Inside the Mind - Andrew Hixson

At the age of eight, the world is a kaleidoscope of colour, possibility, and stories waiting to be told. What, then, could inspire a child to pick up a pen and begin weaving worlds from words? The answer lies in the gentle collision of curiosity, wonder, and the magic of discovery. I grew up in the UK in the sixties, where television became the norm for every household, and Doctor Who and James Bond became icons and England won the World Cup. For many young writers, inspiration comes like a sudden ray of sunlight through the clouds—bright, unexpected, and impossible to ignore. Perhaps it was the first time you opened a storybook and felt the pages come alive in your hands, the characters whispering secrets only you could hear. Or maybe it was a bedtime tale spun by a loved one, each word kindling a longing to tell stories of your own. At eight, the imagination runs wild and free. Dragons might slumber beneath your bed, and secret doorways could open in the most ordinary places. The desire to capture these hidden worlds, to shape them and share them, becomes a powerful call. Writing, then, is both a vessel and an adventure—one where you are the explorer and the mapmaker. Sometimes, inspiration is found in the small, shimmering moments of everyday life: the laughter of friends on a playground, the quiet of a rainy afternoon, or the first snowfall of the year. These moments beg to be remembered, and writing offers a way to keep them forever. The spark might also come from those around you—a teacher who praised your way with words, a parent who filled your shelves with books, or a sibling who listened, wide-eyed, to your tales. Their encouragement becomes the wind beneath your wings, helping you soar above self-doubt. Above all, writing at eight can be about finding your place in the universe. Each story is a declaration: I am here, I have something to say, and my voice matters. In the act of creation, you discover not only the stories you wish to tell, but the storyteller within. In the end, what inspired you to start writing at the age of eight was a blend of magic and meaning, of fleeting moments and timeless dreams. With every word, you built a bridge between your heart and the world—a bridge you would cross again and again, for years to come.

A former military intelligence officer in a quiet English village is drawn back into a covert investigation following the mysterious crash of a German zeppelin at Orford Ness, uncovering secrets of espionage, a hidden murder, and community tensions entwined with the war's shadow.

The year 1915 stands as a pivotal moment in history. The world was in the throes of World War I, societies were undergoing seismic shifts, and technology was racing forward at unprecedented speed. To create compelling characters set in this era, a writer must weave together the threads of historical authenticity, cultural nuance, and vivid individual detail. This guide explores how to construct memorable, believable characters who could have plausibly inhabited the world of 1915. Before you begin drawing your cast, immerse yourself in the world of 1915. This was a year defined by global conflict, political change, and new societal roles. The First World War, already raging for a year, permeated daily life in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Even in countries not directly involved in combat, such as the United States, the ripples of war affected economics, politics, and social attitudes.

In between visiting my Mother-in-Law in a carehome and other activities like gardening, I try to fit in four hours a day.

For those who have ever dreamed of spinning worlds with words, being an indie author offers a journey as unpredictable as it is exhilarating. While the road is often paved with challenges—self-doubt, marketing hurdles, and the ever-present spectre of rejection—the rewards are profound and deeply personal. The most rewarding part of being an indie author is, above all else, the freedom to create and connect, to shape stories that matter to you, and to see them resonate with readers across the globe. Indie authorship is synonymous with creative independence. Without the constraints of traditional publishing houses, writers can craft narratives that defy convention, explore niche genres, and experiment with style and form. There is no editorial board dictating what stories are "marketable", nor any gatekeepers steering the narrative to fit current trends. This autonomy allows for authenticity; every page breathes with the voice of the author, unfiltered and uncompromised. The act of writing, then, becomes a dialogue between author and imagination—a space where ideas flourish, and risks can be taken. Whether it's a fantasy saga with unconventional heroes or a memoir that bares the soul, indie authors have the latitude to pursue their deepest creative impulses. This freedom is a rare and precious gift, and for many, it is the heart of what makes the indie path so rewarding.

One of the most profound challenges I have faced on my writing journey is discovering and refining my own authentic voice. In the vast landscape of literature and digital content, it’s all too easy to be influenced, consciously or unconsciously, by admired authors, trending styles, or external expectations. Early in my journey, I often found my words echoing the cadence of others, sometimes losing the subtle inflections that made my writing uniquely mine. The process of overcoming this challenge involved deliberate practice and a willingness to experiment. I read widely, yes, but I also forced myself to write in styles that felt uncomfortable or unfamiliar, eventually stripping away borrowed tones and structures to reveal something that resonated as genuinely mine. There were moments of uncertainty, drafts abandoned halfway, and the lingering question of whether my voice would ever feel “enough.” Over time, I realised that authenticity in writing is not a fixed destination but rather an evolving process, a balance between inspiration from others and the courage to trust my own perspective. Embracing this challenge has not only enriched my writing but also deepened my relationship with words, transforming each new piece into both an exploration and an affirmation of who I am as a writer.

