Current Time:
Archived Discussions
Posted bytony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 17:20:15
Hello from Edinburgh!
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Posted by barb (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:03:33
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Hello Tony!
I have previously enjoyed Lee Child's Jack Reacher and Jo Nesbo's Harry Hole. There seem to be quite a few star investigators in the book market now! How did you draw Gus Dury's character? What inspired you?
Thanks from Barbara.
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Hello Tony!
I have previously enjoyed Lee Child's Jack Reacher and Jo Nesbo's Harry Hole. There seem to be quite a few star investigators in the book market now! How did you draw Gus Dury's character? What inspired you?
Thanks from Barbara.
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:08:14
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Hi Barbara
Thanks for your question; you're right, too, there are stacks of great writers out there producing serial characters. I must admit, I don't read that many of them, but I am a huuuuuuge Ken Bruen fan; I think his Guards series is about the best there is going right now....now to answer your question, I wanted to make Gus a hack because it seemed like a good qualification for the investigative work and it was something a little different from the out-and-out PI or ex-army, ex-cop line....
Tony
Originally posted by barb
Hello Tony!
I have previously enjoyed Lee Child's Jack Reacher and Jo Nesbo's Harry Hole. There seem to be quite a few star investigators in the book market now! How did you draw Gus Dury's character? What inspired you?
Thanks from Barbara.
Hello Tony!
I have previously enjoyed Lee Child's Jack Reacher and Jo Nesbo's Harry Hole. There seem to be quite a few star investigators in the book market now! How did you draw Gus Dury's character? What inspired you?
Thanks from Barbara.
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Hi Barbara
Thanks for your question; you're right, too, there are stacks of great writers out there producing serial characters. I must admit, I don't read that many of them, but I am a huuuuuuge Ken Bruen fan; I think his Guards series is about the best there is going right now....now to answer your question, I wanted to make Gus a hack because it seemed like a good qualification for the investigative work and it was something a little different from the out-and-out PI or ex-army, ex-cop line....
Tony
Posted by geoff (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:09:59
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Hi!
I would like to know: When did you start thinking about writing a book? Is this something you had always intended to do whilst writing for newspapers?
Best wishes from Geoff
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Hi!
I would like to know: When did you start thinking about writing a book? Is this something you had always intended to do whilst writing for newspapers?
Best wishes from Geoff
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:12:43
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Hello Geoff........
The writing started long before the 'hackwork'! I kind of fell into journalism because it was about all I could do!! But, the writing of novels was something that was an ambition since I was a nipper. I did try to write a few 'practice' novels before Paying Fot It sold, tho'......
Tony.
Originally posted by geoff
Hi!
I would like to know: When did you start thinking about writing a book? Is this something you had always intended to do whilst writing for newspapers?
Best wishes from Geoff
Hi!
I would like to know: When did you start thinking about writing a book? Is this something you had always intended to do whilst writing for newspapers?
Best wishes from Geoff
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Hello Geoff........
The writing started long before the 'hackwork'! I kind of fell into journalism because it was about all I could do!! But, the writing of novels was something that was an ambition since I was a nipper. I did try to write a few 'practice' novels before Paying Fot It sold, tho'......
Tony.
Posted by barb (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:14:06
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Thank you! Interesting to find out that you don't read that many of serial investigators. Do you think this helped you creating Gus, as your mind was free of any pre-set characteristics?
Originally posted by tony black
Hi Barbara
Thanks for your question; you're right, too, there are stacks of great writers out there producing serial characters. I must admit, I don't read that many of them, but I am a huuuuuuge Ken Bruen fan; I think his Guards series is about the best there is going right now....now to answer your question, I wanted to make Gus a hack because it seemed like a good qualification for the investigative work and it was something a little different from the out-and-out PI or ex-army, ex-cop line....
Tony
Hi Barbara
Thanks for your question; you're right, too, there are stacks of great writers out there producing serial characters. I must admit, I don't read that many of them, but I am a huuuuuuge Ken Bruen fan; I think his Guards series is about the best there is going right now....now to answer your question, I wanted to make Gus a hack because it seemed like a good qualification for the investigative work and it was something a little different from the out-and-out PI or ex-army, ex-cop line....
Tony
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Thank you! Interesting to find out that you don't read that many of serial investigators. Do you think this helped you creating Gus, as your mind was free of any pre-set characteristics?
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:15:52
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Hi again, Barbara
Maybe...but then again maybe I SHOULD have read a few more, I guess the readers like you will be the best judge!
