Ask the Author: L.A. Shute
Answered Questions (6)
L.A. Shute
In the very beginning I decided absolutely against trying to write a mystery or "inspector" story - because it seemed to me that every (especially new) writer does that. And they all sound the same. Without skill or direct knowledge everyone tries to set their story in the Victorian era and make their protagonist a Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot wannabe. I would not stoop to that. But reading a very old short mystery story recently I realized it didn't have to be that way so I gave in and decided to try a mystery story but one that would be different than all the rest. I'm not sure I succeeded in that regard but I like the way it turned out and I'm happy with it. I, also, used it to include many of my friends and acquaintances as actual characters in the story (names were changed) because I had kind of been challenged by them over the years to do so. It made for a more personal but fun story. I've gotten lots of good reactions to it. "A Hollowtree Murder".
L.A. Shute
Good question and I don't think I know the answer. It's just something I feel like I need to do once in a while. Initially I tried it to see if I could. I felt good about what I turned out and from there I am encouraged to continue because it feels good.
L.A. Shute
Very recently published a new book "A Hollowtree Murder" (I encourage you to read it if you haven't). So right now I'm looking for inspiration for the next thing. Kind of looking at a collection of short stories.
L.A. Shute
Just Do It! Jump in and try - but be ready to take advice and criticism and make changes to what you think is already great. And be prepared to be disappointed when you don't have instant success.
L.A. Shute
The best thing, I guess, is the outlet writing gives me to express myself or say things I think are important but don't have any other good way to say them. I'm not much of a talker and certainly not an extrovert so writing is a way to communicate.
L.A. Shute
I just kind of wait it out. Eventually something I believe to be important or interesting comes to me again and I grow into the mood to write about it.
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