Introduce yourself; who are you and what types of books do you write?
My name is Megan Hinde and I write a variety of things, from detective stories to flash fiction pieces and an ebook cookbook series called From Edna’s Kitchen.
What are your books about?
My Detective Stories follow a Detective named James Andrews and his experiences being a homicide detective, as well as navigating his relationships and outlook on life. I categorize it as mystery, thriller, noir. My flash fiction collections are short pieces that came about from asking random people for the following: an item, a place and a name or occupation and I come up with something out of those three elements. It’s an enjoyable writing prompt exercise that has taken on a life of its own.
What was the inspiration behind writing your first book?
I came across an old piece of dialogue in a writing exercise that I had done for a class in college and it sparked something and I expanded on it. It eventually turned into what is now my ebook titled Grace’s Story.
What is the most rewarding part of being an author?
The freedom of expression, I write whatever I feel like at the moment. Be it a full narrative story or small fifty word musing about an experience. Having readers comment or appreciate what I have written is also an added bonus.
What elements do you think make for a good story?
Believable characters that are driven by plot. Strong world building, as a reader you need to feel like you are part of the characters' world.
What is the hardest part of being an author for you?
As any author that puts themselves out there, it’s lack of exposure and feedback. I try to remember that I write for myself, as entertainment, sometimes therapy. It’s a craft that can be improved, studied and appreciated.
What was a disappointment or struggle during your writing career?
First, I’m not sure you can call what I do a ‘career’, it's a side hobby. The only disappointment is in myself for getting sucked into other people's opinions of me and my writing, early on. I’ve learned (the hard way) that you can’t please everyone. So, I have moved on to taking it all with a grain of salt.
What is your current writing project?
Right now, I am focused on improving my storytelling ability, and have been doing more flash fiction writing prompts. Recently finished a short story called Jane’s Addiction that started as one thing and morphed into a completely different thing. But I enjoyed the journey of writing it and seeing where these characters ended up.
What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
This:
“Don’t bend; don’t water it down; don’t try to make it logical; don’t edit your own soul according to the fashion. Rather, follow your most INTENSE OBSESSIONS mercilessly.” - Franz Kafka
Where can readers discover more about you and your books?
Amazon Link:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Megan-Hinde/author/B018F9AT1C
WordPress website:
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