2022 Local Authors Expo Spotlight: Antonia Gavrihel

Antonia Gavrihel is one of nearly 30 authors who will be at the Central Library this Saturday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m., for the 2022 Local Authors Expo. 

Gavrihel gives some insight into her writing process and inspiration in this short Q&A with the Birmingham Public Library. Keep reading to learn more about Gavrihel before the 2022 Local Authors Expo.

BPL: Tell me about your book.

Gavrihel: BACK TO ONE is the story of an unlikely but deep, abiding, and platonic friendship between Cate, a beautiful, married mother of a three-year-old, and Kyle, a divorced, handsome movie star with a tabloid reputation. The world of gossip doesn't buy it! It's too perfect. And yet they are supportive and caring to each other, always there to pick up the pieces, even when Cate's husband leaves her for another woman. As the Back to One series continues in the second book in the series of six, AMBIENT LIGHT, Cate and Kyle continue their adventures in Hollywood as their careers take off to new heights. Once again, public scrutiny not only tries to disrupt their close ties but is ultimately dangerous.   

BPL: What inspired you to write your book(s)?

Gavrihel: Loneliness. Back in 1994, I was married, and my husband traveled out of town about 28 days out of the month. We had a two-year-old that I pretty much raised alone. After working all day, I'd pick up my son from daycare, we'd play, and then I'd feed him, bathe him, and put him to bed. Now quiet and alone, I would stare at an empty apartment with nothing to do. To entertain myself, I began writing the perfect friendship I could only dream of having.

BPL: Who is your favorite author and why?

Gavrihel: JK Rowling crafted the most unique, relatable characters despite it being in a fantasy world. That has always been my goal to write relatable characters who feel like your best friends.

BPL: What do you hope readers get out of your books?

Gavrihel: A sense of adventure, fulfillment, and happiness, as well as the desire to develop a close relationship with the people they love. 

BPL: Any advice you would give for new authors or those desiring to become an author?

Gavrihel: Write to please yourself. Developing an audience for your creations is a plus and a perk. You may never get the public recognition you desire. That should never be your goal. The goal is to craft something personal and satisfying to you. Ultimately, your writing must entertain and fulfill you, the author.

You can purchase copies of her book online or at the Local Authors Expo this Saturday, November 5, at the Central Library, 10:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m.

Click here to see the full list of the authors and publishers coming.