I’m Alex, from the UK. I’m 30 and have been writing since I was 8 years old. My degree is in Creative Writing which I got from the University of Winchester. At home I’m a wife and mother, and we have 2 black cats who frequently make their way onto my Instagram page despite it being for writing! I’m traditionally published, and also write on site Wattpad and Inkitt, where I was a part of the Wattpad Creator and Paid program for a while. I mainly write contemporary romance, but love to mix it up with other genres and write hard hitting issues while making heart-warming romances!
Meet Alexandra Orchard
Questions on Writing
What is the hardest part of your writing experience?
Always the planning. While I tend to plan a loose plot and make it up as I go along. I find that the bits I do plan are always the hardest. I don’t know the characters yet, the plot could chance…it’s difficult!
What have you learnt about yourself when writing?
I’ve learnt that I’m very interested in history. I love to absorb historical events and learn everything about them, especially from different POVs.
Do you make yourself write everyday/regularly, or only when inspiration strikes?
Usually I write everyday and force myself to. But some days I really just can’t, but I do try. At least everyday I will load my document up to re-read and “try”. If I can’t, I at least do a little bit of planning.
What does literary success look like to you?
For me, it’s seeing my book in a bookshop!
How much planning/world building do you do before writing, and how much comes along as you write?
A little. Usually I write contemporary, so it’s fairly easy! But I do like to have an outline of my characters’ lives/little part of the world before starting. Things usually then come as I write and I have to make changes after the draft if finished!
Is there anything in particular that draws you to a particular genre, or is it the story that comes first?
For me, it’s always romance that is part of any story. I love writing about love and how it can impact everything. The plots however, usually come first and then I fit the romance into the plot.
How do you celebrate when a book is published?
A glass of something fizzy and relaxing! And still not thinking it’s real!
Questions on Books and About You
Firstly, the most important question, what books are currently ‘on your bedside table’?
Currently, I’m into romantasy! I LOVE mysteries though, and anything literary, so you never really know with me!
What children’s book would you suggest every adult read?
A Series of Unfortunate Events. Those books were AMAZING. And Roald Dahl.
What does your writing space look like?
I have a desk with a gaming chair at home where I can ‘escape’, but I’ll tend to take my laptop anywhere and type!
How many books do you think you own?
A LOT! I have lots on Kindle. However, with paperbacks, I love them, but once I feel done with them I donate them to charity shops so they never just sit there and go to waste. Ones I consider favourites, I keep, so I tend to have a small collection of paperbacks.
Who is your literary icon?
Jodi Picoult. She inspired me to write.
If you could own one rare/1st edition copy of a book, which would it be?
Possibly The Pact by Jodi Picoult – my favourite book ever. I’d also love Once Upon a Broken Heart, because those books are just…amazing and it’d be such a pretty thing to own!
Is there an author who you always read?
Jodi Picoult. I’ve mentioned her a lot!
And finally, are there any plans for any new books? If so, what teasers can you give us?
There are, I hope! I’m always writing, so you never know what I might release or hopefully publish!
Thank you Alex😊I agree with you on the Jodi Picoult front – I think I have 19 of her books currently.
Alexandra Orchard’s Books
Books By Your Bedside 