This week it’s time for another debut author interview, this time with YA novelist Kate Mallinder, whose book will be out on 2 May (the same day as mine!)
Tell us a little about your book and how you came to write it.
It’s about friendship and long summers, but it’s also about living with no regrets. When I started writing this I was trying out a no regrets lifestyle – saying yes to things I wouldn’t usually; essentially feeling the fear but doing it anyway and the inspiration came from that.
What makes your book unique?
The blend of characters, theme of no regrets and the way it’s told (this is a very hard question!) I guess the story I’ve read that’s most like it is one from a few years ago now – The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants.
Summer of No Regrets is marketed as part of the ‘up lit’ genre. Do you think it’s important that it is also a YA book aimed at younger readers?
I’d say it is first and foremost for teens – this was really crucial when writing it, though like a lot of YA fiction it has stretch so would appeal to readers in their twenties and thirties too. It’s been labelled ‘up lit’ to help readers know what type of story it is and, given the particularly grim political times we’re living in, helps readers choose something that’s mood-enhancing.
Your book will soon be in readers’ hands. Which part of being published are you most excited about?
There’s so much to be excited about but being read has to be the top. I’ve been writing for some years and always the goal was to be read. And the best chance of this happening was being published, though I’m aware that it’s still not a certainty. Close runners-up would be holding my book and seeing it in the shops. Also very keen to know how it smells!
What has been the most challenging part of your journey to publication?
The near misses. I’ve been with my agent for a while and we’ve suffered a few near misses and they were the toughest. I’m all set for rejections, but when I let my guard down and get my hopes up, and then the rejection happens – that was pretty crushing. Though I’ve realised that I’m more determined than I thought I was. Also, if I’m honest, this book wouldn’t have been written without the desire to raise my game, so perhaps it’s all worked out for the best (though it really didn’t feel like it at the time)
Do you have a writing mentor, or someone who has influenced your work?
I’ve got a few close writing friends who keep me going, but writing-wise I’ve learnt a massive amount by being edited by my agent, Hannah Sheppard. She truly has had the most impact on my writing.
What advice would you give to other writers hoping to publish a novel?
Read widely, write a lot, learn when to let a story go, find your tribe and keep going.
Is there a debut novel you’re particularly looking forward to reading in 2019?
There are so many fabulous titles coming out, but if I had to pick one it would be All the Things we Never Said by Yasmin Rahman – it sounds amazing.
About the author
Kate Mallinder lives near Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire with her husband, four children and two kittens. She’s currently attempting to live with ‘no regrets’ and doing all sorts of things she’d usually say no to.
Follow her on Twitter or visit her website.
Summer of No Regrets – out 2 May 2019 with Firefly Press. Find out more on Goodreads, Amazon and Waterstones.