Tony.
Originally posted by barb
Thank you! Interesting to find out that you don't read that many of serial investigators. Do you think this helped you creating Gus, as your mind was free of any pre-set characteristics?
Thank you! Interesting to find out that you don't read that many of serial investigators. Do you think this helped you creating Gus, as your mind was free of any pre-set characteristics?
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Hi again, Barbara
Maybe...but then again maybe I SHOULD have read a few more, I guess the readers like you will be the best judge!
Tony.
Posted by shelton (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:20:50
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Hi everyone - just dropping in here... I did like the character, but also like the setting: Edinburgh! Do you think you could have set your stories in another city, or was Edinburgh the obvious choice since you live there?
Originally posted by tony black
Hi again, Barbara
Maybe...but then again maybe I SHOULD have read a few more, I guess the readers like you will be the best judge!
Tony.
Hi again, Barbara
Maybe...but then again maybe I SHOULD have read a few more, I guess the readers like you will be the best judge!
Tony.
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Hi everyone - just dropping in here... I did like the character, but also like the setting: Edinburgh! Do you think you could have set your stories in another city, or was Edinburgh the obvious choice since you live there?
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:24:08
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Well, Edinburgh was the obvious choice for the novels I've written so far....the character is also, very much, a part of the wider city...Gus lives and breathes Edinburgh. But, I do think I could set the series elsewhere. I did toy with the idea of moving it to Melbourne or the Costa del Crime at one stage but there is, of course, the downside: I'd lose the 'character' of Edinburgh and I'd lose the people Gus has surrounded himself with....what do you think? Would you like to see Gus go somewhere new, or are you quite happy with Edinburgh as a setting?
Tony.
Originally posted by shelton
Hi everyone - just dropping in here... I did like the character, but also like the setting: Edinburgh! Do you think you could have set your stories in another city, or was Edinburgh the obvious choice since you live there?
Hi everyone - just dropping in here... I did like the character, but also like the setting: Edinburgh! Do you think you could have set your stories in another city, or was Edinburgh the obvious choice since you live there?
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Well, Edinburgh was the obvious choice for the novels I've written so far....the character is also, very much, a part of the wider city...Gus lives and breathes Edinburgh. But, I do think I could set the series elsewhere. I did toy with the idea of moving it to Melbourne or the Costa del Crime at one stage but there is, of course, the downside: I'd lose the 'character' of Edinburgh and I'd lose the people Gus has surrounded himself with....what do you think? Would you like to see Gus go somewhere new, or are you quite happy with Edinburgh as a setting?
Tony.
Posted by jenn (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:28:51
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
I would like him to continue investigating in Edinburgh: I think the setting added something special, something extra. Maybe an escape to another area will be interesting after 5 or so books. We've just familiarised ourselves with Gus and his surroundings and wouldn't want to switch so soon again. I think we would feel less close to the character if the setting changed quite soon. That's me :)
Originally posted by tony black
Well, Edinburgh was the obvious choice for the novels I've written so far....the character is also, very much, a part of the wider city...Gus lives and breathes Edinburgh. But, I do think I could set the series elsewhere. I did toy with the idea of moving it to Melbourne or the Costa del Crime at one stage but there is, of course, the downside: I'd lose the 'character' of Edinburgh and I'd lose the people Gus has surrounded himself with....what do you think? Would you like to see Gus go somewhere new, or are you quite happy with Edinburgh as a setting?
Tony.
Well, Edinburgh was the obvious choice for the novels I've written so far....the character is also, very much, a part of the wider city...Gus lives and breathes Edinburgh. But, I do think I could set the series elsewhere. I did toy with the idea of moving it to Melbourne or the Costa del Crime at one stage but there is, of course, the downside: I'd lose the 'character' of Edinburgh and I'd lose the people Gus has surrounded himself with....what do you think? Would you like to see Gus go somewhere new, or are you quite happy with Edinburgh as a setting?
Tony.
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I would like him to continue investigating in Edinburgh: I think the setting added something special, something extra. Maybe an escape to another area will be interesting after 5 or so books. We've just familiarised ourselves with Gus and his surroundings and wouldn't want to switch so soon again. I think we would feel less close to the character if the setting changed quite soon. That's me :)
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:30:48
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
You make a good point...I think he's probably best to stay settled in the one place for a wee while. Though, I'm just about to start writing the fourth one, called LONG TIME DEAD, and the third one, LOSS, is out in February so that's four in Edinburgh anyway....
