Interview with Math Bird, Author of Hidden Grace

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Hidden Grace?

This is the second book in the Ned Flynn series, so I wanted to continue his story and his character development. This is a different Flynn, a man changed by recent events and soon to be affected by the new dangers he’s about to encounter. Also, I wanted to explore that anyone, no matter how tough or infallible we believe them to be, can become a victim and how some people will hurt and manipulate others for as long as they’re able to get away with it.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I’m a huge fan of crime fiction, especially small-town crime and rural noir, which influences a lot of my fiction. What I love, alongside a cracking good read, is their ability to explore the human condition, the horrors and challenges of the ‘everyday’ and notions of place. They also provide the perfect vehicle to explore genre alongside literary themes–stories that can be appreciated on many levels, about people on the periphery crossing moral, ideological, and geographical borders.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Loads, but to name but a few…. The Long and Faraway Gone by Lou Berney A Darker Shade in Blue by John Harvey This Dark Road to Mercy by Wiley Cash Jesus Out to Sea by James Lee Burke And many more.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Hmm, that’s a difficult one, but I think (without giving any spoilers) the last scene between Flynn and Eddie as that’s where we witness the most significant change in Flynn’s character.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I like to start writing first thing in the morning, anytime before 9am, otherwise I find it difficult to get into the “zone” if the zone is an actual thing. Is that quirky, perhaps?

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Get on with it.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

First and foremost, I hope they find it a compelling, and entertaining read. Then, as this is the second book in the Ned Flynn series, I hope they enjoy the continuation of his story and his character development.

Math Bird is the author of the new book Hidden Grace

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