Recommended Writing Tools and Apps Enhance Your Creative Process Whether you're penning poetry at dawn or drafting a novel late into the night, the right writing tools can make all the difference. While I don't have personal favourites, I can certainly recommend a few beloved by writers around the world: Scrivener — Renowned for its organisational prowess, Scrivener is perfect for novelists, screenwriters, and anyone tackling lengthy manuscripts. Its corkboard, outlining features, and research folders help keep sprawling projects tidy and accessible. Grammarly — Like having an ever-vigilant editor by your side, Grammarly checks for grammar, style, tone, and even plagiarism. It’s invaluable for writers seeking clarity and polish in every sentence. Hemingway Editor — This app shines a spotlight on overly complex sentences and passive voice. For those who crave bold, clear prose, Hemingway Editor offers concise feedback at the touch of a button. Notion — Beyond just writing, Notion allows you to organise notes, outlines, and research. Its flexibility makes it a favourite for writers who love to customise their workspace. Google Docs — The simplicity and collaborative features of Google Docs make it a staple for writers working with editors, co-authors, or beta readers. Cloud-based autosaving is a blessing for the forgetful (or the unlucky). Ulysses — Especially popular among Mac users, Ulysses offers a clean, distraction-free writing environment combined with powerful organisational tools and seamless export options. Of course, your perfect tool depends on your unique workflow and preferences. Some writers remain loyal to classic pen and paper, while others embrace the latest digital innovations. The key is to find what helps your creativity flourish and makes the writing process a true delight.

