Author Q&A
Croeso i'r Holi ac Ateb
Demi Connor Author of 'At This Very Moment'
Author Demi Connor
Q & A based on her novel 'At This Very Moment'.
What inspired 'At This Very Moment'?
Honestly, it was very loosely inspired by parts of my life whilst also having theatrical aspects added to make it more interesting and engaging for the readers. For example the whole romantic aspect of the book is entirely made up, whilst the main character's struggle with mental health and her own image was taken from real emotions I had felt.
How long did it take to write?
The first half of the book I wrote over the course of around six months and the second half of the book I finished within weeks. However, re-edits were needed at a later date to correct past mistakes left within the original novel.
Which part was the hardest to write?
Some of the hardest parts for me to write were scenes where I had to let characters make decisions that readers may not agree with. As an author, you grow attached to your characters but part of telling a story that feels honest is allowing them to be flawed.
What messages do you hope people take from this book?
My main take away I hope people receive is that it's okay to not always be okay or perfect. This is not a tale of 'you will meet someone and feel magically better', it is about accepting yourself and only then can you give your love to someone else, someone who understands and appreciates every single part of you.
Why did you choose the title 'At This Very Moment'?
I had a few titles in mind but when I started the book that was my favourite choice. As time went on it just felt right to keep the name since some of the scenes were exactly how I felt in those moments.
Did any of the characters surprise you whilst writing the book?
Yes, I hadn't planned to make some characters make some bad choices until I felt as though I had to in order to show their flaws and prove that not everyone is perfect like most romance books depict them to be.
What kind of books do you like to read?
What does your writing process look like?
My favourite kind of books to read are usually contemporary romance, historical romance or fantasy.
I guess it depends on the book. General process is always have a notepad and pen at hand or my notes app, but if I'm working on more complex stories I need all of my notes and sketches at hand so that I can reference them as I go along, as well as my iPad for digital drawings, my laptop and a cup of tea.
Are you working on any new novels?
I am. I currently have two manuscripts written, one for a historical romance and another for a welsh inspired fantasy/romantasy. Hopefully published this year but if not definitely next year!
What advice would you give to other writers?
Re-read and edit many times, even though it is incredibly exciting to finish, there is nothing more disheartening than realising you've left in minor mistakes and having to contact editors to re-draft and re-publish.
Thank you for all of the ongoing support - stay tuned for updates :)