Ask the Author: Jen Flanagan
Answered Questions (5)
Jen Flanagan
Go for a drive or a walk and let my mind wander. Typically, it's because I need to think my way out of or into a situation. I can think through every scenario and clear my mind a bit. Eventually, I have the answer and I can keep writing.
Jen Flanagan
Great question! Sometimes I get inspiration from people I know, but they undergo overhauls to fit the style and need of the book. Other times, they are just created by the story and developed for voice and interest.
Jen Flanagan
A lot of my inspiration comes from dreams. I've had several adventurous dreams that were detailed enough to build a book outline from. I also am thinking up plot lines and writing juicy scenes all the time, from everyday inspiration and imagination.
I have several Google docs filled with outlines or story ideas.
I have several Google docs filled with outlines or story ideas.
Jen Flanagan
Just power through. Keep writing. You can go back and edit it later, fixing weak sections or removing things that don't work. The hardest part is just finishing the first copy. Doesn't have to be great.
Jen Flanagan
On a trip to Chicago, I realized it would be a perfect place for a mystery. I loved the brick backdrop and coffee shops. I used real locations in the Chicago suburbs to create feisy Mal.
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