Self-publishing is revolutionising writing and publishing. In an increasingly digital age, self-publishing is providing more and more writers with an opportunity to bring their work to a potential global audience, without the need for agents, publishers and distributors. As the creative possibilities of the self-publishing revoltion make themselves felt, this model is appealing a growing number of writers.
In 2015, Pembrokeshire’s Nigel Shinner took advantage of this publishing model to launch his first novel into the world, From Within, book one of the Mindsweeper series, a fast paced detective thriller blending fact and fiction. This was swiftly followed by organised crime thriller The Legacy which, like its predecessor, gained five star reviews on Amazon and a strong word-of-mouth following, helped in no small part by Shinner seizing the initiative to promote his work on social media.
As the first part of a series on writing and writers, I recently spoke with Nigel ask him about his track record and working methods as well as his influences and experiences as a writer.
What were you like at school?
I was an average kid but imaginative.
Were you good at English?
I was terrible at English but I later discovered I was dyslexic too.
What are your ambitions for your writing career?
To be a full-time writer, and earn enough from writing to finish working.
Which writers inspire you?
Jeffery Deaver, Michael Connolly, Stephen King.
So, what have you written so far?
Two novels and a handful of short stories.
Where can we buy or see them?
My novels are both available on Amazon.
Give us an insight into your main character.
My main character is called Ray Dean. He is a tenacious detective but a damaged man. He is a good man that makes bad choices in his personal life.
What are you working on at the minute?
A sequel to my first novel FROM WITHIN.
What genre are your books?
Thrillers.
What draws you to this genre?
My view of the world is to always look for the twists and turns of every situation. And that is what a write about.
Which actor would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?
Ray Dean would be best played by Michael Fassbender.
How much research do you do?
As much as I need to create a scene or whatever it takes for a story to be credible.
When did you decide to become a writer?
In my mid 20s (I’m 45 now)
Why do you write?
I’m a frustrated film director without a crew or a budget and I’m creating my own scripts.
What made you decide to sit down and actually start something?
I was dissatisfied with my work situation and I felt I could write my way to a better life.
Do you write every day, 5 days a week or as and when?
As and when but I do need structure.
Do you aim for a set amount of words/pages per day?
I aim for a chapter per writing session. The story needs to move on every time I write something.
Do you write on a typewriter, computer, dictate or longhand?
Laptop but I jot ideas into a notepad.
Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?
I work on a basic plot and see how it develops.
What is the hardest thing about writing?
Editing.
What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?
As it’s a sequel, not having it detract from the first book and making the continuity work.
What is the easiest thing about writing?
For me, the ideas. I have loads.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
4-8 months.
Do you ever get writer’s block?
Yep!
Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?
Just keep putting any words on the page until they make sense.
Do you proofread/edit all your own books or do you get someone to do that for you?
I have an avid thriller reader to read it and see if the plot works and the grammar police to correct my errors.
How are you publishing this book and why?
Independent self-publishing through Amazon. Because it’s easy.
How do you market your books?
Social media.
What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?
They are both important parts of the process. Rejoice the good. Learn from the bad.
What’s your views on social media for marketing?
It’s vital.
Which social network worked best for you?
Facebook.
Any tips on what to do and what not to do?
Always use the correct links on your adverts on social media.
What do you think of “trailers” for books?
I think they are crucial for advertising. I have trailers for both my books
Do you think that giving books away free works and why?
It does work and it gets your name out there.
In what formats is your book available?
Kindle eBook and paperback.
How do you relax?
Movies and music.
What is your favourite film and why?
The Shawshank Redemption. It is a perfect movie. No explanation required.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Read more!
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Never quit.
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
Check out my reviews on Amazon or check out my website and my Facebook page
Nigel Shinner is currently working on his latest novel, No Angel.
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Author bio: James Gent is a freelance writer and former designer, literacy tutor and civil servant. He has contributed to several published anthologies including 1001 TV Series You Must Watch Before You Die, Blakes Heaven: Maximum Fan Power! and You & Who: Contact Has Been Made and is currently editing Me And The Starman, a tribute to David Bowie to be published by Watching Books later this year.