Debbie Berlin

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Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

Born in Fall River, Massachusetts (home to Lizzy Borden, Emerald Lagasse, and the USS Massachusetts), I attended BMC Durfee High School where I was the Salutatorian. I attended MIT, majoring in biology with a minor in writing, and played varsity volleyball. Fast forward to graduating from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, NY, joining the Army, being stationed at Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center (Intern of the year), three years as a General Medical Officer at Ft. Jackson in Columbia, SC, completing my residency in General Surgery at the Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, (not related to the medical school) and moving to Orange Park, FL, where I’ve lived for 20 years. Drafted as the unofficial photographer of my children’s sports teams, I’ve been affectionally dubbed the “Mamarazzi.” I have a Cavelier Spaniel named Bentley.

When and why did you start writing books?

Since the first day I started to outline the story, the words have flooded the pages like a tsunami, and haven’t stopped. This book is the first in a series. I chased a dream and now am a self-published author. I set my goals high and work every day to achieve them.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

I minored in Writing in college and The Third Estate Secrets of the Manor has been swimming in my head for years. Now that Mom’s Taxi is officially closed and my presence is no longer needed in the stands on the soccer or football fields, I have the time to devote to realizing my dream of becoming a published author.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

Lovac is my favorite character. Lovac had minimal importance in my first draft. As I continued my subsequent developmental edits, I realized that Lovac's actions in the first chapter are what propels the motivation and consequences of the main characters, and he deserved more of a story line. As the edits progressed, Lovac's story became just as important as Sophie's and added much needed layering in the intrigue and complexity of the story.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

The Third Estate Secrets of the Manor is my debut novel.

Who is your favourite author and book?

I love Agatha Christie and all her books!

What book are you reading right now?

I'm rereading And then there were none. My favorite book!!

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

I received a mug from my family for Christmas: "Be Careful or you'll end up in my book." I laughed. That's not how I do it. I pay attention to current events, interesting people I observe in my travels, and past experiences to craft interesting scenes and characters that jump off the page.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Photography and writing have always been my passion.

Do you have any new books in the works?

YES! I've started the sequel to Secrets of the Manor. It's the next chapter in Sophie and Lovac's journey. Stay tuned for a wild ride!