The Next Big Thing

I’ve been memed. (Is meme a verb? It is now…). The lovely and talented Paul Cornell has challenged me to take part in the meme de jour. How could I resist?

What is the working title of your next book?

Queen of Nowhere, although it’s not a working title given the book is already in the process of being printed. I am working on a new project, but it’s still under wraps.

Where did the idea come from for the book?

A previously minor character from an earlier novel took on a life of her own, there was a problem that needed solving … and it turned out she was the woman to attempt it.

What genre does your book fall under?

Post-Cyberpunk Geek Space Opera. No, really.

What actors would you choose to play the part of your characters in a movie rendition?

I have no idea. Don’t think I haven’t thought about it, because of course I have, but I’m not very good with actors’ names and I haven’t come across anyone who strikes me as the person to portray Bez. The fact that defines herself as unmemorable and constantly changes her appearance to match her current identity would make her something of a challenge on screen.

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

A lone genius takes on a galactic conspiracy.

Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?

It’s published by Gollancz, out early next year.

How long did it take you to write the first draft of the manuscript?

About eight months, which is all the time I can allow myself on a book-a-year schedule, given how much rewriting time I need.

What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

Another tricky question. At the risk of sounding a bit pretentious I think that, as authors, we’re often too close to our work to see similarities with other people’s stories. My editor did describe Bez, the protagonist of Queen of Nowhere as a female Jason Bourne in space, which is not a bad comparison.

Who or what inspired you to write this book?

A book contract. Cynicism aside, the main reason I wrote this (as opposed to any other) book was that the overarching plot of my series needed this story to be told. And who am I to deny to an overarching plot.

What else about the book might pique the reader’s interest?

It’s got intrigue, scenery, aliens, revenge, angst, religious loonies, hacking, weird cultures and a killer plot twist on the last page – so if you do buy it, don’t be tempted to skip to the end.

 

And in return … I tag Kari Sperring and Theresa Derwin.

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