Originally posted by jenn
I would like him to continue investigating in Edinburgh: I think the setting added something special, something extra. Maybe an escape to another area will be interesting after 5 or so books. We've just familiarised ourselves with Gus and his surroundings and wouldn't want to switch so soon again. I think we would feel less close to the character if the setting changed quite soon. That's me :)
I would like him to continue investigating in Edinburgh: I think the setting added something special, something extra. Maybe an escape to another area will be interesting after 5 or so books. We've just familiarised ourselves with Gus and his surroundings and wouldn't want to switch so soon again. I think we would feel less close to the character if the setting changed quite soon. That's me :)
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
You make a good point...I think he's probably best to stay settled in the one place for a wee while. Though, I'm just about to start writing the fourth one, called LONG TIME DEAD, and the third one, LOSS, is out in February so that's four in Edinburgh anyway....
Posted by geoff (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:32:50
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Yes, I agree, your stories should be kept in Edinburgh for now. I'm also thinking of movies/tv series which are set in a familiar area - once the characters wander off somewhere else, it's hard to beat the original setting and I'm often disappointed. Melbourne? Does this have to do with your Australian origins?
Originally posted by jenn
I would like him to continue investigating in Edinburgh: I think the setting added something special, something extra. Maybe an escape to another area will be interesting after 5 or so books. We've just familiarised ourselves with Gus and his surroundings and wouldn't want to switch so soon again. I think we would feel less close to the character if the setting changed quite soon. That's me :)
I would like him to continue investigating in Edinburgh: I think the setting added something special, something extra. Maybe an escape to another area will be interesting after 5 or so books. We've just familiarised ourselves with Gus and his surroundings and wouldn't want to switch so soon again. I think we would feel less close to the character if the setting changed quite soon. That's me :)
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Yes, I agree, your stories should be kept in Edinburgh for now. I'm also thinking of movies/tv series which are set in a familiar area - once the characters wander off somewhere else, it's hard to beat the original setting and I'm often disappointed. Melbourne? Does this have to do with your Australian origins?
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:35:26
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Okay, Edinburgh it is then. It had been suggested I could move him about but I think it's a big ask given Embra plays such a leading role in the books. The Melbourne thing was to tie in a sub-plot about a long-lost brother but I ditched that anyway....oh, and I thought Gus might benefit from some sun...should have made it the Gold Coast, really!! (I do love Australia tho').......
Originally posted by geoff
Yes, I agree, your stories should be kept in Edinburgh for now. I'm also thinking of movies/tv series which are set in a familiar area - once the characters wander off somewhere else, it's hard to beat the original setting and I'm often disappointed. Melbourne? Does this have to do with your Australian origins?
Yes, I agree, your stories should be kept in Edinburgh for now. I'm also thinking of movies/tv series which are set in a familiar area - once the characters wander off somewhere else, it's hard to beat the original setting and I'm often disappointed. Melbourne? Does this have to do with your Australian origins?
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Okay, Edinburgh it is then. It had been suggested I could move him about but I think it's a big ask given Embra plays such a leading role in the books. The Melbourne thing was to tie in a sub-plot about a long-lost brother but I ditched that anyway....oh, and I thought Gus might benefit from some sun...should have made it the Gold Coast, really!! (I do love Australia tho').......
Posted by rosemary (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:38:57
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Aha - I was about to ask if you had started writing your third novel (just got Gutted :))
In your first books you touch on people-trafficing, illegal dogfights - do you sometimes get inspiration from your news world? Thank you!
Originally posted by tony black
You make a good point...I think he's probably best to stay settled in the one place for a wee while. Though, I'm just about to start writing the fourth one, called LONG TIME DEAD, and the third one, LOSS, is out in February so that's four in Edinburgh anyway....
You make a good point...I think he's probably best to stay settled in the one place for a wee while. Though, I'm just about to start writing the fourth one, called LONG TIME DEAD, and the third one, LOSS, is out in February so that's four in Edinburgh anyway....
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Aha - I was about to ask if you had started writing your third novel (just got Gutted :))
In your first books you touch on people-trafficing, illegal dogfights - do you sometimes get inspiration from your news world? Thank you!
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:41:54
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Yes, very much so ... I still work part-time as a hack and I see a lot of the same hard-news coming around, it's inevitable that it finds its way into the books. That certainly happened with Gutted....we'd had a run of dog-fighting stories and badger baiting investigations....it seemed like an unusual world to explore, there were some great possibilities for Gus to get into trouble....!
