Interview with Sarah Collier
Published 2014-01-31.
Describe your desk
My computer sits on my desk, where all my stories get written down. I have paper and pens on hand to jot anything down.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up where I currently live, in Redditch, Worcestershire. In fact I have always lived in the same house. I don't think anything in particular has influenced my writing about where I live. Perhaps doing projects in school and college has made me want to write, but really, it comes down to me wanting to write naturally. It is my passion.
When did you first start writing?
When I was ten years old and I had to write about world war one, and another around the same time on being trapped aboard a ship, and writing about my destination, which for my age they thought I wrote particularly well. I didn't really write for a few years after, but when I was seventeen or eighteen I had to write a children's book for a school project and the teacher asked If I had any help doing it, I had not. I enjoy writing as a pastime and hobby and I enjoy the idea of people reading the work I have poured my heart into.
What's the story behind your latest book?
The last train of Mary Bennett is a short story about a mystery, a train, a young woman and a suspicious looking man. You will have to download it to find out more!
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Having the satisfaction of others enjoying what I have written. I also find the writing and creating scenarios and people most interesting and satisfying.
Who are your favorite authors?
I enjoy Dilly Court, she has been my favourite for some time. I also enjoy classics such as Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Shakespeare and Agatha Christie.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
The first story I ever wrote would be the children's book I wrote for college about a trip to the zoo. I wrote it when I was about seventeen or eighteen. My tutor asked me if I had help with it, but I hadn't. She thought I had because of the quality! And it was only a rushed project. They decided to display it in the college. I never had it back, it might still be there now!
How do you approach cover design?
My partner is very good with computers and designs my covers for me. I tell him what I want my cover to say and the impression I want to give and he uses his skills to design me a brilliant cover. He is my illustrator.
What do you read for pleasure?
I enjoy romance, historical, mystery, adventure, horror, sci fi, classic books, many different genres.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
I used to have a kindle, but I have decided the very best way to own books is paper. Paper copies will always be the best to own, really!
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I enjoy creating craft for my small business, Sarah's creative corner. I also enjoy collecting.
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