Allan Hudson—a refined novelist and a winner of several short story contests—has self-published four novels and many short stories. His work falls under the action/adventure/historic fiction genres and has been awarded several honorable mentions.

His short story—The Ship Breakers—received honourable mention in the New Brunswick Writer’s Federation short story contest. Another short story—In the Abyss—also received honourable mention in the 2020 WFNB short story contest. Other short stories have been published on Commuterlit, The Golden Ratio and his blog, South Branch Scribbler.

Currently, he’s working on a number of projects. Some of his upcoming works that his fans can look forward to are the second in the Jo Naylor series planned to be published in late 2020 or early 2021 and the third book in the Drake Alexander Adventure.

He was born in Saint John. Growing up in South Branch, he was encouraged to read from an early age by his mother who was a school teacher. He lives in Cocagne with his wife Gloria.

The Alexanders. Vol.1 1911 – 1920

In the turbulent waters off Saltcoats, Scotland, Danny Alexander dies in a boating accident. He leaves behind a wife, seven children and no hope. Dominic is the middle child. With a broken heart, his mother is forced to leave him with his bachelor uncle, Duff. None of them are happy with the decision.

Eleven-year-old Dominic Alexander must earn his keep. There are no free rides. Yet despite the difficulties, he finds his place in the structured world of his uncle and overcomes his loneliness.

Fortune and misfortune follow the young man until adversity forces him to make a decision that will affect the rest of his life. Is emigrating to Canada the answer?

5 Author Interview Questions about Book Writing Process & Mindset Answered

#1 What is your most productive writing habit?

I have a favored writing spot in my converted garage where I have a desk, notepad and laptop set up. It gives me the privacy and silence I prefer when I write—almost always in the early morning. My desk faces the east where I can pause if I’m stuck for words or ideas and watch the waters along the coast where I live. My stories have always been inspired by my surroundings.

#2 What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

In the beginning of a story, I research the geographical setting, the time period it is set in, the occupational background of my main character(s), so I have a good idea of where my character lives and works, what they do best and why.

Also, how events may unfold in that given era, be it modern day or a hundred years ago. Often this will take me many hours of note keeping. After the story is unfolding, I do research as needed and this may take a few minutes or a few hours, depending on the details of what I need.

#3 What was your hardest scene to write so far?

There is a scene in my newest novel, The Alexanders, where a family is informed of the death of a son and brother that died in action in WWI. The body was not able to be returned to the family and the funeral service is held with only a photo. It was difficult for me to imagine the grief the family must be feeling and to let the reader know what they may be experiencing. A situation like this has never happened to me or anyone I know. I looked for work or stories of something similar to try and understand the emotions of grieving over a loved one with out a body present. I hope I have done the family justice.

#4 Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book?

I’ve always enjoyed reading a novel that is in a series and look forward to the next adventure. I am doing so with both my Drake Alexander and Jo Naylor novels. Each book in the series must stand on its own, of course, but I also enjoy writing a continuing series. I intend to do so with my historical Alexander novels as well. I have a couple of ideas for stand-alone novels. Not sure where they will go yet but that’s the fun of writing, for me—seeing where the characters take me.

#5 What other authors are you friends with, and how do they help you become a better writer?

I have many author friends that I have come to admire and respect. Mainly because of my popular blog – South Branch Scribbler – where I host and support many, many authors. Several of them have become friends, albeit at a distance. I would mention the distinguished author, Roger Moore, who’s advice has been helpful. Also, Susan Toy for her tremendous support and her lively stories, as well as sharing writer’s information and instruction. Sally Cronin, again for her support.

I have always been an avid reader and I find by reading different genres by these successful authors has been the most helpful—being empowered by their style and writing genius.

Answer #5 is my personal favorite. Comment below to tell me yours. Have more questions on writing or have a question for the author? Send them in to have them answered. #thealignedwriter

Follow Allan

Website      www.southbranchscribbler.ca
LinkedIn    https://www.linkedin.com/in/allan-hudson/
Amazon      Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads  https://www.goodreads.com/author/Allan_Hudson 
Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/southbranchscribbler
Twitter      https://twitter.com/hudson_allan