Monthly Archives: October 2025

Interview with a Writer ~ Fiona Lindsay

Posted on by vgemmell

This week I’m delighted to welcome writer Fiona Lindsay to my blog. I think I first met Fiona when she came along to the book launch for my debut, (when Fiona was part of the Romantic Novelists’ Association at the same time as my Mum). That’s the nice part of being a writer and creative – when you become part of a ‘community’ of people who know one another. Case in point, Fiona collaborates with my friend, Rebecca aka Dainty Dora, for her lovely book covers (see above), for her Kirklochy series, and I also collaborate with Rebecca for some of my book covers.

Fiona’s feel-good Kirklochy series is set in a fictional village in Scotland, with an interlinking cast of lovable characters, with each book threaded with emotion, uplifting romance and humour. Read on to find out more about Fiona and her writing life. Links to buy Fiona’s books are at the bottom of the post.

Author biography

Fiona Lindsay grew up in a house full of books, has always loved reading and studied English literature at university, during which time she decided to start writing stories herself. As well as being a writer and seasoned performer, Fiona is an artist and collaborates on the design of her book covers. Fiona has also  published books for other writers.

When did you first start writing?

While at university. I loved books and had enjoyed some so much that I felt inspired to begin writing stories of my own.

What do you write?

I’ve written a series of four romantic comedies and a couple of plays, but I also write shorter stories and observational pieces.

What was your first published piece of work?

A short story called Nothing Special, in an anthology put together by Johnstone Writers’ Group.

Why do you write?

For self-expression, enjoyment and the communication of ideas. I hope to let readers into the world and the characters I’ve created and be entertained by them. Life is random and writing helps to give it some kind of shape.

What, or who, has helped you on your writing journey?

I’ve had a great deal of support and constructive feedback from Caro Ramsay and the other members of Johnstone writers’ group, and also via writing retreats led by authors Alison May and Janet Gover, but many other people have helped me over the years with insightful comments. Local writer, Tracy Patrick, skilfully edited my second novel, while other friends have done sterling work as beta readers. I’m also a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association’s New Writers’ Scheme and have benefited from it’s critiques.

Also, the “instant feedback” received while performing is very heartening, as you can see at once if a piece of writing has landed. I appreciate the support of local writers Kathryn Metcalf and Gwen McKerrell for encouraging me to get involved.

Share a writing low with us. What did you learn from this?

I met with an agent who said that she loved my work, and would genuinely love to see more of it. I sent the book off to her, and never heard from her again (I understand that this happens to people often). But maybe it can be seen in a positive light also – that a big London agent rated me as a writer, although she didn’t follow through in the end. I learned to be resilient and I published the book – A New Flame – myself despite the disappointment.  

Share a writing high?

I wrote a short comedy play which was a spin-off from one of my novels, and it was selected by a group called Script to Stage to be performed by actors. It was great fun to see my characters brought to life, and also went down well with the audience. Otherwise, whenever someone tells me they, or someone they know, have enjoyed one of my books.

Share some of your favourite lines from reviews, or comments you have received about your work, which boosted your confidence (tell us what piece of work it relates to):

A New Flame:

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this delightful tale of many, very likeable characters. I particularly liked the aspects that highlighted the fact that not all break-ups of relationships are completely clear-cut. The happiest people are those who work through problems of unresolved issues before moving on properly takes place. Love comes in many forms and there are a number of types of love in this lovely read.

The Tide is High:

This is another wonderful story in the Kirklochy series. There are new, young, characters as well as a few familiar ones. Topics of love and grief are sensitively handled as is the transition from teenager to young adult. I read it in 24 hours as I couldn’t put it down!

Any tips for new writers?

Read widely and critically for inspiration and to learn the craft – don’t let the words wash over you. Join a writers’ group for support from other writers who can share their experience and offer constructive feedback.

And for all writers; any tips for keeping motivated? And how do you find time to write?

I think we need to acknowledge that writing is difficult and completing a novel is a lengthy job – so it will be very hard to sustain at times, but know that this is everyone’s experience and we can do it if we persevere. I’d suggest, if stuck and struggling to move forward, if you have a high-octane scene in mind for later in the book, jump ahead and write it and hopefully bring some excitement back. Also, reading an author you admire can be inspiring. Switching off and going for a walk or a swim is also helpful, as both make you think more constructively.  

