Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I first trained as a photographer in the mid eighties and then completed a degree in English and Philosophy at University College Dublin. I went on to complete post graduate film studies at the National Film and Television School in London. I now work in TV. I have three children.
I’ve always been a writer since childhood. Why? I wish I knew where these commands or little logoi come from. It might be like asking: What inspired you to fall in love? The answer seems beyond our grasp. Heaven knows. This is my first published novel.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Burning in the Darkness. I wanted to write a page turning thriller/crime story. The most important element for me is finding a character that I wanted to explore. Also the setting is crucial to this novel. I really enjoyed building all the elements: character, plot and setting.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I get quite a lot of work done on my train commute to work. I find it a very concentrated time. I don’t seem to daydream so much.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My favourite tends to be the last book that I really enjoyed. I read Capote’s In Cold Blood last summer. His generous and imaginative descriptions of characters are very powerful. Very inspiring. I also recently finished A House for Mister Biswas. A perfect and touching blend of the comic and the tragic. I’m also a big fan of Robert Harris and Hilary Mantel. Her inventive use of language is a joy to read. I like the great old fashioned story telling and big themes of Robert Harris. I think my favourite crime writer is James Ellroy.
What are you working on now?
I have an idea for a series, so I’m doing a lot of reading/research and jotting down notes/ideas.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My book is on Kindle Select so I’m spending time promoting to bloggers, trying to get reviews etc. I’m also a photographer. Go to my web site: apmcgrath.com.
There is also a very poignant collection of photographic portraits of the people of Montserrat before the tiny island was devastated by volcanic activity. I feel privileged that these portraits habe attracted a lot of traffic to my web site.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep on writing. It takes a long time and it takes a lot if time. Also, you need the opinions of others.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Learn all your musical scales and notes, then forget them when you get up on stage and play from the heart.
What are you reading now?
Jodi Picoult’s Small Great Things. And Jonathan Barnes’ The Presocratic Philosophers. (Quite a contrast!)
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m interested in the reader response to my novel. If 20 readers really enjoy it and are moved by it then I will feel justified in writing another.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Possibly Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood
Author Websites and Profiles
AP McGrath Website
AP McGrath Amazon Profile