Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

My name is Hannah Howe. My age is a secret, but if you read my novel Sam’s Song you will get a clue 😉

Fiona: Where are you from?

I’m from Glamorgan in Wales.

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I’m university educated with a background in psychology. I live with my soul mate and our two children.

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

My latest news is the publication of Saving Grace, a Victorian mystery based on a true story. The book has been a pre-order hot new release for thirteen consecutive weeks and is currently in the top twenty on that chart.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing in school when a teacher asked me to write the school play. I’ve been writing ever since.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I’ve been writing stories from the age of ten, so I’ve never considered myself as a writer, yet I’ve always considered myself as a writer, if you see what I mean.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I read Robert B Parker’s Promised Land and thought we have similar styles, an interest in the same genre and subjects, maybe I should give it a try.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

For my novel, Sam’s Song, the title was easy. The theme song to that book, set in the music industry, was Love Hurts, and that became Sam’s Song.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I have a minimalist writing style. Reviewers have said that I convey a meaning in a paragraph where some authors might use a page, which is what I’m aiming for. I believe the prose in a private detective novel should be lean and mean.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

I write from life. I am not Sam, but maybe Sam is me. All my books are based on reality. Although I write mysteries at the centre of all my stories arethe emotional and psychological challenges we all face every day.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

 Most of my books are set locally so I rely on local research.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

My books are published by Goylake Publishing, an independent publisher. With my input, they arrange the cover designs.

Fiona: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

I write to entertain. If a reader takes away ameaningful message from my novels that’s a bonus.

Fiona: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?  Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?

I would recommend Ronesa Aveela. If you like Harry Potter, check out Ronesa’s Dragon Village. Denise McCabe writes lovely children’s stories while Heather Ramsey’s Snakebite is an excellent debut thriller. I should also mention historical novelists Erin Riley and Ellie Midwood. The list could go on…

Fiona: Outside of family members, name one entity that supported your commitment to become a published author.

My fellow authors. Their support has been inspirational.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

 I do. Someone recently described me as an authorpreneur 🙂

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Not a word. When the editing is done the book is complete.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I learned a great deal about Victorian times, their attitudes and morals. I also learned a lot about myself as a writer.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

We will be approaching film companies with Saving Grace. If any of them take up the option on the book I would be happy to accept their decisions in regard to the cast.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Write the story you want to read. Write what you believe in.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Just thank you so much for supporting my books.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I’m a chess addict, so I’m reading chess books.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

An old copy of The Secret Seven sticks in my mind, but I probably read many books before that.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

I have a Monty Pythonesque sense of humour. But the greatest joy is offered through my children.

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

To talk writing with the late Robert B Parker. I imagine that would be a great experience.

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Music, chess, genealogy, reading and classic black and white movies.

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

I love movies from the 1940s – 1970s, particularly mysteries and detective movies. I also enjoy TV from the 1970s, on DVD.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

I’m a vegetarian, so I love veggie food. Colours, red and light blue. Music, mostly from the 1960s and 1970s.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

My imagination doesn’t stretch that far 🙂

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

With my family.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

Well, that didn’t go as planned.

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

https://hannah-howe.com

https://www.amazon.com/Hannah-Howe/e/B00OK7E24E/

And thank you for this generous invitation. It’s been great fun 🙂

 

 

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