Interview With Author Jenny Worstall
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have written 7 pocket novels and they have been published by DC Thomson. 5 of them have been republished as Linford Romance large print library books.
Last year Dragonblade published the three books in my Regency Romance series The Heart of Bath. Book 1 Lost and Found. Book 2 Breaking Free. Book 3 Starting Again.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Starting Again is the third and final book in my Regency series The Heart of Bath. It was inspired by my childhood home of Bath and by Number 1 The Royal Crescent which is where some of my characters live. The Featheringtons from Bridgerton also live at Number 1! I was lucky enough to see part of the first Bridgerton movie being filmed in Bath a while back and that rekindled my interest in all things Regency. And of course, in her 250th Anniversary year, who can be failed to be inspired by the great Jane Austen herself?
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I stand at my desk as sitting for hours is not good for the back. I also dictate into my phone as much as possible when I do the first draft of a novel because then I can be wandering round anywhere, not tied to the computer. And yes, I have experienced some strange looks from people when dictating a romantic scene while walking in the local park…!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m influenced by the classics, and have to mention the great Jane Austen again as this is her 250th anniversary year. But I read widely among contemporary authors too, for example I’ve just read a wonderful book by Claire Fuller, ‘Bitter Orange,’ which I thoroughly recommend, and on the lighter side I’ve just devoured The Cruise Club’ by Caroline James – very witty and lots of fun!
I belong to a group of authors called The Surrey Buddies and we meet up regularly to exchange ideas and support each other (and, most importantly, to gossip!). Many thanks to Linda Corbett, Jennifer Bibby, Alison Sherlock, Nina Barclay, Sally Harris and Cara Cooper.
What are you working on now?
I am writing a contemporary romantic comedy inspired by Jane Eyre – with a dash of Notting Hill. She’s running from her past – and he’s stuck in his.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I find social media the best, in particular Instagram and Facebook.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never give up! There are millions of potential readers out there in the world.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Best advice for writing novels comes from Somerset Maugham:
“There are three rules for writing a novel. Unfortunately no one knows what they are.”
What are you reading now?
I’m reading the latest romantic comedy from Alison Sherlock, ‘Coming Home to Maple Tree Lodge.’ It’s great! Like all her novels, it’s heartwarming, funny and creates a world that readers would love to live in full time.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Good question! I will have to wait and see…
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?
Persuasion by Jane Austen, because it’s my favourite book.
Jane Eyre because it’s my second favourite book.
Whatever Gill Hornby is going to write next. I love her books!
And finally a surprise book, something I haven’t read before, perhaps out of my comfort zone. Any suggestions?
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