This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
Jessie Keane's latest book, Ruthless, is out now and will be reviewed here soon. Jessie recently answered a few questions for us. Here’s what she had to say…
A bit about my writing day…
I write in the mornings – sometimes from as early as 6am – and then edit in the afternoons, and think about what I’ll be doing with the story next day.
Do I use celebs or people I know as inspiration?
I suppose everything a writer sees and does in his/her lifetime is inspiration of some sort. Certain character traits or physical features of people I see may sneak into a book now and again. It’s no secret that when I first thought of Annie Carter, I wanted her to look just like Alison King (who plays factory boss Carla in Coronation Street).
My favourite women’s fiction book of all time?
It has to be Polo by Jilly Cooper. It’s such an enjoyable, engrossing and HUGE book, but its size doesn’t slow it down in the least. The pace and tension is terrific, the sex scenes are awesome, and the characters are just so finely drawn.
My writing process…
I never plan. At the beginning of a book I may have certain characters in mind, but that’s all. I usually have an idea of where I want to start from, and where I want to end up … but in between that? No idea.
I can do up to 4 or 5 drafts before I’m happy with it – and don’t forget, then it’s edited, proof-read etc – so that bare 1st draft has a long way to go…
My journey to being a published author..
I tried writing romantic fiction for a long time, then comedy crime … and then I stumbled into straight crime, and that’s where I’m happiest.
The biggest myth about being a novelist..
That it gets easier the more books you write. I’m working on my 10th novel now, and I have to tell you, it gets harder, not easier, because at first, when you start writing, you are in blissful ignorance – by the 10th book, you know what’s expected of you, and you definitely feel the pressure…but I think that’s a good thing. Keeps you on your toes.
Advice to would-be writers
Write what you enjoy. If it suits your ‘voice’ it will feel easier than anything else you’ve tried to write before. Keep practising, and don’t be disheartened by rejection slips or the comments you may get from your family. Five years ago my partner asked me when I was going to get a proper job – he really did!
What I’m working on at the moment
I’m working on a sequel to NAMELESS starring Ruby Darke and her twins Daisy and Kit. This one is called LAWLESS and the people in it are pretty lawless too. It’s going to be a thumping big read covering London and Naples and the lives of two clashing gangs. Am currently having a blast – when it’s not tormenting me to death.
Thanks, Jessie!