When I started writing The Book of Learning (Nine Lives Trilogy 1), I was new to Dublin and infatuated with exploring this beautiful, friendly city. The parks, museums, theatres, cathedrals; there was so much to see. As I immersed myself in my new surroundings, the characters of Ebony Smart and Icarus Bean – who had been … Continue reading
When you’re creating, things don’t always go according to plan. You can have a great idea that doesn’t work once you flesh it out, a wonderful first draft that won’t develop, or even a story that’s several drafts in yet refusing to behave. Sound familiar? Well, take a deep breath and relax – because this … Continue reading
Books and travel are my two favourite things in the world, and so, seeing as it’s Christmas Eve, I thought I’d take a look at some traditions from around the globe on this day. Iceland is definitely my favourite – how about you? Austria: The tree is decorated and lit for the first time on … Continue reading
This month I asked my very lovely and very talented writer friend, Caroline Busher, to write a guest post about her debut novel for young readers, The Ghosts of Magnificent Children which has just been published. Take it away, Caroline! People often ask me what inspired me to write a ghost story for children. I smile politely … Continue reading
I’m always interested in other people’s writing processes, so I thought I’d write a post on how inspirational places have affected my novels, in the hope that you’ll then share some of yours! Whenever I write, I’m inspired by my surroundings, and that’s why seascapes and rural West Cork have become so important in my … Continue reading
I believe that when you write, if it’s something you love and feel passionate about, you’ll make time for writing, no matter how busy your schedule. But I also know that sometimes we need a special place to kick start our energy levels, think about our process, or to help us rediscover the joy. Nature … Continue reading
When I write, I find it impossible to listen to music because I find it too distracting. I have to write in complete silence. And yet, music plays an important role in my new young adult novel, Caramel Hearts. The main character, Liv Bloom, is obsessed with Johnny Cash, and his music is referred to at … Continue reading
A first draft is exciting, but it can also be daunting. You have an idea and characters ready to burst onto the page, but at the same time, you have an intimidating blank screen glaring at you, daring you to fill it. So, how do you dive in and start getting those ideas down? How … Continue reading
In my new book, Caramel Hearts, there are real cake recipes throughout. These recipes structure the book and are weaved into the story. The book is about a teenage girl with an alcoholic mum, trying to find her way in the world. When she finds a handwritten cookbook that belongs to her mum, she decides … Continue reading
Writers write, but writers also read. And we read lots. We’re talking piles of books, no, mountains of books! If you tell me you’re writing a book, don’t tell me that you don’t have time to read. It’s an essential part of the job – and it’s delicious! Every book is a personal journey and sometimes … Continue reading
GirlsHeartBooks 