Ask the Author: Matt Hilton
Answered Questions (6)
Matt Hilton
For Blood Tracks, I wanted to switch gears and write something different (but similar) to my usual Joe Hunter out put. But I also wanted to challenge some perceptions of me as a writer, so decided to move away from the usual tough guy thrillers I'm best known for and feature a female lead. I wanted Tess Grey to be totally different from Hunter, so gave her a whole heap of personal baggage to carry around that would shape her as a character. next, I am fascinated by the bayou country of Louisiana, and also the gothic terrain of New England, so I had the ready made locations for my novel in mind. I just had to come up with a scenario that could send Tess off to both in one adventure. Hopefully I achieved that.
Matt Hilton
Quite simply I love the process. Even if I wasn't contracted to write, I'd still do it simply for enjoyment. For particular inspiration though, I read a lot, and also watch movies or TV series I enjoy and mull around a few ideas that pop up. I then visualise scenes in my mind, and then hit the keyboard and try to translate them into prose. Usually a visual prompt gets me moving in the correct direction.
Matt Hilton
I'm currently working on two new projects. One is the next in my Tess Grey and Po Villere series (Blood tracks, Painted Skins) and also on a stand alone race against time type thriller. Both are in the very early stages and as soon as one takes precedence in my mind, I'll probably work solely on it until I get down the first draft.
Matt Hilton
Hoping not to sound flippant, my best advice is to read a lot and write a lot. It's the only sure fire way to learn your craft. Keep putting words on paper, and refine your writing until you find your unique voice. Above all, enjoy the process. If it feels like hard work, maybe it's not for you.
Matt Hilton
The best thing about being a writer for me is being allowed to do something I love, and even better yet, sometimes getting paid for it. I've held down a number of mentally trying, physical and dangerous jobs in my time (security, police officer, bouncer, tree feller among others), and to sit quietly at my computer typing away to my heart's content was always my dream job. Now I'm doing just that I'm in heaven.
Matt Hilton
Whenever I find myself blocked on one idea, I shift focus to another. Often - if for instance I'm working on one of my thriller novels - I'll switch genres all together and perhaps write a short horror story or humorous crime story. By writing something completely different it allows me to get creative again. When I go back to the original story I've usually subliminally worked out where I'm going next, so can then forge on.
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