Today we’d like to introduce you to Carol Campbell.
Hi Carol, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey into writing horror and ghost stories has been a blend of fascination with storytelling and a personal encounter that sparked my imagination from a young age. It all started with a contest in kindergarten. We were asked to paint a picture of what we thought was happening in a particular song. Despite being among much older competitors, I managed to clinch the most creative award. However, it was a haunting encounter with the supernatural that truly set me on this path. At the age of five, while waiting at a railroad crossing with my father, I experienced something inexplicable. As the caboose passed by, I found myself waving, much to my father’s confusion. He asked me who I was waving at, and I replied, “Molly.” To my father’s bewilderment, I described her standing on the back porch of the caboose, bidding us farewell. He laughed and told me to stop acting foolish because no one was there. When we arrived home, reality delivered a chilling revelation. My mom told my dad that our neighbor, Molly, had just suffered a fatal heart attack. That eerie experience left a lasting impression on me, kindling a fascination with the supernatural that endures to this day.
For most of my life, I worked in retail management and raised two wonderful children, Mark and Jamie. Though I had always harbored a passion for writing, it wasn’t until 2017 that I finally had the opportunity to pursue it seriously. With the support of Steve, Mark, Jamie, and a few close friends and family, I dove headfirst into the world of horror and ghost story writing, drawing inspiration from my personal encounters and fascination with the supernatural.
Through unwavering dedication and resilience, I take pride in the milestones I’ve achieved thus far. My journey, far from over, has been a profound learning experience marked by peaks of success and valleys of challenges. Yet, every twist and turn has been vital in molding me into the author I am today. It’s been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, but one that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey of self-publishing has been far from smooth, yet incredibly rewarding. Having complete control over my work has been fulfilling, but bringing it to the attention of readers has presented numerous challenges. One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced is visibility. In a world where millions of books are published each year, standing out in the bustling marketplace is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Crafting a book that not only distinguishes itself from the competition but also captures the hearts of readers has proven to be one of my most daunting challenges.
Marketing and promotion are crucial, and this often means navigating unfamiliar terrain. Finding effective strategies to reach my target audience and promote my books within a limited budget has also been challenging.
As a self-published author, I’m learning to juggle multiple roles, from writer, editor, and cover designer to taking charge of marketing and distribution. Balancing these responsibilities alongside other commitments can be utterly exhausting at times.
Yet, despite the countless challenges I’ve faced, an undeniable sense of fulfillment comes from having complete creative control over my work. And the opportunity to connect directly with my readers — that’s where the real magic lies. It’s these personal connections that fuel my passion and keep me going, even when the road gets tough.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in writing horror and ghost stories that take readers on a journey through the unexpected. Each of my books is distinguished by its twisted endings, often delving into the mysterious realms of the spirit world. What makes my tales stand out is that I blend in – family, friends, and even my fans – who volunteer to be characters. To further engage my audience, I go beyond the pages of the book. I design eye-catching t-shirts featuring the book cover on the front and the characters on the back, making the story a wearable experience. Seeing fans wearing and enjoying these unique pieces is always a joy. Additionally, I bring my stories to life through YouTube videos, adding another dimension to the world I’ve created.
Currently, I’m eagerly working on my upcoming book, “Heavenly Wishes, Micky’s Magical Things.” Micky Vermooch is one of the central and enigmatic figures in the book. He’s the owner of the curious and mystical emporium known as Micky’s Magical Things, nestled in the atmospheric coastal town of Bayou Vista, Louisiana. Micky himself is shrouded in mystery, with whispers among the townsfolk suggesting he may possess otherworldly abilities.
The protagonist, Loretta Cobb, finds herself drawn to Micky’s shop in her darkest hour. A child enduring abuse, Loretta’s life changes dramatically when she encounters Micky and receives a mysterious gift from him. As a result of Loretta’s encounter, a transformational turn of events sets the stage for a captivating and haunting story.
Micky’s role extends beyond that of a mere shopkeeper; he becomes a pivotal figure in Loretta’s life, guiding her through the shadows of her past and offering her glimpses of a brighter future. But even though Micky seems nice, there’s something mysterious about him that makes people wonder if he’s really as good as he seems. Readers are left guessing about what he’s really up to and how powerful he might be.
With Micky at the center of the story, “Heavenly Wishes, Micky’s Magical Things” delves into the rich tapestry of Bayou Vista and its inhabitants, painting a vivid portrait of a town steeped in secrets, magic, and a long line of missing women. In addition, the book sets the stage for a sequel twenty years later, promising another tantalizing twist in the ongoing saga of Bayou Vista and its enigmatic residents.
However, what I’m most proud of isn’t just the stories themselves but the community of supporters who willingly step into the roles of characters within them, even my daughter. Whether they meet fates as varied as being a murderer, a ghost, or even a voodoo queen, their enthusiasm and good spirit shine through. Their unwavering support and eagerness to be a part of my literary world are what truly make my work fulfilling. With a solid and dedicated fan base by my side, I’m excited to continue crafting tales that thrill, chill, and spook my readers.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Writing is like a thrilling rollercoaster ride, packed with highs and lows. When it gets tough, don’t throw in the towel. Have faith in yourself, cling to your ideas, and venture bravely into the eerie depths of your imagination—because often, the most riveting tales emerge from our innermost fears. Use your own experiences and deepest anxieties as fuel. The most spine-tingling stories resonate because they tap into something deeply personal. So, trust your instincts, embrace the shadows, and unleash your creativity. And remember, a good ghost story can captivate and chill your readers like nothing else.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.authorcarolacampbellghoststories.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarolACampbellGhostStories
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@AuthorCarolA.Campbell
