We’re introducing you to people who are part of the Betterwrite world. Welcome to HUW JONES, one of our authors.
Huw wrote The Last Director of Shoreditch, a “wondrously descriptive page turner” with “a compelling plot and vivid characterisation”.
Huw Jones – Recovered Writer
Huw, what’s your connection with Betterwrite?
I turned to Betterwrite for help with editing and proofing The Last Director of Shoreditch. The help I got was patient and practical, and improved the finished book.
What are you working on now?
A few months after publishing my book, I had an accident and broke my neck. Since then I’ve focused on getting better and am fine now, ready to think about a second novel. I have some ideas I’m sketching out.
What do you like and dislike about writing?
I love the freedom of thought it brings, but it can take over your mind completely, which sometimes isn’t a good thing!
Whose writing do you enjoy?
Graham Greene, Iris Murdoch, Ian McEwan, Alan Hollinghurst, Colm Toibin, Jonathan Franzen.
Favourite title?
Therese Desqueyroux by Francois Mauriac.
What do you like about Francois Mauriac’s work?
The sheer economy of writing. He can conjure up a mood or scene in few words and really get into the minds of his characters.
Give us a quote.
“Marriage is like abroad – no one would want to go there if they hadn’t been told it existed” – from Decline and Fall by Evelyn Waugh, which I recently read for a book club.
What’s your favourite word in English?
Lie-in – I often have to get up very early for the day job!
Any other quotes?
“She look like she ain’t long for this world but dressed well for the next.” From The Color Purple, another book-club choice.
Favourite saying?
“Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
Apart from your work, what plans or ambitions have you got?
To stay healthy.
How will you do that?
Go easy on the red wine, and exercise more.
What have you learned about life?
It’s what you don’t do that you regret.
What have you learned about people?
They’re more resilient than you think.
How did you start writing?
By finally realising a book won’t get written unless you sit down again and again to write it.