Do you have a regular writing routine, or do you write in frantic bursts?

I don’t have a regular routine, but write whenever I have some free time to focus on it.

Where do you write? (A dedicated space, or on-the-go)

I live in the middle of a university campus, so I often write in the library, or else at the table in my cosy kitchen.

Any stand-out books you have read recently?

Julia, by Sandra Newman. It’s a retelling of George Orwell’s 1984, but from the point of view of Julia, Winston Smith’s lover.

Where can we find out more about you, and your books?

Links to buy Fiona’s books: (click on the title)

The Consolation Prize

Do Not Disturb

A New Flame

The Tide is High

Find Fiona on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tartanrouge

Interview with a Writer ~ E.S. David

Posted on by vgemmell

This week I’m delighted to welcome another Scottish based YA author, E.S. David, who writes Young Adult fantasy. His debut Trials of Aqouril will be released next month, (the first in an adventure fantasy series), and sounds very intriguing. Read on to find out more about E.S. David’s book and writing life.

Good luck with the release!

Author Bio

E.S. David is a Scottish author of young adult fantasy, inspired by his country’s ancient fables and stories. He likes to capture the reader’s attention with complex and relatable characters and throw them into unpredictable environments to see how they cope. Outside of reading/writing, E.S. David loves watching a good film or tv series and drinking far too much tea.

When did you first start writing?

Shortly after I finished university. I used to travel down to London on the train to visit friends and family and would work on my writing during those long journeys. Over the pandemic, I spent more time working on my debut novel and trying to develop my style of writing.

What do you write?

I mostly write YA fantasy. I love thinking about sweeping lands, magical elements and morally complex characters and mixing them all together to create a story. I am currently working on an adventure fantasy series with the first book due to be published at the end of November 2025.

What was your first published piece of work? (or about to be published work)

That will be “The Trials of Aqouril”, which will be published in November this year. It’s about a teenage girl – Erica Brooks – who ends up being transported to an enthralling world called Aqouril where she discovers she has elemental powers. In order to find out why she has been brought here, she has to undergo a series of trials to learn the truth about Aqouril and how it links to her past.

Why do you write?

I write because I wanted to challenge myself to come up with something imaginative, exciting and above all, original. I see the challenge of writing a book being a bit like completing a jigsaw puzzle. Except the jigsaw pieces are blank and only show the full picture once it’s been completed! Writing encourages you to be innovative, take risks and see where your story and characters take you and that’s what I love about it.

What, or who, has helped you on your writing journey?

My family, friends and girlfriend have all been very supportive of my writing and are all excited for the debut of my first novel. I also take a lot of inspiration from stories in history to help me come up with ideas for future events in my stories.

Share a writing low with us. What did you learn from this?

The biggest low – which I’m sure is common for a lot of writers – is being rejected by agents/publishers. It’s like being turned down for a job when you’ve put so much time and effort into researching and rehearsing what you’re going to say. To be a writer, you have to be persistent and willing to take onboard constructive criticism about your writing. On the other hand, you also need to back yourself and your ideas as you might just need to find the right publisher/agent for you.

Share a writing high?

The biggest high was getting my contract through for my first novel to be published. In a month or so, I’m sure that will be replaced by my first ever publication day. However, the initial thrill of finally getting the publication of my first book underway has been a dream of mine for years and I’m very grateful that The Book Guild have given me the opportunity to share my story.

Any tips for new writers?

I feel like a new writer myself so I’m probably not the best person for advice! My biggest tip though would be to never give up on your ideas. They might not be for everyone and you might need to reflect on any critiques you are given, but if you are open to developing your writing, you give yourself a much better chance of achieving your goals.

Do you have a regular writing routine, or do you write in frantic bursts?

I try and dedicate at least one evening a week to doing some writing, whether that’s editing a chapter I’ve written or working on a new one. It can be difficult with work and other commitments, but it’s important to find time to get into your writing space and chip away at it.

Where do you write? (A dedicated space, or on-the-go)

I have a desk in my flat that I tend to write at. I also have a playlist of films scores and other music I find moving to get myself into the right mindset.

