My first novel that went through my agent and publisher will have taken two years to come out this winter. I didn’t want to wait that long for this title to come out, I felt I could do a good job on my own so I went for it.
Paul McCracken – 6 May 2018
The Back Flap
Michael’s worst fears are realized when his criminal past catches up to him. His daughter is kidnapped by his old gang, who are intent on getting back what Michael owes to them. With the help of his estranged brother, Carl. They must find a way of coming up with the ransom within five days. Michael’s journey will take him the whole way from Belfast to Dublin.
About the book
When did you start writing the book?
I started writing the book in April 2017.
How long did it take you to write it?
From writing the first word to writing ‘The End’ took almost exactly a year.
Where did you get the idea from?
I got the inspiration from becoming a father. When I sat down and thought about what my next book would be about, I thought about what my greatest fear would be. My greatest fears changed when I became a father, the fears were no longer about myself but rather my daughter. I thought that it was a very relatable angle so I went with it.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
I struggled towards the end of the story because I had a lot of ends to tie up and I also pondered on what kind of ending did I want? Did I want the traditional happy ending, something bittersweet or something else entirely?
What came easily?
The characters came very easily to me. The first half of the story also came rushing out of me which I didn’t expect. I thought it would’ve taken a lot longer.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
There are some traits and qualities taken from real people I know as well as fictional characters from other books/movies.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Without a doubt, two that stand out are Richard Laymon and Dennis Lehane.
Do you have a target reader?
I believe that this book would gain interest from a wide range of people. I don’t specifically worry about that when writing. I write it how I want and how I feel it should be but I believe that the story and my writing style would engage a variety of readers.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
I have delved into a lot of different processes. With this book I wrote the first chapter and then I made side notes, almost like a small outline for what was to follow.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Yes. With this book, it was just small notes of key scenes to occur later in the story or a note to remind me of something in particular that I should return to touch on.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
Always wait until I am finished as I feel it breaks the flow when you’re on a roll. Plus, you always need to go back over numerous time again anyway. In my opinion, it saves time this way.
Did you hire a professional editor?
No. I didn’t have the money to cover the cost of one. I trusted my own eyes a lot before handing it off to beta readers, family and friends to pick at it.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Yes. I always try to find them two or three songs that act in my mind as the theme song of the story. With this book the two stand out songs were Sigma Ft. Birdy – Find me and Keaton Simons – When I go.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
At first yes. I submitted it to my own agent who represents me.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher?
After consideration, I asked for permission to self-publish this title on my own. My first novel that went through my agent and publisher will have taken two years to come out this winter. I didn’t want to wait that long for this title to come out, I felt I could do a good job on my own so I went for it.
Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
Particular event with my experience of my previous publishing contract.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
Professionally done by a personal friend who is an animator/graphic designer for a high-end firm in London.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
After consideration, I asked for permission to self-publish this title on my own. My first novel that went through my agent and publisher will have taken two years to come out this winter. I didn’t want to wait that long for this title to come out, I felt I could do a good job on my own so I went for it.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Do your homework, know what’s going to be involved. Build a following leading up to it and be relentless at promoting not just your book, but also yourself.
About You
Where did you grow up?
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Where do you live now?
Belfast, Northern Ireland.
What would you like readers to know about you?
I am a full-time factory worker and a family man who still uses every free minute chasing the dream of being a full-time writer. I’ve done all of this on my own, completely self taught and still bidding to be one of the best writers in the UK/Ireland in time.
What are you working on now?
A murder/mystery set in the rural landscape of Northern Ireland. I’ve always tried to stray from detective led stories as I think they just become regurgitated over time, playing the same scenario/story over and over. I couldn’t resist however and I am now writing my own in my own style, already I can honestly say that it will be my best work.
End of Interview: