Ask the Author: Barbara Gaskell Denvil
Answered Questions (10)
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
Thanks, Kathy. I have considered writing a sequel to The Flame Eater, particularly because I am so fond of those characters, and we all know Bosworth is imminent. But I have not yet planned the exact time to write this - I'm so much in the middle of other books that my list of "To Be Written" books is getting longer and longer. So it may happen but not just yet.
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
Hi Mike - thanks for asking. Blessop is a surname which is still in use nowadays and can be traced back many hundreds of years. Tyballis, on the other hand, was quite an unusual female Christian name and although there are instances of this name being in use in medieval times, it seems to have lost popularity in Tudor times and then died out. I hope you enjoy the book. All the best, Barbara.
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
Hi Cintia, I do sympathise. My suggestion would be to stop stressing. Stress and pressure will definitely block your imagination. Every book starts in your head - not on paper. Begin by relaxing in the warmth, and just dream. Think of your own dreams - the people you love - the hopes you have. Let these thoughts drift and swirl. Imagine your ideal man. What would he think of you? What would you do about it? What problems do your friends face? War - famine - or happiness and hope? Give yourself a month without even trying to write a single word - and just let the book take gradual shape in your mind. Hope this helps and good luck.
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
Hi Gill - actually I keep notes - endlessly! I have a large note book, each with an individual and easily recognisable cover, for each book I write and I keep copious notes. Sometimes I think I spend more time writing notes than I do writing books! Keeping accurate continuity can be quite complicated.
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
My ideas have no direct one track source - but actually this YA fantasy was originally inspired when I saw Matthew Bourne's production of Swan Lake - and fell in love with the concept
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
Inspiration is continuous - life inspires me - books inspire me - dreams inspire me - inspiration is all around if you open your mind
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
O'm presently working on a three book YA trilogy which is both history and fantasy. It's a change for me and I love it.
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
First to make absolutely sure this is what you want to do. I think many people like the idea without actually having a real passion for writing. If the passion is there - go for it. But it can be a slog of years facing failure, frustration and frustration. The benefits are there - but rarely major success or money. Determination is the key
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
Having a sense of purpose, definitely
Barbara Gaskell Denvil
I've never had writer's block for more than a day or two. It seems to stem from lack of confidence. Well - I certainly suffer from a lack of confidence quite often - but it is inspiration that keeps me going. I just get on with it.
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