Embarking on the path of indie publishing is both exhilarating and daunting. The freedom to craft your own stories, shape your brand, and connect directly with readers is matched by the responsibility for every facet of your book’s creation and promotion. For many, the indie route offers the promise of creative autonomy and entrepreneurial opportunity, but it also demands a keen understanding of the literary marketplace and the tenacity to weather its many ups and downs. Here, then, is a guide for new and aspiring indie authors—a tapestry of practical advice, hard-won lessons, and encouragement for those who dream of seeing their stories in the hands of readers. The bedrock of any author’s journey—indie or otherwise—is the craft itself. Write as often as possible. Set aside time daily, if you can, and treat your writing as both art and discipline. Accept that your first draft will rarely be your best; embrace rewriting, polishing, and reimagining your words. Consider studying the basics of story structure, character development, pacing, and dialogue. Read widely, both within and beyond your chosen genre, and observe what makes certain stories sing. Take notes, experiment, and never shy away from learning. No writer can see their own work with perfect clarity. Beta readers, critique partners, or writing groups can offer invaluable perspectives, catching plot holes, character inconsistencies, and stylistic quirks you may have missed. Welcome constructive criticism, and learn to separate your ego from your manuscript. Ultimately, your goal is not only to tell your story, but to tell it well. Indie publishing does not mean you must do everything alone. In fact, some tasks are best left to professionals. Editing, for example, is crucial—typos, grammatical errors, and poor structure can undermine even the most brilliant story. There are several types of editing: developmental (big-picture feedback), line editing (sentence-level refinement), and copy editing (grammar, punctuation, consistency). Consider investing in at least one. Equally important is cover design. Readers do judge books by their covers, and a professional, genre-appropriate design can mean the difference between a book that is picked up and one that is passed over. Your cover should communicate the tone, genre, and promise of your story. If you have graphic design skills, this may be a rewarding DIY project; if not, hire a designer whose portfolio speaks to your aesthetic. Formatting your manuscript for both print and digital publication is a technical but essential skill. There are numerous resources and tools—Vellum, Scrivener, and Calibre, to name a few—that can streamline this process. Understand the requirements for each platform (Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, Kobo, etc.), as they may differ. Pay attention to details: font choices, chapter headings, margins, and front/back matter. A well-formatted book enhances readability and professionalism. As an indie author, you have a wealth of options for publishing and distributing your work. Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) dominates the market, but don’t overlook alternatives like Draft2Digital, Smashwords, or even direct sales via your own website. Each platform has its own terms, royalty rates, and reach. Consider whether you want to enroll in programs like Kindle Unlimited (which requires exclusivity) or “go wide” by distributing to multiple retailers. Print-on-demand services (CreateSpace, IngramSpark, etc.) allow you to offer physical copies without upfront inventory costs. Research your options, weigh the pros and cons, and make informed choices based on your goals and resources. Writing the book is only the beginning. Getting it into the hands of readers requires strategic, persistent marketing. Build a website and author platform early; even before your book is published, begin cultivating an audience. Use social media to connect with readers, fellow authors, and influencers within your genre. Consider starting a newsletter, offering readers behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive content, or free stories. Your mailing list is one of your most powerful tools for building long-term engagement. Run promotions such as free or discounted launches, participate in online book tours, and submit your book to review blogs. Consider paid advertising cautiously—test small budgets on Facebook, Instagram, or Amazon ads, and adjust based on performance. Focus on authentic connection rather than hard selling. Indie publishing thrives on community. Attend conferences, join online forums, and participate in genre-specific organizations. Learn from those who have walked this path before you. Share knowledge, celebrate successes, and offer support when challenges arise. Collaboration and camaraderie can be sources of inspiration and practical help. Success in indie publishing is rarely overnight. You may not hit bestseller lists with your first book, and that’s perfectly normal. Set achievable goals—for writing, publishing, and marketing—and measure your progress. Celebrate small wins. Remember that every published book, every new reader, and every positive review is a step forward. Indie authors often invest their own money in editing, design, and marketing. Plan your budget carefully, and be wary of any service that promises guaranteed success for a fee. There are many reputable professionals, but also some predatory firms. Seek recommendations, do your research, and protect your creative investment. Register your copyright and educate yourself about contracts, ISBNs, and the legal side of publishing. You are not just an author, but a business. Your intellectual property is valuable; treat it as such. Consider reserving your domain name and social media handles early, and keep your branding consistent. The publishing industry is constantly evolving. Algorithms, trends, and reader tastes shift. Stay curious, be willing to pivot, and remain open to new opportunities. Indie authorship is a marathon, not a sprint. Amidst the deadlines, edits, and marketing plans, don’t lose sight of your original passion. Write the stories you love. Cherish each word, each idea, each moment of inspiration. The journey is yours—unique, unpredictable, and filled with possibilities. • Write with authenticity and dedication. • Invest in professional editing and design. • Learn the technical side of book production. • Understand your publishing options. • Adopt a strategic, long-term approach to marketing. • Set reasonable, achievable goals. • Protect your creative rights. • Foster adaptability and resilience. • Stay connected to your passion and purpose. The world of indie publishing welcomes those willing to learn, grow, and persevere. Your story deserves to be told—and read. Take the leap, equip yourself with knowledge and determination, and join a vibrant community of creators who are reshaping the literary landscape, one word at a time.

