An Interview with Amber Jean
Hello! My name is Amber. I am based in The Midlands with my girlfriend, and I am an aspiring thriller author. I take huge inspiration from my favourite authors such as Frieda McFadden and Gillian McAllister. My day job is very serious and in a completely different field, so being able to write gives me a phenomenal creative outlet.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
This book is based off some of my own personal experiences; it’s very close to my heart. I decided to make it a thriller book due to my own love for thrillers. I have tried many other genres, but thrillers will always be my favourite.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
So, I have just finished Hollie Seddon’s 59 Minutes which I absolutely devoured. And I am currently reading Harriet Tyces’ The Lies You Told and also devouring this. Bloody brilliant.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
My best friend is also a writer, and she has definitely inspired me to continue. We often exchange harsh text messages, giving each other a kick up the bum. When we worked together once, we met a retired author who gave us the advice to ‘just write.’ And so that’s what we are both doing! Just writing and hoping people will love it.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
Do not stick with something if you hate it. If you hate it, why should a reader like it? Follow your gut and crack on with it.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
I hope they take away the message I’m trying to convey surrounding a particular mental illness. There is such little exposure about this, and I really hope people can leave with even just a bit more understanding of the impact it had. I also just want them to enjoy it; I really, really want them to enjoy it. I write for myself, but I write so others can have that feeling in their stomach when they put down a book and it just sticks with them.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.
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