Elizabeth Clare | Helle Gade

Please give a warm welcome to

Have you always wanted to become and author?

Yes, I have. I have loved reading since I learned and actually started writing for Mills and Boon. Despite the fact that they asked for a synopsis of four of my stories I never got accepted for publication. Then I was too busy being a mum, it wasn’t until my children were older that I started to write again. Joining a writing group was the catalyst that finally put me on my publishing journey. I wish I had started when I was younger but the time wasn’t right. Now that I no longer work, I am throwing myself into my writing and absolutely loving it.

What was your inspiration for your current book/series?

My writing group tasked us with coming up with a post-apocalyptic story and my muse ran with this idea. Dragons have always been my favourite supernatural creature so it made absolute sense that the stories would contain them. I started with a vague idea outline of the story and as I wrote, it grew from there. I didn’t start with the idea of it being a trilogy but I have really enjoyed writing about the dragon clans and their Innamorata’s.

What are you working on now?

Well I can’t say too much as it is a work in progress but it has nothing to do with dragons. Although I am sad The Dragons Clan Series has come to an end, I am also glad to be writing about something else. It is paranormal and if it is liked could turn into a duology. I am very excited as it is something different. Here is a teaser with a huge clue!

Of course, my muse is already thinking about the next book and I will be returning to dragons!

Do you have any quirks while writing?

I have changed a room in my house into my ‘writing room’ this helps me to be disciplined, and because everything is set up and ready, I have no excuse not to write. I like to listen to the radio while I write and couldn’t function properly if I didn’t have a window to gaze out of when I’m stuck for a word or just need a break.

What are your hopes for the future?

I really hope that readers will continue to like my stories so I can keep on writing. I knew I would love the process of making up a story but not how much. It brings me great joy to sit down and let the words flow, especially when the characters take over and unexpected things start to happen. I want to be a writer for as long as people will read my stories.

Do you have any advice for new authors about the publishing world?

You need to be determined. For me the easiest and most enjoyable part of the whole process is writing the first draft. When the rewrites start, the editing and the actual publishing that’s when the determination comes in. Make sure you find a good editor who you connect with, also a book cover artist who can bring to life your vision for the cover. Find people you can trust to read your story and give you good advice and encouragement, especially in the first draft. Always remember that all authors at some point hate what they have written, and doubt that they are capable of writing a sentence, let alone a novel!

Do you have anything to say to your readers?

Without the readers and the people in my group I wouldn’t be here. Their support and enthusiasm mean everything and I can’t thank them enough. I hope they will continue with me on my journey as I strive to improve, and write stories that they will hopefully embrace and enjoy.

Please come and stalk me if you want to know more, it is always wonderful to have new members.