Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am an author, musician and song writer. I have played in several bands, performing live and recording music. I have a degree in Learning Disability nursing and a post graduate diploma in autism. I live in Dunfermline, Fife, with my wife, teenage daughter, older son and golden retriever.
The Homecoming is my first novel. It has taken many forms, and as my writing improved, over the years I revisited the novel and redrafted it about 5 times until I felt it was ready to be unleashed in the published form.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The homecoming. It was inspired by a love of all things Greek, her islands, people, landscapes, sea, light and ambience, all of which are important themes and symbols in my writing. At its basic level it is a love story, most of us are products of love stories, our parents love story, without which we wouldn’t be here.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like listening to classical music when I write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Most of Anita Shreve’s books, Sabastian Faulks and William Boyd.
What are you working on now?
I am writing my second novel and hoping it won’t take as long as The Homecoming.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I have used social media and other author’s advice. This is my first book so I am still learning.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read, Read, Read, and then write.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Happiness is not getting what you want but wanting what you have got.
What are you reading now?
Midnight in St Petersburg by Vernora Bennett.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Write my second book.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks.
Fortunes Rock by Anita Shreve
Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Author Websites and Profiles
Dougie McHale Amazon Profile
Dougie McHale’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account