How do you develop your plot and characters?
With my background in academic writing, I’ve found that once I have the title, I have the article – and this holds true for my fiction books as well.
I start with a general idea of what I want to explore, whether it’s the impact of internet-driven communities and the third world war like in the “Going Places” trilogy, social unrest and uprising in the US like in “Hidden,” or the erosion of democracy through a corrupted Danish justice system as in “Rotten.” Once I have the title and a basic concept, I dive into writing.
Personally, I prefer not to have the entire plotline mapped out before starting to write. Having too much plotline and structure upfront dampen my motivation. I enjoy being surprised by the twists and turns that emerge during the writing process. This spontaneity is why I tend not to discuss my works in progress; I feel that the books need to unfold, and the characters need to evolve naturally, without my interference. It’s as if they have a life of their own.
What do you think makes a good story?
Unpredictability, thought-provoking depth, and mind-blowing imagination.
Have you ever tried writing a novel in a genre you rarely or never read?
I never imagined myself writing books, let alone war fiction. Most of my writing stems from my extensive research career in economics and social sciences, grounding my narratives in certain truths. Despite the daunting nature of war, I am drawn to telling stories of survival, particularly from a female perspective.
My journey into writing began when I was bedridden, using it as a means to transport myself beyond my physical limitations. While confined, I mentally traveled far and wide through my stories, despite being physically confined to my bed. It was my sister who encouraged me to transform my writing into a book.
Do you listen to music while you write — and if so, what’s your favorite?
I occasionally listen to music while writing; it helps set the mood. For example, when I was writing the “Going Places” trilogy (www.going-places-book.com), I found gaming music to be incredibly inspiring. It is like modern, classical symphony music, instantly immersing me in a world of war and horror. It is really quite exciting. The fast-paced rhythms were particularly impactful. Some of my go-to tracks included “Aliens” by James Horner, “Obi-Wan Kenobi” by John Williams, and “Halo Infinite” by Gareth Coker, Joel Corelitz, and Curtis Schweitzer.
However, as I progressed to the third book in the trilogy, my music listening decreased. While writing “Hidden,” I only turned to music occasionally, during dramatic war scenes. For “Rotten,” which is a fictionalized account of real-life experiences with the dysfunctional Danish justice system, I’ve opted not to listen to music at all. Achieving a calm atmosphere is crucial to accurately portray the interviewees’ narratives.
I also spend a lot of time studying maps for my writing, especially when considering travel between different locations. Additionally, I enjoy listening to “In Our Time: History,” a BBC podcast hosted by Melvyn Bragg. And I read newspapers.
Have you ever traveled for research purposes for your book?
I spent nearly a month traveling solo to Siem Reap in Cambodia, visiting Angkor Wat almost daily. I have a deep affinity for warmth and the way hot weather can relax you to your core. (Denmark is cold!) The scenery of Cambodia was breathtaking. The local people were exceptionally kind and warm-hearted.
I scheduled my visit to coincide with research for the second book in my trilogy, ‘Going Places, United and Divided.’ Yet, upon arrival, I was completing the book. Also, despite my best efforts to write, I found myself too distracted to make significant progress. I am naturally a busy-body or restless person.
During my return journey, I was stranded at Hong Kong airport for eight hours, when I managed to get a lot of writing done. I think the conclusion is that traveling is great for inspiration, but writing is best done in a place with few distractions. Therefore, I generally find that I write best when I am at home starting in the mornings.
How long does it take you to write a book?
I tend to immerse myself deeply and write quite swiftly. Typically, I complete a book in about eight months. Even as I plan to take a break after finishing one book, ideas for the next one often start taking shape in my mind. I’m usually thinking one or two books ahead.
To balance my life, I make sure to take long walks in the forest, spend quality time with friends, and cherish moments with my daughters. Alongside writing, I also manage consultancy and research assignments.
How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?
Since I started writing in January 2022, I have written five books. My favorite tends to be my latest book, followed closely by the next one in progress. Once I finish a book, I quickly shift my focus to the next book.
What comes first for you – the plot or the characters – and why?
For me, the larger plotline typically comes first, such as cyber infiltration of people’s minds, social inequality, social uprising, and society and governments’ propensity to monitor and control people. From there, I consider who would be the most fitting characters to tell the story. As I develop both the plot and characters, they evolve together, shaping the entirety of the narrative.
Do you think you and your main character would get along?
I often begin by crafting a main character to be somewhat unlikable, but as the story unfolds, they usually start to grow on me. I believe it’s crucial to create multifaceted characters because they reflect the complexity of real life. After all, we are all intricate individuals shaped and sharpened by our lives.
If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?
Run!
Links:
Book’s website: https://www.going-places-book.com/
Author’s website: https://www.luisenoring.net/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/luisenoring