I think they’ll have to stay that age. I’d rather trailer the tone and content to fit their unique voice.

It’s mainly the protagonist’s voice. I don’t picture them being older than 13 and that might be a hard sell for YA readers.

Thanks! I also like the idea of the father not featuring in the story yet being ever present and the focus of tension throughout the structure.

A little, but really it was only a couple of swear words and some imagery that could be adapted to be less visceral and disturbing. The subject matter still might be a little much for 8-12s, but we’ll see when the beta readers get hold of it!

Hi Alice. It’s a YA fantasy called BENEATH SILVER STITCHES. Here’s the logline:

When a helicopter pilot crashes in the mountains, to save him, his teenage son must make a pact with a dark and desperate creature not of our world.

Not finished yet, but the answer is ‘sort of’. I don’t want to give too much away until it’s finished.

Here’s the logline 😉
When a helicopter pilot crashes in the mountains, to save him, his teenage son must make a pact with a dark and desperate creature not of our world.

I’ve legit been obsessed with that film since I watched it at the cinema. It’s rereleasing in 3D this October and Del’Toro says it’s the definitive version.

Regular team for years. Occasionally add someone new if we want a specific style, but rarely.

They’re packed with both! It’s one of our main selling points.

I actually run the roleplaying game publisher @hatchlingdm.itch.io, so that occupies most of my time.
What are the reasons for including illustrations in your book?

What are you currently working on?

Kind of playful, but also steeped in traditional. I’m very keen to present the camp and the community there with originality and warmth.

A gypsy camp is the main one, which is also a challenge to present accurately and sensitively. I’ll be hiring a cultural consultant before querying the book with agents.

Bit of both. I have chapters outlined and the complete story in mind, but I’m finding extra chapters are needed between the bit plot points to build characters and locations. I feel that also helps with the pace, and I’ve personally always enjoyed those quieter, introspective parts of a story.

Yeah I won’t lose the feeling, just ease it off a little. I’m halfway through the manuscript but the way I draft means I’m technically on the 3rd pass 😂. I know it’s seen as wrong to edit as you go along, but I can’t prevent the perfectionist in me so I’m just embracing it.

Hi Jessica! I think both principles are going to be tough, but it’ll be worth it in the end. With the imagery, it’s not so difficult, as there isn’t any violence or sex atm, just some grotesque and macabre scenes that can be adjusted. As for the voice, I’ll do my best 😅

Yes, but I’m trying to approach with a fresh take. Something more akin to Pan’s Labyrinth.

It’s the first major action scene and marks the intersection between the real world and the fae for the town beyond my protagonist. My intention is to write this book in 1st person POV and the second in 3rd person limited. Then close the trilogy from the omniscient perspective. Ambitious but fun!