Her Story
About Paula
Paula Paul is a seasoned novelist and fiction writer based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with a distinguished career spanning nearly five decades. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and political science from Eastern New Mexico University and began her professional journey as a journalist, covering a wide range of topics including crime, business, arts, health, and social issues. Her years as a reporter for the Albuquerque Tribune and Albuquerque Journal helped develop her storytelling skills and provided a strong foundation for her later work as a novelist.
Over the course of her writing career, Paula has published 35 novels across multiple genres, including children’s books, mysteries, romance, and general fiction. She considers general fiction her favorite genre because of its creative freedom and ability to explore complex human experiences. A charter member of Southwest Writers, she has been actively involved in the writing community, both learning from and contributing to fellow authors through workshops and mentorship. One of her most meaningful works is Crazy Quilt, a novel inspired by her personal experience with breast cancer, which examines how illness can transform perspectives, relationships, and personal growth.
Paula’s writing is driven by a desire to make a positive impact and connect with readers through meaningful stories. She considers her greatest achievement the ability to influence and inspire others, particularly after receiving feedback from a reader who shared that Crazy Quilt had changed her life. Beyond her literary accomplishments, Paula values family, love, and tolerance, emphasizing these principles in her relationships with her children and grandchildren. She continues to encourage aspiring writers to persevere, master their craft, and write authentically without fear of self-censorship.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Paula
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my desire to make a positive difference in the world. One of my most meaningful moments was hearing a woman say, “You changed my life,” after reading Crazy Quilt. It reaffirmed the impact of my work and the importance of creating something that resonates with others.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple: don’t give up. If you want to achieve something, you have to be willing to work hard, stay committed, and keep pushing forward until you reach your goals.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to never give up. It is not an easy profession, but dedication and a commitment to learning the craft are essential. Trust your voice, don’t censor yourself, and focus on telling the story first—then refine and edit along the way.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The publishing industry has changed significantly. With mergers and fewer major publishing houses, access to traditional publishing has become more limited, especially for writers without an agent. While small presses and self-publishing provide valuable opportunities, they often come with different challenges, including lower financial returns.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are family, love, and compassion. My two children and my grandchildren are my greatest priorities, and one of the most important lessons I hope to teach them is the importance of love, acceptance, and tolerance toward others.
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