Who is your most or least favourite character to write?

I am yet to write a character I don’t like actually! All of them have a purpose and strengths and weaknesses, a back story that makes them who they are. I adore profiling each of my characters, even the supporting cast, making sure each has some kind of impact on my main character, and then bringing them to life on the page.

What’s the best response you’ve ever had to your writing?

A reader, who reads most of my words and is very bluntly honest, once described one of my manuscripts as a potential classic. That was an absolute highlight and a moment I still cherish since I respect and admire them so. Also being told by children that I’ve helped them accept themselves, or similar, that’s incredibly special. In fact, I don’t think it gets much better.

What genre/s do you write in?

At the moment I write mainly middle grade contemporary and chapter books, but I also love to dabble in middle grade horror as well.

As a writer, are you a plotter or a pantser or somewhere in between?

I was a plopantser for many years – so somewhere in between – but the more I write, the more I’ve become a full and dedicated plotter. I now write a synopsis and detailed chapter outline before I draft and, since I’m not the most patient of people or relaxed of drafters, it has made the first-draft process far more enjoyable.

What’s your writing goal for the next twelve months?

Finish the draft of my current MG WIP (which I may or may not be writing alone), plot the next one, complete edits on my next two upcoming books, and enjoy my book releases. The Bravest Word is out in Australia on May 4 and PAWS in the UK on August 4, then early 2023 I have more. It’s all a little daunting and will be busy with a lot of juggling, but I’m so ready!

What words of advice would you give an aspiring author?

The same one I always impart: ENJOY. Enjoy the parts of this business you can control and don’t be afraid to ask for help.