Originally posted by rosemary
Aha - I was about to ask if you had started writing your third novel (just got Gutted :))
In your first books you touch on people-trafficing, illegal dogfights - do you sometimes get inspiration from your news world? Thank you!
Aha - I was about to ask if you had started writing your third novel (just got Gutted :))
In your first books you touch on people-trafficing, illegal dogfights - do you sometimes get inspiration from your news world? Thank you!
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Yes, very much so ... I still work part-time as a hack and I see a lot of the same hard-news coming around, it's inevitable that it finds its way into the books. That certainly happened with Gutted....we'd had a run of dog-fighting stories and badger baiting investigations....it seemed like an unusual world to explore, there were some great possibilities for Gus to get into trouble....!
Posted by tracy (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:46:42
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
May I compliment you on your first book! I was hooked from the beginning. Right from the start Gus felt like a close character. I don't like books where it takes a few chapters to get familiar with a character or with a story. Guess I speak for most of us?!
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
May I compliment you on your first book! I was hooked from the beginning. Right from the start Gus felt like a close character. I don't like books where it takes a few chapters to get familiar with a character or with a story. Guess I speak for most of us?!
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:48:56
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Thank-you very much Tracy......
Gus is such an easy character to write...he's such a walking disaster! I quite often get asked if he's a hero or an anti-hero and to be honest I don't know...he's a bit of both, I guess. I like to describe him as a reluctant investigator and an enthusiastic alcoholic!! haha
Tony.
Originally posted by tracy
May I compliment you on your first book! I was hooked from the beginning. Right from the start Gus felt like a close character. I don't like books where it takes a few chapters to get familiar with a character or with a story. Guess I speak for most of us?!
May I compliment you on your first book! I was hooked from the beginning. Right from the start Gus felt like a close character. I don't like books where it takes a few chapters to get familiar with a character or with a story. Guess I speak for most of us?!
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Thank-you very much Tracy......
Gus is such an easy character to write...he's such a walking disaster! I quite often get asked if he's a hero or an anti-hero and to be honest I don't know...he's a bit of both, I guess. I like to describe him as a reluctant investigator and an enthusiastic alcoholic!! haha
Tony.
Posted by Andy Templar (Reader) from A library somewhere..on 3-8-2009 at 19:50:57
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Hi Tony,
what was the most difficult character you found to write? I can imagine Nadja must have given you some problems? Also, the humour is very very black, do you think that's vital in a story dealing with some pretty grim issues?
thanks!
Originally posted by tony black
Thank-you very much Tracy......
Gus is such an easy character to write...he's such a walking disaster! I quite often get asked if he's a hero or an anti-hero and to be honest I don't know...he's a bit of both, I guess. I like to describe him as a reluctant investigator and an enthusiastic alcoholic!! haha
Tony.
Thank-you very much Tracy......
Gus is such an easy character to write...he's such a walking disaster! I quite often get asked if he's a hero or an anti-hero and to be honest I don't know...he's a bit of both, I guess. I like to describe him as a reluctant investigator and an enthusiastic alcoholic!! haha
Tony.
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Hi Tony,
what was the most difficult character you found to write? I can imagine Nadja must have given you some problems? Also, the humour is very very black, do you think that's vital in a story dealing with some pretty grim issues?
thanks!
Posted by tracy (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:51:48
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
I also felt like tapping right into the story! Gus's personal conflict made him quite human, quite close. Though sometimes you felt sorry for him, sometimes him finding solace in the bars felt unsettling. But I guess this just added to his character!
Originally posted by tracy
May I compliment you on your first book! I was hooked from the beginning. Right from the start Gus felt like a close character. I don't like books where it takes a few chapters to get familiar with a character or with a story. Guess I speak for most of us?!
May I compliment you on your first book! I was hooked from the beginning. Right from the start Gus felt like a close character. I don't like books where it takes a few chapters to get familiar with a character or with a story. Guess I speak for most of us?!
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I also felt like tapping right into the story! Gus's personal conflict made him quite human, quite close. Though sometimes you felt sorry for him, sometimes him finding solace in the bars felt unsettling. But I guess this just added to his character!
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:56:35
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
The big characters like Nadja and Benny actually write themselves....they play very loudly in my imagination and I just write them down. The more complex ones like Mac are difficult, he's a psycho who's trying to keep a lid on things, go straight, but he can only keep calm for so long....it's when to let him go off on one that's the tricky bit.
