considering branching out into different genres. While I have primarily focused on contemporary fiction, I am intrigued by the idea of writing a fantasy novel. The challenge of creating a new world and its rules excites me, and I look forward to exploring this new territory.
Final Thoughts
Writing is a journey filled with ups and downs, but it is one I cherish deeply. Each novel is a reflection of my experiences, thoughts, and emotions. I hope that through my stories, readers can find a piece of themselves and feel connected to the characters and themes I explore.
As I continue to grow as a writer, I invite you to join me on this journey. Whether you are a long-time reader or just discovering my work, your support means the world to me. Keep an eye out for my upcoming projects, and don’t hesitate to reach out—I love hearing from you!
Thank you for taking the time to get to know the author behind my novels. Your interest and engagement inspire me to keep writing and sharing my stories with the world.



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