Susan Gabriel

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

I grew up in a small town that I longed to leave. My escape into adventure took place at the local library, where I read most of the books in the building. As an adult, I had many real-life adventures—some were wonderful, some were terrible, but most were somewhere in the middle. All of them were opportunities to learn, and I always believed that someday I would write books about it all.

When and why did you start writing books?

I started writing short books when I was in grade school because I wanted to make up adventures for others to read about.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

My 35-year career as a professional writer started when I was loaned out to a technical writing department because they were short-handed, At the time, I was a test technician working at TRW on space shuttle communications. Within three days, I knew I'd found my calling and asked to be transferred to the tech writing department permanently. I eventually started writing proposals, as well, and I wrote and managed proposals for more than 30 years.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

My favorite character is named Leon Perry and he's in a novel I haven't yet finished. He's modeled partly after a friend I first met when I worked at TRW as a technician.

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

Wheels of Injustice was the hardest to write and took the longest to finish—more than 30 years. It's a memoir that describes one of the most painful experiences in my life, which is why it took so long to finish.

Who is your favourite author and book?

Mere Christianity by CS Lewis

What book are you reading right now?

I am listening to an excellent audio book by Eric Metaxas called Is Atheism Dead?

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

I am often inspired by conversations with friends and acquaintances.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

watching movies, going on trips in our RV, chatting online with my friend who lives in Nigeria

Do you have any new books in the works?

Yes, three