Any stand-out books you have read recently?

I’m just back from holiday where I got to read Pet Semetary for the first time. It’s my first Stephen King read as well! I thoroughly enjoyed it, even if it did give me chills!

Where can we find your book, and find out more about you?

Links to book: https://bookguild.co.uk/bookshop/young-adult/the-trials-of-aqouril

https://guardianbookshop.com/the-trials-of-aqouril-9781835743270/

https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-trials-of-aqouril/e-s-david//9781835743270

Find E.S. David on Instagram, X and Threads: @esdavidauthor

Interview with a Writer ~ Denise Brown

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This week I’m delighted to welcome writer Denise Brown to my blog. Denise writes Young Adult mystery thrillers and when I read her debut I am Winter a few years ago, (now re-released as We Know What You Did), it stood out to me as it was so raw and real, with well drawn and believable characters. I always get excited when I come across other YA mystery writers who base themselves in Scotland, and loved finding out more about Denise’s writing journey, and tips! (Note to self: keep my phone off when I’m writing). It’s reassuring to discover I’m not the only one who doesn’t always follow a structured plan. Read on to gain an insight into Denise’s writing world…

Denise Brown is a freelance ghostwriter, proofreader, and copy editor, who still pinches herself some mornings that she gets to sit at her desk and write stories for a living. She often wishes that she could go back and tell her eight-year-old self that it’s okay to daydream because that’s where the magic happens.

Born in East London, Denise has now settled in Scotland where she feels certain she must’ve lived in a previous life. She loves dogs and snow globes and has a teensy obsession with Jack Skellington.

Her debut YA murder mystery I Am Winter was published by Hashtag Press in 2021, relaunched in November 2024 as We Know What You Did. Her second novel, It All Started with a Lie, followed in February 2024. Her third murder mystery No One Keeps a Secret was published in August 2025.

When did you first start writing?

I always loved books. I suffered from chronic shyness as a child – still do to be honest – and books were my escape from having to interact with people. It was the same with writing stories. But when I left school, writing wasn’t an acceptable career choice for a teenager from East London, so life took over, as it does. I got married, had babies, and repeated the process a second time. So, it wasn’t until later in life, when my children were growing up that I realised it was finally time to focus on me. I began studying for an English literature degree with the OU, took an advanced creative writing course, and have been writing ever since.

What do you write?

Personally, I write mystery thrillers for young adults, although I’m also working on a middle grade book too right now. As a ghost writer – I’ve been writing full-time since the pandemic – I mostly write niche romance and some omegaverse.

What was your first published piece of work?

It was a gritty YA novella called The Devil on Your Back, published by Salt. This was fresh out of my creative writing course and was a huge ego boost!

Why do you write?

Because writing is now like breathing. I can’t imagine a world without books or writing. I’ve been writing every day for the last twelve years, and stopping now would be like giving up food or air or my dog!

What, or who, has helped you on your writing journey?

My children have always been extremely supportive. They believed in me even when I had no belief in myself. Impostor syndrome is still there, but I think I’ve learned to deal with it more effectively these days. But I think the real turning point for me was being longlisted for the Bath Novel Award. It was the justification I needed to carry on despite the rejections because someone liked my writing and believed that my story was worth reading.

Share a writing low with us. What did you learn from this?

My first book I am Winter was noticed by a couple of people. A literary agent requested the full manuscript but decided not to proceed because she felt that it was too young adult for her list. Then I signed a contract with a relatively new publishing company, only to find a few months later that the book was too mature for their list.

What I learned from this is that a book will be discovered by the right person at the right time, and no amount of querying will ever alter this. If it isn’t a right fit for both author and publisher, then it is time to walk away and try again.

Share a writing high?

Well, the first one has to be the day I received an email from Helen and Abiola of Hashtag Press, telling me that they wanted to publish my first book I am Winter. Without them, and their relentless passion for their authors, I wouldn’t be sitting here now talking to you.

But I’d like to share another one with you also. In December 2023, I attended an Indie Book Launch with lots of other indie authors at Foyle’s Charing Cross to promote my second book It All Started with a Lie. While I was there, a reader came over and told me that she’d come specifically to meet me because she loved my first book so much. It was the best feeling, knowing that someone had read my book and enjoyed it that much!

