1. What inspired you to become a writer?
I’ve always written but an obsession with a BBC period drama sparked an urge to write fan fic and post it online. My writing career developed from there. I don’t think I ever ‘became’ a writer. I think I’ve always been one. It’s just that my words are now in the public domain and I get paid!
2. What's your favourite book of all time?
I’ve lots of favourite books as I’ve been an avid reader since very young. The one that I go back to time and time again and which has inspired my writing is Lady of Hay by Barbara Erskine.
3. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Keep going, work hard, do your industry research, network whenever and wherever you can and write because you are compelled to do so. It has to be in the blood.
4. What is the most frustrating thing about being an author?
I often dream stories only to find, when I write them down, they make absolutely no sense whatsoever. They always seem so great when I’m dreaming! And the waiting around that’s involved in a writing life can be tiresome. Waiting for publishers and people in the industry to respond can be frustrating. I’m impatient and have never been good at watching the inbox.
5. What's your favourite movie?
I love a good romcom and my Christmas favourite is While You Were Sleeping. It’s witty, warm-hearted, has well-rounded characters, a fabulous cast and a wonderful ending. I watch it every Christmas and it starts the season off brilliantly.
6. What's better, dogs or cats?
Anyone who reads my books will be in no doubt of my answer. Dogs features in most of them! I’ve shared my home with lots of spaniels of various sorts and currently have a cockapoo and a rescue cocker spaniel. I like cats but they make me sneeze.
7. If money was no object, how would you spend your life?
I’d like to say I’d spend it doing charitable work but the thought of a big fat yacht and cruising around the world appeals. Maybe when I’ve got that out of my system, I’d do the charity work. I’d like to do something around girls and their access to education. Or maybe buy a theatre? That would be fun.
8. Do you draw from personal experiences when you write?
Sometimes it’s possible to extrapolate from one’s own experiences so yes. However, I’ve never run a seaside café or died in World War 1 and have written about both. Research is your friend. Most people are more than happy to share their experiences and knowledge. Just remember to acknowledge them.
9. What is more important? Strong characters or a strong storyline?
Good question! I’d go for strong characters as I believe they create the strong storylines.
10. What advice would you give to first time writers when submitting their work to publishers or literary agents?
Make sure your work is ready to be submitted. Hone it, edit it, read it and reread it until you’re sick of looking at it! Give it to a trusted reader and listen to what they say. Research who takes your genre. Read the publishers’ and agents’ guidelines and follow them to the letter. And then wait. Don’t be afraid to chase up, again following the guidelines stated. Develop a thick skin for the inevitable rejections and then persevere with another submission.
Georgia Hill is the author of On a Falling Tide, for more information or to purchase a copy click here.
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