Navigating the world of independent publishing is a journey of both creativity and strategy. While writing the book itself is a remarkable achievement, promoting it as an indie author presents a distinct set of challenges and opportunities. Unlike traditionally published authors who often have access to established marketing channels, indie authors must craft their own path to visibility. Success hinges not only on the quality of the book but also on a clear understanding of target audiences, persistent self-promotion, and a willingness to experiment with new methods. The cornerstone of effective promotion is knowing whom you are trying to reach. Indie authors should begin by identifying their ideal readers. Consider questions such as: What genres do they enjoy? Where do they spend time online? What motivates them to buy a book? • Research similar books and authors: Study the communities that support books similar to yours, and observe how those authors engage their audience. • Build reader personas: Create detailed profiles of your target readers, including age, location, interests, and purchasing habits. • Engage in reader communities: Participate in online forums, Facebook groups, and social media hashtags related to your genre. Listen to readers' conversations to learn about their preferences. Visibility is key, and establishing an author platform is central to long-term success. Your platform should be both professional and approachable, serving as a hub for readers, media, and collaborators. • Author website: Develop a dedicated website with your biography, book information, reviews, blog posts, and contact details. Optimize it for search engines (SEO) so readers can easily find you. • Email newsletter: Collect email addresses from interested readers and send regular updates. Newsletters are powerful for announcing new releases, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, and building a loyal following. • Social media presence: Choose platforms where your target audience is most active. Consistency and authenticity matter more than being everywhere. Share content that reflects your personality, book themes, and writing process. A well-planned book launch can generate excitement and momentum. Begin preparations several months in advance to cultivate anticipation. • Pre-orders: Set up pre-orders on major retailers like Amazon, Apple Books, and Kobo. Pre-orders help gauge interest and can boost your book’s ranking on release. • Cover reveal and teasers: Share your cover art, excerpts, and character introductions on social media and your newsletter to create buzz. • ARC campaign: Distribute Advance Review Copies (ARCs) to book bloggers, influencers, and early readers. Encourage honest reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations. • Virtual launch events: Host live readings, Q&A sessions, or themed parties on platforms like Facebook Live, Instagram, or Zoom to interact directly with fans. Reviews are social proof and can significantly influence purchasing decisions. • Request honest reviews: Approach book bloggers, reviewers, and readers in your network. Always respect their time and opinions. • Utilize Net Galley and similar services: These platforms connect authors with reviewers and librarians. A well-written pitch can attract valuable early feedback. • Encourage reader reviews: At the end of your book and in your newsletter, invite readers to leave reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and other sites. Social media is a dynamic tool for promotion, offering direct access to readers. • Authentic engagement: Share your writing journey, celebrate milestones, and respond to comments. Readers appreciate genuine interaction. • Utilize hashtags and trends: Participate in genre-specific hashtags (#IndieAuthors, #BookTok, #AmReading) to increase discoverability. • Collaborate with others: Partner with fellow authors, bloggers, and influencers for cross-promotion, interviews, and guest posts. • Share multimedia content: Create trailers, behind-the-scenes videos, or podcasts that bring your book and personality to life. Investing in targeted advertising can amplify your reach, but it requires thoughtful planning. • Amazon Ads: Sponsored Product Ads allow you to display your book to users searching for similar content. Monitor performance and adjust keywords regularly. • Facebook and Instagram Ads: Use demographic targeting to reach readers based on location, interests, and behaviors. Start with a small budget and experiment with different creatives. • BookBub Featured Deals: BookBub is renowned for its email promotions. While highly competitive, a successful feature can dramatically boost sales. • Goodreads Giveaways: Hosting a giveaway can increase visibility and generate reader interest. Writing is often solitary, but promotion thrives in community. • Attend conventions and fairs: Even virtually, these events offer networking opportunities with readers, authors, and industry professionals. • Join writer organisations: Groups like the Alliance of Independent Authors provide resources, support, and promotional opportunities. • Support other authors: Promote and review books by fellow indie writers. Reciprocity is powerful in the writing community. Standing out requires imagination. • Book trailers: Visual storytelling can captivate potential readers and is highly shareable on social media. • Merchandise: Branded bookmarks, tote bags, and other merchandise can reinforce your book’s theme and delight fans. • Special editions: Limited signed copies or bonus content can incentivise purchases. • Interactive campaigns: Contests, quizzes, and reader challenges can drive engagement and grow your audience. Book promotion is not a one-time effort—it’s an ongoing process. • Keep publishing: The most successful indie authors build momentum with multiple releases. Each new book grows your audience and renews interest in your backlist. • Analyse and adapt: Track your promotional efforts and learn from what works. Tools like Google Analytics, KDP Reports, and social media insights can guide your decisions. • Stay resilient: Success rarely happens overnight, but persistence pays off. Celebrate small wins and continue engaging with your readers. Book promotion as an indie author demands ingenuity, patience, and a deep connection with your readers. By understanding your audience, building a strong platform, leveraging reviews and advertising, and cultivating a supportive community, you can transform your passion into visibility and sales. The journey is as rewarding as the destination, marked by creative growth and the joy of sharing your stories with the world.

Thank you for your curiosity—it’s always a joy to be asked about what lies ahead. The creative journey rarely unfolds in a straight line, and at the moment, I find myself exploring fresh ideas and nurturing seeds of inspiration. While I can’t divulge too many specifics just yet, I am indeed sketching the contours of what might become my next book. Each project brings its own rhythm and surprises. I’m currently captivated by stories that linger at the edge of memory and imagination, weaving together fragments from history and the everyday. Research, long walks, and early morning scribbles are filling my days, gently guiding me toward a new narrative landscape. So, to answer your question: yes, I am working on something new—something that, with patience and a bit of serendipity, will grow into a book. The process is equal parts exhilarating and mysterious, and I look forward to sharing more as it takes shape. Thank you for accompanying me on this unfolding adventure.