Share some of your favourite lines from reviews, or comments you have received about your work, which boosted your confidence (tell us what piece of work it relates to)

A reader wrote this about my first book I am Winter, and it literally brought tears to my eyes because it was more than I could’ve ever hoped for when I first started writing:

“This YA novel has my heart, and Summer all my love.” (Summer is the main character)

But this (below) has to be one of my favourite quotes for It All Started with a Lie, simply because it’s honest and straight to the point, and it made me laugh:

“Every character was likeable, except the murderer. And Jed. F**k Jed. But everyone served a point (even Jed).”

Any tips for new writers?

Write every day, even if it’s a hundred words. No writing is ever wasted. And read for pleasure every day too. Because while you’re reading, your brain is subconsciously absorbing what works and what doesn’t.

And for all writers; any tips for keeping motivated? And how do you find time to write?

I write full-time, so the second question doesn’t really apply. But what works for me to keep me motivated is to never have a fixed outline to follow. I realise that this won’t work for everyone, but I find that I get easily bored if I don’t allow the characters to do their own thing within a loose storyline. Also, switch off your phone! My phone is always on silent. Which annoys my daughters when they’re trying to get hold of me while I’m working.

Do you have a regular writing routine, or do you write in frantic bursts?

I follow the Pomodoro Technique of writing in twenty-five-minute bursts and then taking a break from my laptop for five minutes to make a cup of tea, or do some hoovering, or cuddle the dog!

Where do you write? (A dedicated space, or on-the-go)

At my desk. Since my daughter recently moved out, I now have an entire room dedicated to my workspace, with views of the woods in the distance which is lovely. Unfortunately, I’m not one of those people who can write anywhere. I’ve tried writing on train journeys, but I suffer with motion sickness, so it simply doesn’t work for me, and cafés are too distracting.

Any stand-out books you have read recently?

The Mermaid of Black Conch by Monique Roffey. It’s a retelling of The Little Mermaid, and is so charming, and so beautifully written that I didn’t want it to end.

Other books that I absolutely adore are:

Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma (quite possibly my favourite book ever)

We Were Liars (of course!) by E. Lockhart

And more recently:

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

Happyhead by Josh Silver

Where can we find your books, and find out more about you?

Denise’s books can be bought in Waterstones, WH Smiths (now TG Jones) and on Amazon

Author website: About | Denise Brown Author

Instagram: Denise Brown Author (@denisebrownuk)

Interview with a Writer~Yasmin Hanif

Posted on by vgemmell

Today I’m really excited to welcome my friend and writer, Yasmin Hanif, onto my blog. I first met Yasmin at an informal Writers’ meet up group, where we do writing sprints and chat about our projects, and the ups and downs of the writing life in general! (and drink nice tea and eat snacks). Yasmin has been so encouraging about my own books and writing; a real cheerleader for other writers, and this has helped me stay motivated (more than she probably realises!). I was so delighted when Yasmin told me her amazing news that Floris were going to publish her debut picture book, Abdullah’s Bear Needs A Name! and even more delighted to attend her launch at Waterstones the other week (thank you Yasmin’s Mum for the very tasty Samosas and Pakoras, and to Floris for the cake!). It’s a beautiful book and I wish Yasmin lots of success with her writing career. Read on to find out more about Yasmin’s writing journey, with links to buy her book at the bottom of the post.

Yasmin is a Scottish writer and educator, specialising in children’s literature. She was shortlisted for the Kavya Arts Prize in 2023 for her story which became her debut picture book, Abdullah’s Bear Needs A Name! (Floris, 2025). She has contributed to various poems in anthologies including ‘Daisy’s Mum’ in Stay At Home (Cranachan Publishing, 2020). She was a writer in residence at a primary school and worked on their project to promote diversity and inclusion within children’s writing and publishing, which won the SAMEE Aspiring Writers Award and the Scottish Education Curriculum Innovation Award 2022. 

When did you first start writing?

I don’t remember exactly when I first started writing but I remember that I started storytelling from a young age. My sisters and I would make up stories and act out the characters that we had created when we were little. I think that started my love for stories and writing.

