Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have published three novels, the first two through the UK publisher Accent Press. A Street Cafe Named Desire was published in December 2014 and The Engagement Party in May 2015. My most recent novel is Jack and Jill Went Downhill.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Unlike my first two novels which were sparked by real life events, my most recent novel, Jack and Jill Went Downhill, started with the nursery rhyme. I wanted to turn it into an adult romantic tale, with the two main protagonists, Jack and Jill, meeting on the first page of the novel and without realising it, following the plot of the nursery rhyme.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t over plot. At the outset I know how the book will end and some key middle bits, but then I let the characters develop and at times, lead me in directions I hadn’t anticipated. That makes for an exciting journey. It necessitates a lot of editing, but I actually (and perhaps unusually) enjoy that part of the writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read loads of different genres. I love Kate Atkinson, Sarah Waters and Tracy Chevalier. I suppose my own writing is quite close to that of David Nicholls.
What are you working on now?
I’ve finished and up to editing a novel about a man who thinks he’s a hopeless case when in fact he’s anything but. I’m working on a story of a husband and wife who are competing for who can have the most embarrassing mid-life crisis. The woman was winning, but the man is catching up!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
It’s an endless struggle, even with a publisher. I do have my doubts about twitter.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Enjoy what you write and see the sales as a bonus. If you complete a novel you can be hugely proud.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Go with the flow, don’t over plan.
What are you reading now?
My Husband’s Wife, Amanda Prowse
What’s next for you as a writer?
Release my fourth novel early 2017, finish my fifth novel for late 2017 release. Very excited to be talking to a scriptwriter about The Engagement Party for film.
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?
The Magus, John Fowles
Fingersmith, Sarah Waters
Falling Angels, Tracy Chevalier
Author Websites and Profiles
R J Gould Website
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