An Interview Wit Ross Kitchen Author

Can you explain your writing process? Do you prefer to create an outline and plan beforehand, or do you prefer to write more spontaneously and organically?

I write spontaneously from the start of the book. The idea behind the book is usually only a sentence or two, outlining the main plot, e.g. A bank robbery.

What have you found to be most challenging about writing in [genre]?

Mist challenging has been writing descriptions as l am mind blind as l saw it described in another book. I can't see or create images in my mind.

Have you been able to incorporate your previous experience in [jobs/education] in your writing?

I try to include everything from my past into one story or another. Several incidents from school appear in one series.

Do you identify with your main character or did you create a character that is your opposite?

I don't identify with any of my characters. I have however tried to add some of my characteristics to individual characters.

Would you like readers to have any specific takeaway from your book?

Hopefully they will pick up little things but mostly l just want them to enjoy reading the book

As an author, what critique has been the most challenging for you to receive? On the other hand, what compliment has been the most rewarding?

The heaviest critique was about my first story, which listed it's style as simple.My style has improved significantly by rewriting that first book.

The most rewarding thing has been getting three books listed on Waterstones

To date, what is your favorite (or most difficult) chapter you have ever written?

My most favourite chapter has to be the chat about the last major elf, dwarf battle. I enjoyed writing that.

The most difficult one, not sure any stand out. Writing descriptions is hard work though.

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? How did you deal with it?

Yes, several times. I usually turn to Reading.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

Read, watch tv, walk.

Was there anything you had to research for the book?

Lots of things, from the average distance a horse can cover to the parts of a sailing ship.

What can we anticipate from you moving forward?

I am looking to publish at least six books this year, possibly more. I am also branching out into publishing.

Did you always want to be an author? If not, what did you want to be when you grew up?

No. Writing is a recent thing. As a child l wanted to be a scientist.

How long did it take you to write this book?

Hellena, A Were-wolf's Tale took about six months to write. At the moment l am writing around a thousand words a day and have four books on the go.

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind of music do you like to listen to?

Sometimes, usually l just have my phone on random play. Genres l like include rock, folk and pop punk.

What other hobbies do you have outside of writing?

I like photography and genealogy. Once a week l also take part in Italian, Renneisance Fencing, my favourite is sword and buckler, the earliest style.

Do you have any personal connection to the story or characters?

Not really, my characters are all based in fantasy worlds. The only connection is that l have written several directly for my daughters.