Thursday’s Writer Of The Day is Leah Rottier’s. Leah’s story, “Life In Paris”, appears in our 155 Anniversary issue, on sale now.
Was Paris an easy choice for the location of the story, or does such a romantic city come with its own high expectations?
I live in France, so I often write stories based in towns and cities here. Obviously, Paris is a great setting with its beautiful landmarks and its reputation as the city of love, but I also write about charming French villages and towns, too.
There’s great scope for feel-good writing as romance is everywhere – whether it’s an elderly couple strolling hand in hand through a busy market or a younger couple stealing a kiss in a quiet bistro.
As a writer, is it important to highlight your characters’ looks and traits, or do you think it’s good to leave some things to the reader’s imagination?
In short stories, I tend to focus on the personalities of my main characters. I find that readers can identify with them easily if they know their traits and quirks, and it allows them to use their imagination to decide on the characters’ looks.
Longer stories and serials give me the chance to fully develop my characters and include much more descriptive writing.
January is the month for New Year Resolutions – do you have any relating to writing?
Yes, although I’m never good at keeping them, unfortunately. My husband’s a chef and he’s working on his first cookbook, so I’ve promised him that I’ll translate his recipes into English and help him put his book together. That’s my writing resolution for 2024. I just need more hours in the day!
What was the last book you read, and did you enjoy it?
I’ve just finished reading Richard Osman’s latest book, “The Last Devil To Die”, and I really enjoyed it. I’m a huge fan of his “Thursday Murder Club” books and I can lose myself in them for hours at a time. I love his humour and his characters, especially Elizabeth, who reminds me of my funny and fearless grandma.
I’m now counting down the days until the next book in the series is released.
Notebook and pencil or laptop? Kitchen table or study? Blank wall or inspiring view?
Definitely a notebook and pen for ideas and drafts, before sitting at the computer in my little home office to type and edit stories. I wouldn’t say my view is inspiring at all – my window overlooks a small car park – but we live in the countryside, so I’ll often take my dog out for a long walk to put my thoughts in order and be inspired by prettier scenery.
What’s your one top tip for aspiring writers?
That’s a good question, as I’m still picking up tips and learning all the time. I’d say always have something to write on wherever you are, or even use your phone to make notes. Inspiration can strike at any time, not just when you’re sitting in front of your computer.
Once, I had an idea for a story whilst in a restaurant and I had to borrow a pen to jot down my idea on a paper napkin, in case I forgot it before we went home. All was well, until my husband decided to use the napkin to mop up his spilt drink!
Alan Spink I am a member of the “Friend” Fiction Team. I enjoy working closely with writers and being part of the creative process, which sees storytelling ideas come to fruition. A keen reader, I also write fiction and enjoy watching football and movies in my spare time. My one tip to new writers is “write from your imagination”.
