I studied Russian at secondary school.
I had the most wonderful and inspirational languages teacher called Joan McCrae. I remember she was a huge David Bowie fan and had posters of him all around her class storeroom.
The Room at the Manor
She sadly passed away around twelve years ago, but I still think of her fondly.
I used to spend a lot of my pocket money on exercise books.
When I was around eight, I began buying exercise books to write in at home. I would fill them up completely with my stories, before moving onto the next one.
I can’t write at home. There are too many distractions.
Instead, I take myself off to my favourite local tea shop. It has a lovely, cosy atmosphere and the baking is irresistible.
Each morning, I make sure I’ve got my notebooks and several pens and head off there for a good couple of hours.
The only down side is that the baking is so wonderful, I have had to increase my exercise regime to compensate….
I am a stationery obsessive.
Notebooks; pens; writing pads… I can’t pass a Paperchase without having to go in for a little browse.
On my shelf by my PC at home, I’ve got a selection of new notebooks that are waiting patiently for me.
I buy and use the plainer styles of notebooks for my freelance work and general ideas and save the fancier, more expensive ones for writing my novels in first. I find it easier to write everything in long hand to begin with and then type it up.
I have a TBR pile by my bed that I am gradually working through (honest)
As well as new stationery, I can’t resist buying new books. I’m currently reading “A Good Heart is Hard to Find” by Trisha Ashley and I’m loving it.
I also write poetry.
I find writing poetry is a great escape and acts as a nice diversion from my book writing.
Some of my poems have been published in anthologies and I’ve been shortlisted a couple of times in Writing Magazine, as well as recently being awarded second place in another of their poetry competitions.
I am a keen walker
I’m a real fresh air fanatic and love going for brisk walks.
It’s also a great way for me to think through plot ideas and relax.
I love writing along to music.
It inspires me and I’m fascinated with the story behind songs and their lyrics. I’m a fan of rock music in particular and my favourite band are Fleetwood Mac. I think Steve Nicks is a legend.
One of my favourite novels is “Who’s Afraid of Mr Wolfe?” by Hazel Osmond.
I remember reading it while on holiday in Malta a few years ago and I was completely hooked! Jack Wolfe is irresistible.
I’ve written the drafts of my next two novels.
I start with characters and setting and work from there.
I love reading books where I can feel myself imagining what places are like and can conjure up sights and scents.