Author Series: Roger David Francis

Roger David Francis

Introduce yourself

Originally I grew up in a small town called Burntwood in the heart of Cannock Chase. I now live in Rhyl, North Wales in a lovely little bungalow where I find all my inspiration and creativity.

What initially got you into writing?

Writing has always been one of those things I've said I'd do and never done. I've always said I'd write a book but never actually done it. Three years ago I got the inspiration for a screenplay I penned called Teggie. Later I wrote the book to accompany the screen play and the rest they say is history.

Who are your biggest influences and why?

Stephen King has to be my favourite writer. I love how he fleshes out his characters and edges his reader slowly into the story. My own writing style is somewhat different to Mr Kings. I take the journey into their journey at full speed and don't stop until they get to the end.

My earliest influences came from classic episodes of Doctor Who in my youth. This led me to read every Dr Who paperback ever released and set me in good stead for later life.

Ripperville

Are you traditionally published or self-published?

I have released 19 books to date via self publishing. Whilst the validation of traditional publishing is great, I love the control self published authors have over their work. Not to say it wouldn't be nice to have a few books traditionally published, however, as an unknown author finding an agent can often be like finding a needle in a haystack.

How important is writing as an art form in the world, today?

I believe literature should be considered the treasure of generations. There is a tendency today to want to censor older works which do not fit the modern narrative. Every author is of their time and the words they use reflect the times they live. Literature should be considered art and preserved, flaws and all.

Do you have a set process when starting a new project?

I never intended to have a process when I write but as time goes on I find there are patterns I follow. I normally aim for around 80,000 words although I've been known to go beyond that. My first draft will be around 20,000 words and basically tells the story through actions rather than characters. As I continue the next draft of around 40,000 words, there are more subplots and twists added. After that it's all about the characters and giving them life. Does the audience care enough to want to follow their journey through the book to the end?

Ark Of Hope

What has been your favourite book to write and why?

Ark of Hope is one of my favourites. I use ideas in Ark of Hope which would make Terry Pratchett proud. One of my Amazon reviews suggested I must have been on magic mushrooms when I wrote it. There are some obscure themes in the book and I guarantee the reader will not see it coming.

Which genre do you enjoy writing in?

Horror and science fiction are ultimately my favourite genres. I have tried humour but opinions are subjective and finding the right audience for humour can be a challenge.

Is writing your primary source of income?

19 books and I still earn pocket money. Until authors grow their fan bases or get offered a movie deal of a life time I think the average author needs an additional income or a set of wealthy parents.

I'm fortunate enough to be a natural born night owl, so finding a few hours every night to write has been a relaxing and easy thing for me to do.

What advice can you give our readers, should they wish to pursue writing?

I would say write because you want to. Write because you want your story immortalised for future generations. And never give up hope the whole world wants to read your story.

What does success mean to you?

Success is looking at the number of readers and knowing I've brought my imagination into theirs and hopefully given them something to think about.

Teggie

What projects are you currently working on?

The original screen play which started everything called Teggie is being turned into an Indie film. I teamed up with Troy Dennison a Midlands filmmaker to start the project. We've been underway a few years now but progress is ongoing and hopefully one day we will reach completion. For more information check out our website http://www.teggie.co.uk

What are your hopes for the future?

I'd like to make some short films and develop some smaller scripts so I can get some projects around the festival circuits.

Lastly where can people find you?

Several of my books are mentioned on my Facebook author page here:

https://www.facebook.com/authorRogerDavidFrancis/

Aternatively check out my website:

http://www.rogerdavidfrancis.co.uk/

And of course check out my film Teggie:

http://www.teggie.co.uk/

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