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