Andy Love

I started to write after reading so many anthologies, which I presume were from the 60's or 70's. I just picked up pencil and paper and started to write. I probably thought that I would not complete the work. It was unknown to me, if I was about to write a novel or short story...the thought never crossed my mind. So, I didn't intend to become a writer, it became an addiction that burrowed under my skin.

I started to research my work and the words turned out to be my first short story, Minion. After the umpteenth draft, I read it and thought, 'it's a lot better than some published work I've read.'

I bought books on how to write and get published. It turned out that I seemed to tick all the boxes of ways to NOT write as a beginner. Ooppps!

How good was my story though? I'd have to see if I could get published in an anthology, (better than the 60's or 70's I read) without having to pay. My reasoning was, if I sent it to America then I can't hear them laughinng from Scotland. They "bought" my story and it was published. So proud, eh?

Since then, I've read quality books, like: Stephen King, John Saul, Koontz, Clive Barker... I've still to get around to reading an Anne Rice book. A lot of what I read now is reference material.

I do beleive now, that authors are always learning. I have learned so much from other wonderful authors here on GR and hope to continue. Yeah, it might take longer for the info to sink into my head, but all people are different, so don't be shy of asking. Go for it!

I especially enjoy researching history, always have.

Please email me, I'd appreciate your views on any aspect of the book, Short Shocks Vol I.

My new book, Short Shocks II is due out soon. It's beefier and scarier. My aim is for the stories to be enjoied then nestle in your mind. Hopefully, it will surface to disturb you later.

Regards, Andy.