Q: An epistolary novel featuring two of Jane Austen’s minor characters – how did that all come about?
Q: There’s been quite a lot of buzz around men’s ability (or not) to write accurately from a female point of view. Were there any special challenges to writing a novel with two male protagonists?
Q: Mr Bennet and Mr Collins are responsible for a lot of the humour within Pride and Prejudice and The Longbourn Letters is also filled with similar charm and wit. How difficult is it to write amusing prose and know what is going to be funny to the reader?
Q: Your next novel is a continuation of “The Watsons”. How has the writing process (a “continuation”) differed for you from The Longbourn Letters?
Quickfire questions:
Q: How did your interest in Jane Austen’s novels arise?
Q: What is your favourite Austen novel?
Q: What is your favourite Austen quote (from a book or letter)?
Q: What are your other literary inspirations and favourite authors?
Q: Do you have any writing rituals?