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Want to hook your reader with an atmospheric opening? Then this episode is for you!
Discover the nuanced process behind writing and publishing a historical gothic novella set in Victorian London with author A.A. Sekhon. From crafting atmospheric openings to navigating the publishing world, Ash shares valuable tips rooted in years of experience.
Resources & Links:
Waterstones - UK Bookstore
Amazon UK
Connect with Ash Sekhon:
Main Topics Covered:
Ash's unique writing process: balancing organic development and planning
Creating atmospheric, tension-filled gothic openings
The importance of historical accuracy and detailed research
Overcoming self-doubt and rejection in the publishing journey
The value of community, mentorship, and strategic publishing options
Practical advice for maintaining motivation during writer’s block
How revisions and understanding industry standards improve craft
In this episode:
Ash explains why they prefer starting drafts on paper and type up for editing (0:38)
Discussion on favourite gothic authors, including Poe, Stevenson, and Kafka (0:59)
The complex process of developing characters Richard and Henry (6:50)
Insights into writing a novel over two to three years alongside other commitments (8:23)
The significance of historical and cultural research, including Japanese societal observations (20:24)
How Ash’s personal history influences their Victorian setting and themes (17:07)
The importance of authenticity in language, spelling, and setting to maintain reader immersion (12:02)
Practical tips for handling rejection and embracing perseverance (23:49)
The strategic decision to choose specific publishing routes to retain rights (32:02)
Ash's advice for writers facing doubts, writer’s block, or industry barriers (36:18)
Visit Ascent Novel Prize for more or follow us on social media.
By Hayley KingWant to hook your reader with an atmospheric opening? Then this episode is for you!
Discover the nuanced process behind writing and publishing a historical gothic novella set in Victorian London with author A.A. Sekhon. From crafting atmospheric openings to navigating the publishing world, Ash shares valuable tips rooted in years of experience.
Resources & Links:
Waterstones - UK Bookstore
Amazon UK
Connect with Ash Sekhon:
Main Topics Covered:
Ash's unique writing process: balancing organic development and planning
Creating atmospheric, tension-filled gothic openings
The importance of historical accuracy and detailed research
Overcoming self-doubt and rejection in the publishing journey
The value of community, mentorship, and strategic publishing options
Practical advice for maintaining motivation during writer’s block
How revisions and understanding industry standards improve craft
In this episode:
Ash explains why they prefer starting drafts on paper and type up for editing (0:38)
Discussion on favourite gothic authors, including Poe, Stevenson, and Kafka (0:59)
The complex process of developing characters Richard and Henry (6:50)
Insights into writing a novel over two to three years alongside other commitments (8:23)
The significance of historical and cultural research, including Japanese societal observations (20:24)
How Ash’s personal history influences their Victorian setting and themes (17:07)
The importance of authenticity in language, spelling, and setting to maintain reader immersion (12:02)
Practical tips for handling rejection and embracing perseverance (23:49)
The strategic decision to choose specific publishing routes to retain rights (32:02)
Ash's advice for writers facing doubts, writer’s block, or industry barriers (36:18)
Visit Ascent Novel Prize for more or follow us on social media.