Interview with Matt Ross
Published 2015-06-17.
Describe your desk
Haha. Home is just too chaotic with the dogs and cats so it's my work desk - I have to stay after hours to write. My office is about 15x10 is glass fronted and has floor to ceiling windows with a view out to the DIFC area of Dubai and the Arabian Gulf beyond. I'm OCD tidy so there is nothing but a phone, my laptop and one set of trays on the desk.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in Camberley, Surrey, UK but it was the town I lived in last before relocating to Dubai that provided the inspiration for Colliston in Killing the Dream. In my next book which is nearing completion the main character lives in Camberley.
When did you first start writing?
When asked how long it took to write my first book I answer 45 years! I've always wanted to and my poor wife has had years of me suggesting plot ideas. Until October 2014 though I hadn't put a single word on paper.
What's the story behind your latest book?
Killing the Dream was inspired by the type of person I see in Dubai every day. Having relocated myself I could relate Jim and Carly's experiences. I'm grateful to say that's where the similarities end - their life is pretty unique!
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I received excellent comments from my pre-readers for Killing the Dream but was getting nowhere with literary agents so thought "well, why not?"
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Bringing a seed of an idea to fruit. It's like developing new friends.
What are you working on next?
My next novel is called "Made Bad" - it features a serial killer but with a major story line twist. It also doesn't feature the police - I was keen to write a crime thriller from someone else's perspective.
Who are your favorite authors?
Oh, there are so many but Stuart MacBride, Jeffrey Deaver, Peter James, Lee Child and Paul Finch spring to mind.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
My wife. With a kick. I'd get up at lunchtime if I could. I'm nocturnal.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
I've got a Kindle Paperwhite now and I couldn't live without it.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Working mainly. I'm a Director for a property company and it keeps me pretty busy. When I do get spare time I've usually got some music on being an avid rock fan - look for Rock names as characters in the books! You might find me strumming one of my guitars although you won't recognise anything as I'm terrible. I watch a fair amount of football but as an Aston Villa fan that hasn't been particularly enjoyable. I travel whenever I can.
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