Interview with Phillipa Nefri Clark

Published 2017-01-11.
What's the story behind your latest book?
I live near a real stationmaster's cottage, although these days it is a private home. There was always a story in it and I loved the idea of hidden clues to an old family secret. Although we live inland, I grew up around the coast and knew this had to be set somewhere along the Great Ocean Road.
What is your writing process?
I write intuitively, allowing each character to speak to me and each other and allowing their needs to move the story. Once the first draft is complete, I begin to build more structure and do a lot of editing!
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
In many parts of Australia. We moved often but in most cases, it was near the sea. I have strong memories of the ocean, of wild beaches, graveyards and interesting people. These are all generally found somewhere or other in almost everything I write.
Describe your desk
I have two! One is the dining room table which looks out to lots of greenery through two windows. The other is in the study, a peaceful place that is always rather messy. On the wall beside my desk, I have a whiteboard and tape up lots of notes, chapter summaries and pictures.
When did you first start writing?
Before I started attending school.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I want to reach a wide readership of people who love my kind of story.
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