I started to write after reading so many bad anthologies, which I presume were from the 60's or 70's. I just picked up pencil and paper and started writing, probably thinking that I would not complete the work. It was unknown to me, if I was writing a novel or short story. The thought never crossed my mind.
So, I didn't intend to become a writer, it just burrowed under my skin. I even started to research my work. The words turned out to be my first short story, Minion. After the umpteenth draft, I read it and thought, it's a lot better than some published work I've read.
I bought books on how to write and get published. It turns out that I seemed to tick all the boxes for the way NOT to start writing. Ooppps!
How good was my story though? I'd have to see if I could get published in an anthology, (better than the 60's or 70's I read) without having to pay. I thought, if I send it to America, then I can't hear them laughinng from Scotland. They "bought" my story and it was published. So proud, eh?
Since then, I've read quality books, like: Stephen King, John Saul, Koontz, Clive Barker... I've still to get around to reading an Anne Rice book. A lot of what I read now is reference material. I especially enjoy researching history, always have.
Please email me, I'd appreciate your views on any aspect of the book, Short Shocks Vol I or your views on the short story Whispers.
Please visit again soon.
Regards, Andy.