Our Writer Of The Week is Suzanne Puntis, whose story, “All At Sea”, is in the July 27 issue, on sale this week.
Your story makes for a page-turning read. What is it about the thriller genre that appeals to you?
I think a good thriller story should be told well, tie together most of the details within the plot, but at the same time have an unexpected twist at the end.
Do you take inspiration from your surrounding when you write – whether home or abroad?
I take inspiration from observing people and soaking in both my environment and whatever activity I am engaged in. I used to go sailing a lot, so this inspired this particular story.
In your mind, what makes a good story stand the test of time?
A story should be original, relevant over time, thought provoking and memorable.
What are your writing plans for the future – short stories or otherwise?
“All At Sea” is the first short story I have written. I was a Primary teacher and so I have written a couple of children’s books. My chapter book for young readers, tells an imaginative story, which draws on personal experience, has interactive pages and is amusing to read.
The other is a rhyming picture book about an imaginary creature. Both are unpublished. I have written a couple of other short stories, since this submission.
Notebook and pencil or laptop? Kitchen table or study? Blank wall or inspiring view?
I compose on a blank sheet on my laptop, sitting in the lounge and I then keep returning to the story, adding in details and editing until I have the best version I can write. Blank walls can help you to re-visualise scenes and take a plot in an unplanned direction.
What’s your one top tip for aspiring writers?
Write about things you are familiar with or have researched well. This will ensure that your story is both realistic and plausible.
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”.
