We chat to Writer Of The Week Georgia Hill, whose story “Under The Wisteria” appears in our latest Special.
Tell us about your story “Under The Wisteria”
It’s the story of a much-loved and well-established wisteria and how it’s almost become another member of the family.
How long have you been writing fiction?
I’ve been writing all my life and have been published since 2009. I write short stories, contemporary and dual narrative historical romances, and some really bad poetry (which will never see the light of day!).
Where do you get your inspiration from?
For this story, I didn’t have to go very far.
A few years ago, we moved into a house on the Devon coast which had a magnificent wisteria growing along the west wall.
From the thickness of its trunk we estimated it might well be as old as the house – over a hundred years. Unfortunately, we had to have it pruned hard, just as in the story.
Two little girls lived in the house before us and when we chopped into the tree, we found lots of shells and pebbles which they must have brought back from the beach.
We nicknamed it “The Magic Fairy Tree”, and thankfully it’s survived. So far!
For my novels, I take inspiration from the closely-knit community in the seaside town in which I live. I also love folktales and local history. My latest novel is all about the impact the GIs had on Devon and Dorset in the months leading up to D-Day.
What authors do you admire?
I’m an avid reader and always have been. I enjoy dual narrative and historical romance, social history and biography.
Big influences have been Daphne du Maurier, Barbara Erskine and Phil Rickman. I admire Jane Austen, Sebastian Faulks and Clare Chambers.
I like the quirky, I like learning something and I’m partial to a hint of spookiness!
What are your long-term writing plans?
I’ve a book out this spring and I’m currently writing a Christmas novel, which is a first for me.
After that, I have a book set in Roman Britain planned. Lots of research needed!
What advice would you give to new writers?
- Write as often and as regularly as you can and experiment.
- Read widely.
- Develop a network of trusted writer friends.
- Write then leave, then return to it and be your own sternest critic.
- Take a notebook with you everywhere!
Thank you, Georgia!
For more from our Writer Of The Week series, click the tag below.
Tracey Steel Having worked on a number of magazines over the years, I have found my perfect place on the “Friend” as I’m obsessed with reading and never go anywhere without a book! I read all of our stories with a mug of tea close by and usually a bit of strong cheese too!
