We caught up with bestselling author Nicola Moriarty ahead of her talk at the Pioneer Theatre.
The talented writer and Hills local told us about creating her new novel Every Last Suspect, being part of writing royalty, and starting a new chapter as an author.
Here's what she had to say:
What was the writing process like for your latest novel Every Last Suspect? Do you drink tea or coffee while you write, do you listen to music, do you work early in the morning or late at night?
The writing process was very sporadic! I go through stages of feeling very motivated and inspired where I can write for hours at a time and then other periods where I can't write a single word for a week or more because I've gotten completely stuck. I think I work best in the afternoons with a cappuccino in front of me! Oh, and sometimes I listen to music while I work, but it must have the right vibe for the scene I'm working on!
What is your favourite and least favourite thing about being a writer? Do you find the process of writing more energising or exhausting?
My favourite thing is those moments when parts of the story start to fall into place. Especially when I've had a particularly tricky plot point and the perfect solution suddenly comes to me. My least favourite is when I've lost that creative drive and it feels like I might never get it back… but the good news is that (so far) it's always comes back eventually!
Being the younger sister of Jaclyn and Liane Moriarty, you are part of writing royalty. How do you navigate the pressure of comparison as a younger sister and writer, and also the fortune of having two older sisters who can support and encourage you?
It's definitely a balancing act. There are times when a review which directly compares me against my sisters will get to me… but then I remember that they're older, they're more experienced and they're also bloody brilliant! Plus, having their support and advice is invaluable to me.
From teaching swimming to working for a chocolate company to starting your own gift hamper business, you have worked in many different careers before you found your passion as a writer. What advice would you give to young people trying to find a career to pursue?
I'd say if you don't know what you want to do… that's okay! Even though I jumped around a lot trying to figure out where I belonged, I had fun. I experienced lots of different jobs and I gained plenty of stories to use in my future books. So in the end, it was all worth it.
What is your favourite thing about being an author and living here in The Hills? Is it the fantastic libraries to borrow books from, the great cafes to work in, or the quiet areas of bushland to think about your next great work in?
I'd have to say all of the above! The libraries are brilliant – and supportive of local authors as well; there's plenty of cafes to choose from, which is nice when you want a change of scenery to do some writing with a coffee. And of course, sometimes all you need is a walk through the bush to clear your mind (although admittedly… less enjoyable when you run into snakes in the summer!).
Don't miss your chance to catch Nicola at the Pioneer Theatre on Tuesday, 4 February. Tickets are $13.30 per person.
To read Nicola's bestsellers, visit one of The Hills Shire libraries or browse the library category at www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/library
When: 6:30pm to 7:30pm on Tuesday, 4 February
Where: Pioneer Theatre, 14 Pennant Street, Castle Hill
