Q&A Interview with Helen H. Durrant
Today I am delighted to welcome Helen H. Durrant to take part in my Q&A Interview. Helen is author of The Calladine & Bayliss series, and Dead Jealous is the latest one that is out in the series.Which is available from amazon right now.
I’m the product of an English and father and a Scottish mother – the war has a lot to answer for! I live in the north of England – in a small village which is part of Greater Manchester. I live surrounded by hills – the Pennines. A beautiful part of the world. I am mum to two grown up daughters and have five grandkids.
When did you know that you wanted to become a writer? and how did you go about it?
I decided I’d write books when I was ten! I was sat at the kitchen table at home and had just been given a stack of Enid Blyton books for my birthday. However, up until I retired, I simply didn’t have the time. My ‘proper’ job was all consuming, and left little time for anything else. But … I was always thinking about plots, names and settings for books I might write one day.
Can you tell us what genre your books are and the audience you write for?
I write crime thrillers. The audience – anyone who cares to read them. They are not pitched at a particular age or sex but perhaps are not suitable for young kids!
What is your writing process? and how long does it take?
I write every day. I write mostly in the mornings and again in the evening. I never get bored. Ideas are constantly bubbling around in my brain. Currently I have two series on the go. The Calladine & Bayliss series and the Greco one. Each book takes roughly three months to complete. As I am reaching the end of one – the next is already taking shape in my head.
Are your characters based on anyone you know or are they just fictional?
The characters are fictional. A number of the names in my books belong to family and friends – both first names and surnames.
Have you wrote about a personal experience in your novels?
Occasionally, but it will only be a little thing.
What research do you do?
The research depends on the topics in the book. I research locations by visiting them. I research the forensic stuff by talking to a friend of mine who has experience. Plus there is always Google – there is a wealth of info out there, plus any number of forums.
Who would you like to co-write with and why?
I couldn’t co-write with anyone. I’m not the argumentative type but I can already see the problems!
What's your favorite book?
Alice in Wonderland – it coloured my entire life!
What's your favorite food?
Good quality chocolate ice-cream
What's your favorite film?
I’ve got three – all very much of a type: Saturday night & Sunday morning. Spring & port wine, and A kind of loving.
What's your favorite song?
‘In thoughts of you’ by Billy Fury
How can readers find out more information about yourself and your books?
I have a website www.helenhdurrant.co.uk
Thank you so much for joining me today Helen
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