Welcome to my second Welsh Wednesday, a day dedicated to the wonderful writing talent in my adopted new home of Wales. Today I would like to introduce you to Sally Spedding.
First up, please tell us about your connection to Wales.
I was born in Porthcawl to a Welsh mother and Dutch father (with German/Spanish origins) Returned to Wales for 18 years and taught at Ysgol Gyfun Tregib in Llandeilo. Back again, to lovely Carmarthenshire in 2007.
Tell us a little about yourself as writer and as person.
I began writing as a 9 year-old during rows and tensions at my Dutch grandparents’ beautiful but spooky house on the Blorenge near Abegavenny. They’d lost so many of their families in Occupied Holland (who’d insisted on staying) they found it hard to cope, especially as suspicion of anyone with a German surname, was still rife. Even the local vicar kept a rifle under his altar. They’d previously had to hide for 2 years in a cottage in the woods, for safety.
Why did you decide to write in your chosen genre(s)?
Perhaps because of the betrayals I’d heard about, and since experienced. Because I’m fascinated by the duplicity of people and places. Also, that justice is rare.
Tell us about the concept behind your book(s).
My latest psychological crime novel, ‘Cut to the Bone’ deals with the hazards of adoption. Sometimes one doesn’t even fathom one’s own children, never mind someone else’s. When Lionel Shriver was asked why she’d never had children, replied that it was like opening the back door and not knowing who was coming in. Chilling, but it rings true. The book is set near Coventry where a London overspill slum is separated from high-end luxury living by a mere strip pf Tarmac. Rita Martin is my favourite character. She’s brave and determined in the face of huge disadvantage and loss.
What is your life like outside of writing? What makes you laugh and what makes you cry?
My husband, Jeffrey, and artist, makes me laugh, and our lovely granddaughter who can, miraculously, balance a spoon against her face. People who, because of their background and/or religion, are made to feel excluded. Cruelty to animals makes me cry. Ritual slaughter is barbaric and unecessary. As are live animal transports.
Who is your favourite Welsh author?
Picking just one would leave too many out. But they know who they are!
What is the best thing about Wales?
The wild places. The fantastic people I know.
What are you working on now?
A crime series set in France involving wannabe gendarme Delphine Rougier, who’s had a tough life, but is full of ambition. Sometimes recklesly so. ‘Footfall’ is ready to go, and ‘Featherblade’ is still being edited.
What are the best and the worst aspects of writing?
The best is just doing it. The worst is not being able to, for whatever reason.
What is your advice to new writers?
Write for yourself, not the perceived ‘market.’ Read your heroes, and get out there and mingle!
What is your favourite book?
‘The Pledge’ by Friedrich Dürrenmatt. A study in obsession set in a claustrophobic part of Switzerland
What book are you currently reading and in what format (e-book/paperback/hardcover)?
‘A Song for Drowned Souls’ by Bernard Minier. Paperback.
How do you handle criticism of your work?
Fine. At least criticism shows interest!
Conect with Sally on
Twitter – @SallySpedding
Facebook – www.facebook.com/sally.spedding
or her Website – www.sallyspedding.com
judithbarrow1 said:
A brilliant interview – thank you Sally and Christoph. Loving Welsh Wednesdays!
writerchristophfischer said:
Thanks Judith – I’m loving this interview series, too. So much amazing talent and great personalities. Thanks for the introduction!
Sally Spedding said:
Thank you, Judith! x
judithbarrow1 said:
Reblogged this on Barrow Blogs: and commented:
A brilliant interview – thank you Sally and Christoph. Loving Welsh Wednesdays
Carol Lovekin said:
Like everyone else, I’m loving Welsh Wednesday. It’s a wonderful idea. Thank you Sally & Christoph – great interview.
writerchristophfischer said:
Thanks Carol – I’m loving it, too. Such great talent and characters to explore here. 🙂
Sally Spedding said:
Thank you, Carol. Looking forward to meeting you properly next time round! x
teagan geneviene said:
You have the most marvelous interviews, Christoph. So nice to meet Sally. Hugs to you both!
writerchristophfischer said:
Thanks Teagan – I agree. Especially after having met Sally in real life at the Tenby Festival I was looking forward to this interview. Hugs!
Sally Spedding said:
Thank you, Teagan. Yes, we all need a hug now and then. All the best, Sally
Kev said:
Sounds good… loving your Welsh Wednesdays, Christoph!
writerchristophfischer said:
Thanks Kevin – I love them, too. 🙂
Mary Smith said:
Excellent interview. Sally’s Cut to the Bone sounds like a great read.
writerchristophfischer said:
It truly does, Mary. Thanks for stopping by 🙂
Sally Spedding said:
Thank you, Mary. Cut to the Bone is quite dark, but then, so is life. All the best to you.
sarahraynewriter said:
Lovely and interesting interview with a gifted writer.
writerchristophfischer said:
Thanks Sarah, I agree 🙂
Sally Spedding said:
Thank you, Sarah and Christoph. Inspiring and generous writers, both. xx
Helen said:
Enjoyed hearing about Sally and her writing! Best wishes to her in all her endeavours.
writerchristophfischer said:
Thanks for commenting, Helen 🙂
Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life. said:
Reblogged this on Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life and commented:
Christoph interviews Sally Spedding as part of his Welsh Wednesday interviews..
writerchristophfischer said:
Thanks Sally 🙂
Let's CUT the Crap! said:
This is a fabulous interview. Smashing idea for Wednesdays. I look forward to the next one already. 🙂
writerchristophfischer said:
Thank you 🙂
Let's CUT the Crap! said:
You are welcome. 🙂
Sally Spedding said:
Thank you. Love your ‘name!’ Very apt, these days. All the very best.
Let's CUT the Crap! said:
😀 😀 😀
Catrin Collier said:
Brilliant interview but how could it be anything else with Sally, loved reading it, thank you.
writerchristophfischer said:
Thanks Catrin 🙂
Sally Spedding said:
Thank you, Catrin. Only just seen this, almost a year later!! From a brilliant, generous writer. x
Pingback: Review: “Cold Remains” by Sally Spedding | writerchristophfischer
Pingback: 2015 Christoph Fischer Awards for Thrillers and Mystery Novels | writerchristophfischer
Pingback: Llandovery writers group launches “Turnings of the Years” Anthology | writerchristophfischer
Pingback: Llandeilo Lit Fest Review: “Death Knell” by Sally Spedding | writerchristophfischer