Frequently Asked Questions

Is Oliver Willerton's view of modern literature shared by you?

I certainly think that writing nowadays serves to 'jump through hoops' and pander to mainstream audiences. Many writers have to write a certain way, otherwise they won't be published. There's a rather bratty tone to Oliver's opinion, and sometimes he can preach or rant about the state of literature. But as we are finding out, he's a struggling author who is desperate for a break, he can be excused for being slightly bitter.

Why are you uploading the story in weekly installments?

Simply put, no-one would want to read something that is tens of thousands of words long all in one go. Hopefully, readers will enjoy each chapter and look forward to the next one. Plus, everyone needs something to brighten up a Monday right?

Where did you get the idea for the story?

I have had this idea for a long time now. Probably around three years. Barring a few tweaks here and there, it has always stayed the same, but only now am I committing myself to writing the whole thing.

It's kind of autobiographical in that I'm a writer, who, like Oliver Willerton, knows that making a living from writing is not an easy thing to do. Therefore, many of my hopes and concerns about this career path are contained within this story.

The description of the story is quite vague. Why is this?

One thing I cannot stand is having the first half of a story's plot being outlined on the blurb. It means that when the first couple of big events happen, you already anticipated them. Therefore, I thought I'd give away only a few details.

Do you have a plan in terms of what is going to happen in the end, or do you make it up as you go along?

I certainly have an outline which I will follow, with the main story archs already determined. But, I allow myself license to change a few details as I go along in the case that I think of any improvements. I have a rough idea, but not everything is set in concrete.