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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, Valerie Newman shares what inspired her to write her new novel, Journey To Spiritiouness, and her creative writing process.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed author Valerie Newman about her life and career, what inspired her to write her new book, Valerie Newman, and her creative writing process.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
Hi my names Val Newman and I recently had my first book published. I love writing, spending time with my family and friends. I also love spending time with my animals. I have a shiatzus called Blue and a cat called Shadow.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
I have always loved writing, its definitely a passion of mine. I remember writing a short story in college and the tutor said I had a good imagination. That just spurred me on to write a book.
When did you take a step to start writing?
I had yet another operation on my jaw, there was an incident several years ago when I had my lower jaw broken. Apparently, I had damaged a lot of nerve endings in my face and I also got arthritis in the right and left temporomandibular joints. The right side was much worse than the left and I eventually had to have a replacement joint.
Having so many operations meant that I needed to have to take time off work to recuperate.
At first, I didn’t know what to do with my time until one day when I just thought why don’t I write a book. I picked up my laptop and started to write Journey to Spiritiouness and got so lost in my thoughts, that the time flashed by. I remember thinking to myself how much I enjoyed writing so much so that I couldn’t wait until the next day so I could do it all again.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
It took me 2 years to complete. I sent my manuscript to a few publishers but they didn’t bite so I realized then that I would have to self-publish.
What made you want to write Journey To Spiritiouness?
What were your biggest challenges with writing Journey To Spiritiouness?
My biggest challenge writing the book was coming up with the characters. Once I had all my characters though it was so much easier.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
I would have to say Harry Potter, I love all of the books and films and find them to be inspirational.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
Snape for sure.
What is the main conflict of Journey To Spiritiouness?
The main conflict is Aziah’s desire to obtain the Amulets and Laura’s and Mikes powers. He will stop at nothing to get his claws on their magic.
Did you plot Journey
To Spiritiouness in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
No there was no plotting involved, although I did have to write down important facts so that I knew exactly where and what each character was up to.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Journey To Spiritiouness need?
Yes, I got support with editing. I told the editor not to change my style of writing and she did a great job.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
My advice would be to just do it. Don’t think about it just spring in to action and do it.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
I’m writing a book called Return to Zolaris. It’s a follow-on rom Journey to Spiritiouness.
And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
Yes, I’m very proud of my book and of myself for sticking at it to the end.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
Journey to Spiritiouness is available on Amazon, Kobo and Barnes and Noble.
Kindle: https://amzn.to/3NPfc13
Paperback: https://amzn.to/46CRyNT
Hardcover: https://amzn.to/46JHhPN
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