Our Writer Of The Week is H. Johnson-Mack. You can read the concluding instalment of her serial, “Lovers’ Leap”, in the January 18 issue.
The dual timeline storylines work seamlessly together in “Lovers’ Leap”. Was it a challenge to write?
No, it was a joy! Sometimes, some stories just come together, don’t they, and “Lovers’ Leap” was one of them, luckily.
When writing dual timelines, do you have a preference to writing in the past or present?
It depends on the characters and their storylines. As a history lover, it’s always exciting to explore the past. But there’s also enjoyment in walking in a character’s shoes, sharing romance and adventure with them in the here and now.
What novel, past or present, would you liked to have written?
Oh, good question. There’s so many! But if I can cheat a bit, I’d love to have written “Jane Eyre” – a masterpiece of romantic intrigue and crossing society boundaries that stays with you. And this year my sister introduced me to Ruth Hogan’s “The Keeper Of Lost Things” through our book club. It’s an absolute treasure. It’s also changed the way I view little lost items you see on your travels.
You are a successful “Friend” writer of short stories, serials and pocket novels. If you were to pick a favourite format, which would it be and why?
Thank you, firstly. I am very grateful for that. It’s tricky to say, as all are so satisfying in their own way. At this stage in my writing, it’s probably edging toward the serials; the format gives you a wider scope to tell more in-depth stories. Plus, there’s nothing like the satisfaction you get when you meet the challenge of that cliffhanger and wordcount per part, and your editor says, “We’re happy with it.”
Do you go looking for story inspiration, or do you let the creative process unfold at its own pace?
Luckily for me (or unlucky, depending on your point of view), I am one of those writers who has too many ideas and not enough time. But I do have those little notebooks dotted around to catch any bits of inspiration whenever they pop into my world.
What’s your one top tip for aspiring serial writers?
Don’t be too proud to listen to your editors. It’s tough to get the balance of story and character development within each part right and leave readers ready for the next chapter. But the editorial feedback has helped me through a few tight tunnels.
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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”.
