Goodreads asked Shane McCartney:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Shane McCartney Buy an old fashioned notebook and make as many notes as possible, I find carrying one in my pocket while going about my business very productive. On the bus or subway, or walking down the street my brain gets charged by the interaction of people around me and sometimes there is a spark. Even if they do not verbally interact, those around you can give inspiration by the way of body language and interaction, or lack of. When searching for ideas for a book look on what’s happening in real life, on the news, anything that grabs your attention most likely will grab that of your readers with similar interest. Never forget that there are still many great stories to be told with history facts. Make notes, even if they don't fully make sense to your storyline at the time; you will find that they will meld together to make your story more fascinating and true to life. Take your time; a good story is never rushed. Have an idea of your ending, even roughly and work your way backwards two chapters, it can prevent you from writing without any direction at the beginning straying from a gripping storyline.

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