Ask the Author: Caroline Beecham
Answered Questions (6)
Caroline Beecham
I was researching 'Maggie's Kitchen' when I came across the War Artists' Advisory Committee, whose role was to produce an artistic and documentary history of Britain during wartime. Then I discovered that of the thirty-seven full-time contracts given, thirty-six went to men and only one was given to a woman. This really sparked something for me and I imagined there would have been female artists who had an issue with this, and Eleanor was one of them!
Caroline Beecham
I usually come across a fact or subject that I find surprising or is little-known, then I imagine characters in a scenario that will bring the story to life. I love the whole process of researching and writing, so there's usually a lot to stimulate ideas along the way.
Caroline Beecham
I'm working on a third novel, which is also set during the Second World War, and without going into detail, its a compelling story that's both sad and uplifting...
Caroline Beecham
Write about something you know about or are really passionate about and interested in; your voice will be more authentic and hopefully distinctive and if you are going to spend years working on a project, then it needs to be something you feel strongly about.
Caroline Beecham
The best thing about being a writer is getting to share stories with people, and in the case of historical fiction, stories rooted in fact and inspired by real people.
Caroline Beecham
I often get up from my computer and go for a walk as its often once the blood flows and I'm outdoors that the ideas tend to come. Reading can be a great catalyst too as I can get immersed in other fiction and realise what the problem is that I've been getting stuck on. If that doesn't work then I'll spend my time doing research or working on something else because sometimes you just can't force it.
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