Q&A with Roger Simpson, Author of Halifax: Transgression

Briefly tell us about your book.

Halifax Transgression follows Jane as she weaves her way through four diabolical crimes in search of an awful truth – indeed two awful truths, her empathy and humanity, as always, her only protection.

How did you think of the title of the book?

When choosing a title, I like to go for one that reflects theme rather than story. And I choose it early in the process so I can test myself against it as I write. I like big, bold (often biblical) single word titles that work on a number of levels.

Do you write about people you know? Or yourself?

Both. I think it’s unavoidable. No authentic fictional character is conjured up out of the ether. Though the boundaries between others and self is constantly blurred – with a bit of them and a bit of yourself. Of course, it’s only your impression of others since you are looking at them from the outside. And your image of self is not reliable either as that is subjective as well. Whether you bend characters to the story or the story to the characters is one of the great mysteries of writing. And why it is so enjoyable and such a process of discovery.

If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring writers, what would it be?

Despite my comment about writing being a process of discovery, I strongly believe you need to know the reason why you are writing the book – and in particular the ending. If you don’t know where you are going, then I don’t think you should start. You mightn’t necessarily know how you are going to get there, but if the destination isn’t clear, you may get lost along the way. So chose an ending – and don’t leave home without it.

What’s your daily routine like and what are you working on at the moment?

There are three distinct stages: planning, writing and re-writing. For me stage one is the most creative and enjoyable, stage two the one where you need to show some discipline and stick to a daily target, and stage three the most satisfying when the book finally comes together. At the moment, I am working on the second Halifax book – Halifax Resurrection.

Buy a copy of Halifax: Transgression here.