What do you write?

I write all genres of children’s writing from picture books, poetry, middle grade to young adult. I also delve into short stories and poetry for adults too.

What was your first published piece of work?

I think my first written, fictional piece of work was a poem called ‘Daisy’s Mum’ in the Stay at Home anthology by Cranachan Publishing. This was a collection of specially curated poems and stories by 40 writers based in Scotland to help children aged 8-12 deal with the lockdown during the pandemic.

Why do you write?

There are so many reasons why I write from seeing the joy on people – especially kids’ faces – to the connection it brings between people, ideas, and experiences. I love the sense of humanity it brings out – the connectivity through emotions. I also love engaging with people when writing is performed whether that’s through readings or the discussions it brings about.

On a broader stroke, I think writing and bringing literature to as many people as possible is important for education and improving literacy levels; particularly making children more critical thinkers, and for them to be empowered for their future. Finally, I also enjoy creating something from scratch and I hope that my words have a positive impact on those reading them.

What, or who, has helped you on your writing journey?

So many people and things from writing communities to courses. However, I think the biggest thing that has helped me is finding like-minded people who also write in your chosen genre. They have been very supportive and it’s useful and encouraging to speak to different people at different stages of their writing career. I also worked with a local primary school in the West of Scotland when I started out as a writer. The experience I gained from that was also invaluable.

Share a writing low with us. What did you learn from this?

I had been subbing out my stories for a while and at that time I had also become unemployed from my main (non-writing) job. I kept getting rejection after rejection and it really felt like I was going nowhere. I was just about to give up when I got an email from a publisher saying they loved my book and were taking it to an acquisitions meeting. I really needed that. I learned that hard times can last a long, long time but the most important thing is that they don’t last. So never give up or at least keep going.

Share a writing high?

I recently had my debut book launch at Waterstones, and it was a real dream come true for me. I had friends and family there and did a Q&A and reading from the book. It was a surreal moment being on that stage answering questions and engaging with the audience. There was also homemade food which was themed with the Eid feast in the book and a bookish cake with good chatter. I was on a high from it for about 2 and half days after it!

Share some of your favourite lines from reviews, or comments you have received about your work, which boosted your confidence (tell us what piece of work it relates to)

As I mentioned, I recently had my debut picture book, Abdullah’s Bear Needs A Name! published (illustrated by the very talented Sophie Benmouyal) and received a wonderful review by Kids’ Literature Scotland:

“A beautiful and necessary book. It is wonderful when Scottish children from all cultural backgrounds see themselves reflected in stories…This gorgeous picture book is an encouraging step on that journey.”   

Any tips for new writers?

I would say keep writing, learning, experimenting in your practice and meeting like-minded people. Soak it all up and enjoy the process – from that will come your creativity and possibly your best pieces.

And for all writers; any tips for keeping motivated? And how do you find time to write?

Motivation and finding the time to write can be two of the most challenging things. Through motivation you write, and conversely through writing you find motivation, so it goes hand in hand. As I mentioned about find likeminded people to write with, whether that’s informal creative writing groups, workshops, retreats – somewhere where others are writing too, which helps you stay motivated and accountable.

Do you have a regular writing routine, or do you write in frantic bursts?

I do write in frantic bursts! I always use the phrase, ‘I try to steal time if I can’ – what that means is finding little pockets of time whether that’s 5mins or 25mins!

Where do you write? (A dedicated space, or on-the-go)

I mostly write at home, but I find I do need to switch it up occasionally to keep inspired so I’ll write in my local library or with a friend in a public space like a university or café.

Any stand-out books you have read recently?

I like reading autobiographies and memoirs, and really enjoyed Matthew Perry’s memoir, Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing. I found it incredibly honest, raw and captivating.

For children’s literature, I’m currently reading The Highland Falcon Thief by M.G. Leonard and Sam Sedgman. I’ve only started reading it but so far so good!

Where can we find your book and find out more about you?

Links to buy Yasmin’s book here: Yasmin Hanif books and biography | Waterstones

Abdullah’s Bear Needs a Name! – DiscoverKelpies

You can follow Yasmin on Instagram:  @yhwrites