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Gayle Fidler Interview

Grace Fidler

The Indie Book Butler Interview.

Indie Book Butler: Let’s start things off with an introduction. Tell us a little about yourself for those not already aware of you and your work.

Gayle Fidler: My name is Gayle Fidler and I am a writer from the North East of England. I have had several short stories published through independent publisher Leg Iron Books.

I have also written several articles for online and print magazines. Mainly on the paranormal and occult.

When I not writing, I try and keep as far away as possible from a “conventional” existence.  I live in a house with a large collection of bad taxidermy and my heavy metal fan husband.

We spend a lot of time researching unsolved mysteries and dressing as Pirates.

My first novel “The ties that bind” is currently in draft. I am hoping it should be finished very soon.

IBB: You’ve got twenty words to tempt us to read your book(s). What would you say?

GF: Want to try an alternate existence? I’ll hold your hand and take you. I can’t promise to bring you back.

IBB: Where do you like to write?

At my kitchen table. Boring, but it is near the kettle and handy for the fridge.

IBB: Is there anything you must have in order to write?

A good night’s sleep. I write best at silly o’clock in the morning when no one else is up. I can’t focus at that time if I haven’t slept properly.

IBB: What books have influenced you most, both as a person and as an author?

The Gargoyle by Andrew Davidson. Possibly the only book that has made me cry so much my face hurt, whilst feeling physically sick. I finished it and immediately wanted to read it again.

Sharon Bolton has also been a huge influence on me. The folk horror vibe she has is spellbinding.

IBB: What is the one thing that has helped you develop most as an author?

Being able to finally get over that feeling of horror when I send someone my writing. I used to want to throw up when anyone read my work. Writing is a very personal journey for me. I have almost managed to overcome that fear. I wouldn’t have been able to get anything published if I hadn’t!

IBB: What do you want to achieve most from your writing?

Currently, I want to finish my first novel. I am almost there. After that, I have several more book ideas up my sleeve. I need to get them out and onto paper.

IBB: Have you received a favorite review of your work?

“A quirky, clever writer” — this came from an English teacher (not mine).  I was pleasantly surprised.

IBB: Were there any particular parts of the writing/publishing process that you struggled with?

Proofreading. I am a lazy proof-reader. I need to work at this. I have the concentration span of a flea.

IBB: Is there something specific you do to improve your writing?

Constantly checking my grammar. I am appalling at grammar, as my husband will testify. He is always picking me up on it.

IBB: What is the ideal relationship between editor and author?

Someone who believes in you but is brutally honest. You cannot improve without honesty.

 

IBB: If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring author, what would it be?

Open your laptop. It is the hardest part of writing.

IBB: What does your writing future hold for you?

Hopefully, it will take me on more weird and wonderful adventures. I love the excitement that research gives me, especially when it takes an odd turn.

IBB: How have you set about the task of creating enticing cover art?

Not had to do this yet. I have had editors that have always done this for me so far.

IBB: How often do you read? What genre?

Really depends on what I am researching. My bookshelves are full of reference books, mainly occult and history.

If I want true escapism I will reach for a thriller.

IBB: Before we let you escape, it’s your chance to name-drop. Anyone who you feel is deserving of more recognition at present or someone whose writing you have recently enjoyed? Now is your chance to spread the word…

Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. Best of luck in the future.

For more on Gayle and her work, please visit:

Author Page

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