The humour is very dark because that's us Scots! I blame the rain...It's some kind of built-in coping mechanism that's evolved into a finely-tuned 'patter' ... it's also perfect for a crime novel, because the dark stuff always looks darker when there's some shards of light scattered about.
Originally posted by Andy Templar
Hi Tony,
what was the most difficult character you found to write? I can imagine Nadja must have given you some problems? Also, the humour is very very black, do you think that's vital in a story dealing with some pretty grim issues?
thanks!
Hi Tony,
what was the most difficult character you found to write? I can imagine Nadja must have given you some problems? Also, the humour is very very black, do you think that's vital in a story dealing with some pretty grim issues?
thanks!
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
The big characters like Nadja and Benny actually write themselves....they play very loudly in my imagination and I just write them down. The more complex ones like Mac are difficult, he's a psycho who's trying to keep a lid on things, go straight, but he can only keep calm for so long....it's when to let him go off on one that's the tricky bit.
The humour is very dark because that's us Scots! I blame the rain...It's some kind of built-in coping mechanism that's evolved into a finely-tuned 'patter' ... it's also perfect for a crime novel, because the dark stuff always looks darker when there's some shards of light scattered about.
Posted by barb (Reader) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 19:57:41
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
That's a funny way of putting it "reluctant investigator and enthusiastic alcoholic"! As a reader I sometimes want the main character to be "perfect" and the drinking gets in the way every now and then. But taking the characterstic off, you realize how boring the character would be. I think you did a great job building a character with all his strengths and weaknesses.
Originally posted by tony black
Thank-you very much Tracy......
Gus is such an easy character to write...he's such a walking disaster! I quite often get asked if he's a hero or an anti-hero and to be honest I don't know...he's a bit of both, I guess. I like to describe him as a reluctant investigator and an enthusiastic alcoholic!! haha
Tony.
Thank-you very much Tracy......
Gus is such an easy character to write...he's such a walking disaster! I quite often get asked if he's a hero or an anti-hero and to be honest I don't know...he's a bit of both, I guess. I like to describe him as a reluctant investigator and an enthusiastic alcoholic!! haha
Tony.
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
That's a funny way of putting it "reluctant investigator and enthusiastic alcoholic"! As a reader I sometimes want the main character to be "perfect" and the drinking gets in the way every now and then. But taking the characterstic off, you realize how boring the character would be. I think you did a great job building a character with all his strengths and weaknesses.
Posted by Nicole (Administrator) from Random House Group Digitalon 3-8-2009 at 20:00:30
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Hello, Nicole here from Random House! I'm afraid our time is up soon and I would like to say a HUGE thank you for Tony to take the time to chat to our library tonight. Thank you also for your questions! Have a nice evening all - Penistone Library will probably continue to discuss offline!?
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Hello, Nicole here from Random House! I'm afraid our time is up soon and I would like to say a HUGE thank you for Tony to take the time to chat to our library tonight. Thank you also for your questions! Have a nice evening all - Penistone Library will probably continue to discuss offline!?
Posted by tony black (Author) from ...on 3-8-2009 at 20:00:40
re: Hello from Edinburgh!
Thanks very much....
I think it's important to mix a few flaws in, none of us are perfect, and we often sympathise a fair bit with those that are most flawed. Gus's flaws, his alcoholism and his familial grief are all great Noir teritory to explore too, fascinating for a writer.
Originally posted by barb
That's a funny way of putting it "reluctant investigator and enthusiastic alcoholic"! As a reader I sometimes want the main character to be "perfect" and the drinking gets in the way every now and then. But taking the characterstic off, you realize how boring the character would be. I think you did a great job building a character with all his strengths and weaknesses.
That's a funny way of putting it "reluctant investigator and enthusiastic alcoholic"! As a reader I sometimes want the main character to be "perfect" and the drinking gets in the way every now and then. But taking the characterstic off, you realize how boring the character would be. I think you did a great job building a character with all his strengths and weaknesses.
Originally posted by tony black
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about Paying for It. This is a strange situation for a writer to be in: after months and years of working almost entirely on my own on the novel, now it’s out there for everyone to read and interpret in their own way! I’m really interested to hear your responses: what did you all think of Gus Dury as a character, and his first case? What did you like, what didn’t you like? All opinions and questions welcome.
Thanks very much....
I think it's important to mix a few flaws in, none of us are perfect, and we often sympathise a fair bit with those that are most flawed. Gus's flaws, his alcoholism and his familial grief are all great Noir teritory to explore too, fascinating for a writer.
