LINDA EDMONDSON

Author of “Taking The Plunge”

Q what inspired the story?

“Taking The Plunge” was inspired by not letting life pass you by, after a few sad events affected me and my loved ones. Whether you’re fifteen, fifty or seventyfive, if you really want to do something, or change something, don’t be afraid to give it a go. It seems a lot easier to sink into worry or sadness or regret than it is to do something different. My view is, “Try it – you might just like it”. And if you don’t, just try something else.

Q what’s the best writing tip you’ve heard?

My tip? To read the dialogue aloud. It’s the easiest way to see if it works.

Q what, in your opinion, makes a good story?

Well, I like a story that makes the reader work a little bit. One that doesn’t tell you everything; one that comes in part-way through a situation and perhaps doesn’t finish quite at the end, so you have to fill it in yourself, like one of those intricate colouring books. Those types of story leave you thinking, wondering, long after you’ve read them.

Q what’s the best compliment a reader could give you about your story?

That it made them think about something a little differently.

Q what’s your favourite writing snack?

Actually, it’s a drink. A cup of builder’s tea, made with Co-op Earl Grey. Which is almost as good as the tea in the “People’s Friend” tea caddy, I suspect – although I haven’t tried it! I do, however, have a true story about that tea caddy that I really should put down on paper. Perhaps I’ll write that one next.