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Q: What inspired you to start writing?
Jane Austen! I loved her books growing up, and I've always had a good imagination so I started writing little four page stories - they usually involved me and my family or fanfiction and it grew from there.
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Q: Can you tell us a little about your latest book?
Desire & Duty is all about class and the determination to prove that it doesn't matter who you are or where you come from - it centres around Cal who comes from this claustrophobic, stuffy, rich lifestyle - there's a certain way to behave and all he wants to do is be himself - his girlfriend is unapologetic and a bit of a rebel so she's one to look out for! So it's a question of is he brave enough to take a leaf out of her book?
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Q: How do you create your characters?
Well...it depends what the story is! I know the sort of characters I like; complex but heart of gold underneath so that's the basic foundation and I work on them from there.
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Q: What does your typical writing day look like?
Well...I just take my time really - I usually start writing late morning - early afternoon and then carry on through the day, there's no rush so I take a leisurely approach.
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Q: What has been the most rewarding part of being an indie author?
When I see people reading it! I'm fully aware my books won't be everyone's cup of tea, but it's good to know I've sparked some interest.
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Q: What’s one challenge you’ve faced in your writing journey?
Trying to get noticed! I used to formally self-publish but that was all getting quite stressful - and i don't have the strongest constitution when it comes to reviews I'll be honest! People can read my books for free on my site - then if they hate the book they don't feel they've wasted their money which is completely understandable and I don't have the stress and worry about publishing on time or bad reviews - it's a win-win!
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Q: Do you have any favorite writing tools or apps?
Yes! I use Deepai - and before people think I use it to write my book, let me say I merely create the characters and map out the storyline; it just gives me a better idea and it helps with the creative process - it's merely a guide and then I write the story with all my own ideas.
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Q: What advice would you give to new or aspiring indie authors?
I won't sugar coat it - writing is hard work, and there are challenges like writer's block so don't commit to it unless you absolutely love doing it or you have an idea that can't be left alone, and take breaks between each book otherwise you can have the enthusiasm sucked out of you - finally, write in your favourite genre, it should be a hobby, not a chore!
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Q: How do you handle book promotion as an indie author?
Well...sites like yours help a great deal! It's hard when you're doing it yourself and can't afford thousands of pounds for a publicist! I just do what I can and I use social media.
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Q: What’s next for you? Are you working on a new book?
My next book will be called The Unseen Asset - an enemies-to-lovers book, I just love those. I've only just published Desire & Duty, though, so I'll have a rest first.
