We had the good fortune of connecting with Carol A. Campbell and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Carol A., why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because I’ve always been drawn to the mysterious and the unknown. Writing thriller paranormal books allows me to explore those darker, more intriguing aspects of life that fascinate me. It’s a way for me to dive into worlds where anything is possible and to create stories that challenge perceptions, evoke emotions, and keep readers on the edge of their seats. For me, it’s not just about writing—it’s about bringing to life the kinds of stories that have always captivated my imagination.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As I mentioned, I write supernatural thrillers, and what truly sets my work apart is the unique characters—many of whom are inspired by the people around me. My family, friends, and fans who volunteer to be part of my stories give my books an authenticity and depth that resonate with readers. I’m most excited about my newest book, Heavenly Wishes, set in the haunted coastal town of Bayou Vista, Louisiana. This town, with its eerie atmosphere and dark secrets, is more than just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing character in its own right.
In Heavenly Wishes, fear is palpable. Women are disappearing, and ten-year-old Loretta Cobb finds herself trapped with her sinister stepfather, Roy. Her only hope is Micky’s Magical Things, a shop where the line between the living and the dead blurs. As Halloween draws near, Loretta uncovers secrets that make her question everything, realizing that the real monsters might be the ones closest to her.
Getting to where I am today professionally hasn’t been easy. The road was filled with challenges, but I never gave up. I’ve developed thick skin over the years, learning that persistence is key. Every story I write is not just a tale of suspense and mystery but also a place for readers to escape to. Bayou Vista will be the setting for my next four to five books, allowing readers to become intimately familiar with the town. I even create visuals of the different places in Bayou Vista so readers can vividly imagine the world my characters inhabit.
What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s deeply personal. My characters, inspired by real people, bring authenticity to my books. My stories are meant to offer an escape, a journey into a world where the supernatural and the everyday collide. It’s this blend of reality and imagination, grounded in the experiences and personalities of those I know, that sets my work apart. I’m proud of the world I’ve created and excited to share it with my readers.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Texas, we’d have an unforgettable road trip planned. We’d start along the Gulf of Mexico, maybe spending the first day hanging out on the beach, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the coastal vibes. From there, we’d head down to San Antonio, where the River Walk would be our main destination—it’s such a unique and vibrant place to explore, especially with its mix of history, culture, and great food.
Next, we’d make our way to Austin, where we’d dive into the live music scene and check out some of the quirky spots that make the city so special. Of course, we couldn’t miss out on some authentic Tex-Mex food, and maybe a night out on Sixth Street to experience the local nightlife.
After Austin, we’d cruise through the hill country to Brenham, where Blue Bell Ice Cream is a must. We could visit the creamery and enjoy some of the best ice cream around, maybe paired with a picnic in one of the beautiful parks nearby. The scenic drive alone is worth the trip, with all the rolling hills and wildflowers.
We’d wrap up the week in Houston, my home base, with a day trip to Galveston. In Galveston, we’d explore Moody Gardens—it’s a fantastic spot with its beautiful gardens. Afterward, we could relax on the beach or stroll along the historic Strand District.
Back in Houston, we’d finish the trip with some classic Texas barbecue and more Tex-Mex, maybe even catching a game or visiting the Space Center if time allows. With so much to see and do, we’d definitely need more than a week to cover it all, but it would be a trip to remember, full of great food, beautiful sights, and a true taste of what Texas has to offer.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
It’s definitely my family, friends, and fans who deserve a big shoutout. They’re the heart and soul behind my stories because they volunteer to be characters in my fiction novels. Their support goes beyond encouragement—they literally become part of the worlds I create. Without their willingness to jump into my fictional universes and inspire the characters that readers connect with, my stories wouldn’t have the same depth and realism. Their love, support, and, quite frankly, their bravery in seeing themselves in the pages of my books mean everything to me.
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