Ask the Author: Shelly Betts
Answered Questions (6)
Shelly Betts
I don't suffer with writer's block that often. I just get something down even if it's not that good and that usually takes me to where I need to get to. I tend not to edit until I've written at least five chapters and that's only to edit grammar and spelling. Leave the big edit until the end allowing your thoughts and ideas to flow freely. I also leave my writing with the first line of the next chapter written so that I don't open up my laptop and have to decide what happens next. It's also a good idea to plot a chapter with a couple of ideas before you write it. You'll be surprised how those little acorns grow.
Shelly Betts
Being able to use my imagination and having complete control over the characters and the plot is fantastic. It's a great escape from real life too. For me personally, having a chronic illness means I can write when I want to and if I'm not well enough I can have time off. My writing gives me a purpose now that I'm unable to go out to work.
Shelly Betts
Believe in yourself. Find time to write if it's something you are passionate about. The housework will be here long after you've gone, unlike your books if you never find time to write them! Just a little each day is enough to spur you on and fire up ideas. Keep a note book with you at all times so if something springs to mind you can jot it down. This could be an overheard conversation, a smell or colour, an incident in the supermarket. They are all ideas for a story. Finally, don't worry if others mock you for writing. It's your life and your choice. Ignore them.
Shelly Betts
My second novel, as yet untitled, is total fiction. It is based on a burnt out rock musician (extremely handsome) who flees his life in America and returns to his childhood village in Worcestershire. He seeks solace in a bid to "find himself". He takes a job as a handyman/gardener and lives in a caravan. There are three women, all strong characters, whose lives he touches in different ways. It is story of friendship and love with some humour thrown in.
Shelly Betts
When I have an idea I just have a need to put it down on paper. I attend a writing group run by published author Sue Johnson (Fables Fortune) and this is where I find most of my inspiration and invent my characters. My short stories and flash fiction written during the group sessions have found their way into my next novel.
Shelly Betts
Write what you know...It is quite autobiographical with some fiction thrown in. It was easy to add the emotion as I have experienced most of the topics in this novel. I think depression is still a taboo subject and puts publishers off but this story deals with subject in a positive and uplifting way. I wanted to offer hope to those struggling with life/relationships without it being too heavy.
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