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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, author Edward Burley shares the inspiration behind his new book, Blame, and his creative writing process.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Edward Burley about his life and career, the story of his latest novel, Blame, and what inspired his characters.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
I am a married father of two living in the southwest and have been enthralled by books since childhood.
Having had a disastrous time at school, books and music were an escape. At 14 I picked up a guitar, and in 2017 the debut album by my band Fallen Child was released.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
The book came about through creative frustration. Lockdown prevented the pre-production of Fallen Childs second album.
When did you take a step to start writing?
I was sat at work daydreaming, thinking about a conversation I had had with my university friends as we watched tanks rolling into Iraq after the events of 9-11 and a name popped into my head. I quickly made a note of it.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
The whole process took around fourteen months. It took three months of emailing publishers until I received an offer.
Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write this book?
I was horrified at what transpired during Brexit. Just like the social stigmatism that surrounded the Iraq war after 9-11, social prejudices were being used for political gain. I felt this needed to change.
What were your biggest challenges with writing Blame?
The first draft of the book was approximately twenty-five thousand words. It then quickly grew to nearly three times that, as characters and situations were fleshed out and expanded on. I spent a great deal of time making sure that the added plotlines were brought to a satisfying conclusion.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
All the names used in the book are based on people that I have met. My main protagonist is Detective Colin Mills. Through him, I was able to critique the actions of the press but at the same time allow him to carry the social prejudice that significantly affects the plot as it unfolds, eventually leading to a wrongful arrest.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
As we have seen countless times, our scariest villains are often the ones who become anonymous in society. I needed someone who would be the last person anyone would suspect capable of blowing up half a city. Hence Joseph Darby, a sociology lecturer hiding in plain sight.
What is the inciting incident of Blame?
A bomb is detonated in a cinema. Unfortunately, this turns out to be the first of several. It transpires that one of our protagonists’ students drank himself to death, which led to Joseph writing a manifesto entitled ‘The Wasted Youth.’
What is the main conflict of Blame?
The conflict in the book arises from a decoy that is deliberately used by our protagonist. As a result, the police pursue a false line of enquiry, leading to an innocent man’s arrest and further incidents to occur.
Did you plot Blame in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
The main plotline was in place, but during the writing process it expanded exponentially. I had completely underestimated the reach that my protagonists’ actions would have.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Blame need?
According to my publisher, my manuscript needed very little editing. It is essential that you put as much effort into your final manuscript as you do the writing of the book.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
Do not concern yourself with spelling, punctuation and grammar when writing the story. These can be addressed later. It is more important to capture the story on the page initially, and stopping to address these issues can really upset the creative flow.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
My next book is written, and I hope to have it out in the autumn 2024. It is called Agency and involves a group of career criminals robbing a care home. I hope it can highlight the fantastic work that occurs in social care day in day out with very little acknowledgement.
And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
It has certainly been worth the effort. The feedback I have received has generally been very positive. To have it featured in Somerset Life magazine was a joy.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4daC5Yr
Facebook: Ed Burley
Instagram: @yelrubde
https://foreshorepublishing.com/product/blame
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