Writer Of The Week: Moira Gee

Our Writer Of The Week is Moira Gee, who has recently written a pocket novel, “No More Secrets”, for the “Friend”.

Tell us about your pocket novel, “No More Secrets”.

The idea probably stemmed from watching television dramas. Often, just at the end of a scene, there’s a glimpse of a person lurking suspiciously in a car or watching someone through a café window. I liked the idea of a mysterious character turning up out of the blue, watching a family from a distance. It developed from there. Who is she? What does she want? Does she mean to make trouble?

I’ve also noticed that problems sometimes arise through someone trying to help another person. Misunderstandings can develop so easily, half-truths are told and the whole situation can spiral downwards.

There are all sorts of feelings at play in this story. There’s the family’s grief and loss for a start. That becomes tangled with Marie’s feelings of inadequacy, Shaun’s empathy towards Grace’s situation and his inner battle with his ethics about the best advice to give her.

At the other end of the scale, the teenagers are excited to be looking to the future and considering which path to follow.

I followed all these different strands and built up a picture from there.

Background Pic: Shutterstock

How long have you been writing fiction?

I had my first story published in “The Sunday Post” back in 1976 when I was fifteen. It was called “Brotherly Love”. It was thrilling to see my name in print. I have to confess, I still feel just as excited whenever I have anything published.

What types of fiction do you most enjoy writing?

I’m quite a champion of short stories. When I tell people I write short stories, the most common reaction is for them to ask if I’ve ever written a book. It’s as if you’re not a “real” writer unless you’re a novelist. It’s very irritating.

I’m also a member of a local poetry group, which gives me a chance to try all sorts of styles. My most recent success was a live reading of a rap!

Whatever I’m working on, my main priority is trying to hone in on believable emotions.

Who are some of your favourite authors?

I love Maggie O’Farrell. When I browse through my bookcase, I find Nick Hornby, David Nicholls, Daphne du Maurier, Maeve Binchy, Fiona Gibson and Charles Dickens.

What are your future writing plans?

I’m planning to start a podcast where I can read my children’s stories. I’ll need help with the technology from my thirteen-year-old grandson, Fox.

What advice would you give someone who wants to write stories for the “Friend”?

First of all, do read the magazine and pay attention to the guidelines because the “Friend” really does have its own unique flavour. I’ve learned that I can always rely on the Fiction Team to be honest about what they do and don’t want.

Most importantly, write from the heart.

Thanks for finishing with a great piece of advice, Moira!

For exclusive and original fiction content, pick up a copy of “The People’s Friend” magazine every Wednesday, or take out a money-saving subscription. Pockets novels are also available on subscription.