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On The Table Read, “the best book magazine in the UK“, author Greg Hulme talks about the first book in his new dystopian YA book series, Magnus Powell And The Shadow Squad.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Greg Hulme about his life and career, what inspires his writing, and the story of Magnus Powell And The Shadow Squad.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
My name’s Greg. The first thing you should know about me is that I’m a big tea drinker and am known for being grouchy before my first cup in the morning. Once I’ve consumed my first cup I like to participate in anything that involves creative storytelling, be it composing music, acting or book writing.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
Surprisingly, the inspiration to write a book was never on my radar until a couple of years ago. I was always more fascinated by the medium of music and film. However when COVID 19 hit and the world was thrust into lockdown I needed a new challenge to keep my mind busy through the isolation.
When did you take a step to start writing?
I was toying around with the idea for about five months before I started writing anything. When the world gradually began to start opening up and we could finally get back to work (I sometimes do background work on TV shows), I remember sitting in the green room of a cop show called Stay Close, waiting to be used and abused by the assistant director. There had been a lull in conversation with the other extras surrounding me and I finally decided to put pen to paper and start planning the structure of my story.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
I think it took about 18 months from getting my first idea to when it was released.
Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write this book?
Writing this book was an essential part of getting me through lockdown. I usually do quite well in isolation given my more creative and introverted personality, but I needed a new way to challenge myself – one that was entirely within my control.
What were your biggest challenges with writing Magnus Powell And The Shadow Squad?
Motivation. I have a terrible attention span for anything that doesn’t interest me, and I find the actual writing process to be particularly tedious. So finding the motivation to get out of bed and start writing every morning was difficult.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
There were many inspirations for Magnus Powell but he is mainly based on myself as an anxious teen who felt like he didn’t fit in and just wanted to hide from the world. Luckily, like Magnus, I had a wonderful group of people around me to help me overcome those negative emotions.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
The Master is largely based on great villains from many books and movies in the fantasy genre such as Voldemort or Darth Sidious. Though The Master’s motivation is squarely routed in his abusive and poverty-stricken past, which resulted in a selfish entitlement and lust for power.
What is the inciting incident of Magnus Powell And The Shadow Squad?
The inciting incident occurs when Magnus is broken out of prison by the Shadow Squad and forced to turn his back on the only life he’s ever known and fight an oppressive dictator who has abandoned the needs of his people.
What is the main conflict of Magnus Powell And The Shadow Squad?
Upon leaving the prison, Magnus realizes he has supernatural powers he cannot yet control. Once The Master discovers this he seeks to claim Magnus for himself and turn him into a deadly weapon.
Did you plot Magnus Powell And The Shadow Squad in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
I wrote a very rough plan with bullet points of everything that was going to happen in each chapter before the real writing process began.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Magnus Powell And The Shadow Squad need?
The first person I allowed to read my book was my sister, as I knew she would give me honest and constructive feedback without crushing my fragile self-esteem. After that I sent it to Emma at The Word Hutt to proofread and help me get it published.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
Stop worrying about what other people will think of your work and just get it done. So many people hold themselves back from creative endeavors because they’re frightened of negative feedback. I used to be the same until I realized that not everyone will like what you do, but some will, and it’s those people that should motivate you. I read a quote today by Ricky Gervais which said, ‘It’s better to create something and be criticized than to create nothing and criticize others.’
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
I am half way through writing the second book in the Magnus Powell saga with the third one currently in the very early planning stages also. Things are gonna get bonkers.
And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
I am extremely proud that I was able to write and publish my first book. It’s something I never thought I had the chops for, but it’s taught me that you really can achieve anything as long as you’re willing to work hard at it and silence those negative thoughts that tell you you’re not good enough.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
https://www.instagram.com/greghulmeauthor/
https://www.facebook.com/greghulmeauthor
https://www.greghulmemusic.com/music
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