I live on the Isle of Wight with my husband and chronically clumsy Labrador. I love going on rambling walks and paddling about in my kayak. I’ve been writing for about ten years and I mentor other writers. I am an avid reader and have recently gotten a hammock that I spend a lot of my time in.
Meet Anna Britton
Questions on Writing
What was the hardest part about writing Shot In The Dark?
Shot in the Dark is predominantly told from Detective Sergeant Gabe Martin’s point of view, but interspersed with lots of emails, calls, texts, and other documents. Making sure that all these elements work together was sometimes a challenge – like solving a massive puzzle!
What have you learnt about yourself when writing?
That I can put in the time and effort to do something difficult. Writing a book is hard – and editing it to a good standard is even harder. I struggle sometimes to believe that I’m capable of complicated things, but holding my debut novel in my hands is confirmation that I can do far more than I think I can.
Do you make yourself write everyday/regularly, or only when inspiration strikes?
I try to write every morning from Monday to Friday, and then in the afternoons as well if I don’t have other work to do. I like having a rhythm, and sitting down every morning and knowing I have a couple of hours to type away is really helpful. I like to take the weekends off – it gives me a chance to rest and read so that then I’m ready to launch into another week of writing!
What does literary success look like to you?
Gosh – I’m not sure! Like most writers, the goal posts move all the time. I am trying to hold onto the achievement of having a debut novel published, but already I can feel myself turning to the next goal and the one after that. I guess it boils down to being happy with what you’re doing – so if I’m able to write and other people enjoy my stories, that would feel like a success to me.
How much planning/world building do you do before writing, and how much comes along as you write?
Pretty much none. I really like the story to unfold as I write, so I don’t do any planning. I know vaguely where I’d like it to go, but that can change along the way as well! I do a lot more planning once I get to the editing stage – that’s when a colour coded spreadsheet comes in handy.
What was it that attracted you to this particular genre?
I didn’t think too much about the genre before I started writing Shot in the Dark. The first scene of a young woman running through a moonlit forest popped into my head, and the rest of the story spilled out from there. It was only as I got more into it that I began to think it was a crime novel.
How do you celebrate when a book is published?
I love to gather together with friends and family. For Shot in the Dark I had an online launch too, and it was lovely to see further flung friends. I’ve also gotten a tattoo!
Questions on Books and About You
Firstly, the most important question, what books are currently ‘on your bedside table’?
Far too many! My TBR pile is out of control… But some highlights in there are The Wakeup Call by Beth O’Leary and The Housekeepers by Alex Hay.
What children’s book would you suggest every adult read?
I absolutely adore The Brambly Hedge Series by Jill Barklem. I’d hope that people would read it and see that it’s wonderful to be cosy and surrounded by food at all times.
What does your writing space look like?
I’m very nomadic, so I don’t have a set writing space. It tends to be wherever is warmest in the house during the winter and outside in the shade in the summer. I have just gotten a new laptop (which I love) and I usually have a Labrador snoozing nearby.
How many books do you think you own?
I’m genuinely not sure. There are three bookcases in my house and they are all over-full!
Who is your literary icon?
I absolutely love Joanne Harris. Her books are so beautifully written and some advice on her website inspired me to start writing. She said to stop writing the books you think you should, and instead write the books in your heart. So that’s what I did!
Is there an author who you always read?
There are lots! I always read everything by Patrick Ness, TJ Klune, Jane Austen (although it’s unlikely she’ll bring out anything new), Elizabeth Strout, Fredrik Backman, Becky Chambers, and Rainbow Rowell.
And finally, are there any plans for any new books? If so, what teasers can you give us?
I’m working on Martin and Stern book two now! I can’t say too much, but there’s another twisty case that tests Gabe and Juliet to their limits.
Thank you Anna😊I agree that Joanne Harris’ books are such gorgeous reads.
Anna Britton’s Books
Books By Your Bedside 