Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve spent most of my 20s and 30s travelling and working various jobs and people watching. There’s nothing like finding a good spot with a coffee and watching the world go by. Having written previously for online travel websites, food reviews, and some sports analysis I have just published my first novel ‘Bangkok Delusions’ in 2019. I hope to have a follow up book, or 2 out by the end of 2019.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
‘Bangkok Delusions’ – was inspired by spending years living in Bangkok and forever being amazed at what goes on there. You can learn a lot by buying a beer and just watching what goes on. I hope that Bangkok Delusions will start to scratch below the superficial and my follow up novels will explore some topics deeper, as well as keeping plenty of humour and escapism in!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Well, I write everything by hand in nice large notebooks. I think most authors use computers these days. I find I flow much more if I can scrawl on a page, sometime theatrically. The problems arise when I think have to read back and type up, I often can’t read my own handwriting. It also serves as an immediate 2nd draft though, which helps.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Too many to really mention. When I was younger I loved Thomas Hardy – The Mayor of Casterbridge was one of the first books that I really was amazed by. Hardy’s themes are still valid and still controversial today.
I also love Paul Auster, Elmore Leonard, Carl Hiaasen’s books are hilarious and I think Bangkok has as much bizarre zaniness as Florida!
Yukio Mishima wrote some wonderful books (The Sailor who Fell From Grace with the Sea is my favourite), and lived an interesting life.
In the crime genre Arnaldour Indridasson is another favourite, with his Icelandic Noir, and John Grisham/ Harlen Coben types are great for holiday reads.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on a follow up to Bangkok Delusions – focusing on one of the lead characters on a path to redemption. It will include some more bizarre characters but be a bit more on the humourous side than gritty urban reality!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
As a relatively new author – I have a lot to learn still!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just go for it, if you enjoy writing, write. I started writing a novel as a hobby and I love sitting down and letting the pen flow. So keep writing about things you are interested in and enjoy.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
A great friend once said “No-one ever said on their death bed I wish I’d worked more” (in the context of a traditional 9 to 5 job that is!)
What are you reading now?
I am churning my way through John Grisham’s latest – The Rooster Bar. Not read a Grisham for a while and I’m having a week at the beach so it’s perfect!
What’s next for you as a writer?
My follow up novel will also be the start of a series which I hope will entertain.
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?
To Kill a Mockingbird – one of those rare books I enjoyed reading at school!
Rum Punch by Elmore Leonard it’s gritty but also feel good.
The Guinness Book of World Records – plenty of entertainment and as a kid I was obsessed with looking for oddities!
A thick anthology of William Trevor’s short stories.
Author Websites and Profiles
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