Andy Howden interview

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

When did your love of books begin?

I think it was sixth form for me when I really started to think I would love to read English at University. Rather bizarrely for a lad growing up in the Yorkshire Dales, I really liked reading Jane Austen’s Persuasion for A level! Something about her ability to bring characters to life and wonderful choice of phrase.

When did you start to have the wish to become an author?

I have enjoyed creative writing ever since primary school (I’m old enough for it to have been called ‘composition’ at the time!), and have dabbled with writing through my adult life, much of it recounting the ups and downs of supporting Hull City (a tragi-comedy in 3 acts). I had an idea for a novel about 10 years ago but it was only when I had time to pursue a Creative Writing MA at St. Mary’s University in Twickenham that I found the time and discipline to write a novel.

How have you found the process for becoming an author?

Definitely one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. I know there are lots of highs and lows in writing a book and it can be a bit lonely, but if you’re really engaged with your own story and your characters, it should be fun! And the moment when you touch a copy of your own book is really special.

What would you say to those wanting to become an author?

Blimey, there’s lots one could say but I’d settle for 4 things.

1. It does take a long time and there will be moments when you think ‘why am I doing this and will anyone want to read it?’ but if you really want to do it, stick at it.

2. Try to enjoy editing and writing the second and subsequent drafts as much as the first, as you’ll definitely need more than one go to get it right!

3. Write the story you want to write rather than trying to follow a trend of what sells.

4. There are lots of ways to see your book in print. If you can get an agent, great, but don’t let that define success for you. Whether your book is read by 5 friends or 5,000 readers, you’ve done something to be proud of.

Tell us about your book/books:

The one liner for my debut, Melting in the Middle, is that it’s an uplifting story of redemption, second chances – and chocolate – amid the madness of modern life.

At the start of the novel, the central character, Stephen, is facing a mid-life crisis. His career with Britain’s worst chocolate company is heading for the rocks when it’s taken over by US confectionery giant Schmaltz. He’s messed up in his private life and is struggling to keep a toehold in the lives of his teenage children. Then he meets Rachel, who dances to a very different beat. She challenges him to do good among the carnage that surrounds him. But to do so, he must confront his past and work out all over again what really matters.

What do you love about the writing/reading community?

Their generosity. I think the writing community on Twitter are great about sharing each other’s work and success, and I’ve had great help and feedback from other writers. And I think all debut novelists feel very appreciative of readers who are prepared to take a chance and explore their work rather than just read their established favourites.

If you could say anything to your readers what would it be?

To those who have read MITM , thank you for doing so and for your lovely reviews. And to anyone who might think of giving it a go, I’d try to sum up what others seem to have liked about it. Thankfully, readers seem to have found it funny, particularly its take on office culture that is such a big part of all our lives, but also with serious themes around forgiveness and renewal. And reviewers seem to have appreciated reading what is in part a rom-com from a male perspective.

Where can people connect with you?

Primarily through Twitter, @andy_howden but also through Facebook, @andyhowdenwriter. And I have a website at www.andyhowden.com.