Question 1

John, you started writing at 70. What gave you the push?

Accepted Answer

Well, I suppose it had always been there in the back of my mind. I've always loved stories - grew up hearing them in pubs, at bus stops, around family dinners. But I'd convinced myself writing was for academics. Then,
after retirement, I had time. I sat down, typed out a scene from memory, and a character appeared. That became Gerry in 'The Removal Man'

Question 2

Your books are gritty, local, and packed with heart. Where do the stories come from?

Accepted Answer

From Liverpool. From people I've known, jobs I've had, places I've passed on the bus. Bombay Scouse, for example, came from chatting with an old neighbour whose parents came ove over from Mumbai. I love weaving everyday Scouse life into my stories - pubs, politics, family feuds. It's all there.

Question 3

What's your proudest moment so far?

Accepted Answer

Holding the first printed copy of A Matter of Revenge. I remember saying, "I didn't know I had it in me!" That, and my grandson telling his mates, "My grandad writes gangster books!"- that was a proud moment.

Question 4

How do readers respond to your characters?

Accepted Answer

I've had people come up to me at events and say, 'I know someone just like that!' I love that. I try to make my characters flawed, but real. People who've made mistakes, but you still root for them.

Question 5

Do you think being older gives you an edge as a writer?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. I've lived a bit. Seen things. Had my heart broken and put back together. That life experience bleeds into the pages. And I write for people like me not university professors, but ordinary readers who want a story that feels real.

Question 6

What's your writing routine like now?

Accepted Answer

I'm up early. Tea first. Then I write for a couple of hours in the morning before the world gets noisy. I treat it like a job. Discipline is key - even if you just get a few lines down, it builds up.

Question 7

What challenges have you faced breaking into publishing later in life?

Accepted Answer

I won't lie, it wasn't easy. I had to learn everything from scratch formatting, querying, marketing. But age gave me patience. I didn't expect instant success, which helped. And the indie community has been wonderfully supportive.

Question 8

What advice would you give to aspiring authors, especially older ones?

Accepted Answer

Start where you are. Don't worry if it's not perfect. And don't try to copy what's trendy - write what you'd love to read. Oh, and get feedback - my kids are my harshest critics!

Question 9

Are you planning a sixth novel?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. I'm working on it now. It's darker - more of a psychological thriller set during the 80s dock strikes. It's early days, but I think people will see a different side of my writing.

JOHN ONEILL

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