Enter the captivating world of indie crime fiction with Ian Robinson, a hybrid-published author whose talent shines through in this exclusive interview. Ian shares his insights on maintaining productivity in the world of crime fiction, emphasizing the importance of staying in the story’s flow. Discover his unique strategies to conquer writer’s block and how leaving a story at a strategic point can unlock new creative pathways. Ian’s experience reveals the harsh realities of the writing industry, tempered by the joy of connecting with readers. Join us as he unveils the literary influences that shaped his craft, his most cherished work, “How the Wired Weep,” and his latest release, “Evidence Pool.”
What strategies do you use to maintain productivity and stay motivated when writing?
This is an interesting question to explore. There’s a wealth of advice about what a writer should do, my take is that it depends on the individual, the time and space they have to write, and what their main motivation is for writing. I don’t plan my books so it’s helpful for me to write daily to keep the momentum going and stay with the characters and storyline. This is important in crime fiction, as you can literally lose the plot if you don’t stay in the story. Structure falls away leaving gaping holes you don’t need to fill. I would also suggest focussing on one novel at a time. It’s tempting to start one, get another idea and go with that at the same time. For me, this only leads to confusing your voice in each story.
Can you tell us about a time when you had to overcome writer’s block? What worked for you?
I will always leave the book at a point where I know I can pick up the story the next day. I’ll leave the work with a short note about how it will continue. This works for me. I start again from a strong point and sleeping on the concept can also add new pathways I hadn’t considered.
What are some lessons you’ve learned about the writing industry that you wish you knew when you started?
The industry is brutal. The market is saturated, and the value of books has dropped to a point where making a living from it is tough. There are days I feel I’m chasing an algorithm rather than creating anything of value. That said, I’m always encouraged by seeing my ratings go up and maintain a high overall rating. It brings me pleasure to know there are people enjoying my work and getting pleasure from the time spent with my novels. Our time is precious, so spending it with something we value is everything.
Who are some authors that have greatly influenced your writing and why?
Ed McBain, Cormac McCarthy, and Chuck Palahniuk have all influenced my writing. They carry a unique approach to their genres, and this comes across on the page.
Can you tell us about a book that significantly impacted your life and your decision to become an author?
Cormac McCarthy’s, The Road, was the book for me. His writing is evocative, and he demonstrates character driven story telling at its best. He was asked by a critic what the apocalyptic event was that caused the father and son to be on the road. His answer was superb, “It’s irrelevant what the event was, the question is what do they do now?” I try and bear this in mind when I write so I stay with the character(s) and let their arc develop.
How has your background (cultural, geographical, professional, etc.) influenced your writing style and the stories you choose to tell?
I was a DS in the Met Police where I investigated the murder of children as well as engaging in covert work for my last seven years of service. All my work is fiction, but I hope the realism of the operational policing side comes across on the page.
What of your book(s) are you the most proudest of, and why?
How the Wired Weep is the book I self-published as I wanted agency with this novel. This is a story I loved writing. The characters and storyline cross boundaries of crime and what it means to be human. A tale of life and loss told from the perspective of a source handler and their source.
What is your most recent book and/or what are you working on currently?
Evidence Pool is my latest book published by The Book Folks. This is number four in a series. If readers want to try the first three, there’s a boxset on Kindle called London Crimes that has them. It’s on offer for 99p.
Is there a book project you have in mind that you plan to write one day? If so, can you tell us a little bit about it?
I keep all projects under wraps until I’m ready to send them off to my agent or publisher.
You can find Ian Robinson on his web site, or on Twitter.
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