How would you describe your novel, Perfect North?
Perfect North is a compelling tale of adventure, romance, deception and mystery drawn from the true story of a Swedish balloon expedition to the North Pole in the late 1800s.
What was your inspiration for Perfect North?
Initially the writing of a book was provoked by a friendly challenge laid down by my journalist husband who was fed up with me nagging him to write a book. Around the same time I came across the fascinating and tragic story of a Swedish balloon expedition to the North Pole in the late 1800s. I thought it would be a great starting point for a novel.
When do you write? Is it possible to create a work/life balance with a young family?
I have two young sons so my routine has to fit around theirs. My eldest is at school and my youngest is in child care three days a week. On those three days, during school hours, I work with a single-minded intensity of purpose. I’m disappointed when I have to stop to eat. During the rest of the week I attempt to write when it’s possible. For instance, when my thirteen-month-old is asleep or my husband is giving the boys a bath. They are only brief moments of time that I am able to snatch but because I’m thinking of the story constantly, when I sit down at the computer I find the words flow very freely.
What was it like to receive your first publishing contract?
It was absolutely thrilling. I genuinely thought the manuscript of Perfect North would never see the light of day but to have three publishers enthusiastic about my story … I was absolutely floored.
What are your greatest literary influences?
My favourite author is Jane Austen. Her novels never fail to captivate and surprise me. I also have a passion for John Irving, A.S. Byatt and Hilary Mantel. Mantel’s historical fiction has had a major impact on the way I think about writing and the structure and boundaries of fiction. My husband, Chris has also influenced my work. As a journalist, he has taught me the power of brevity in writing.
What is next for you?
I want to keep writing! I recently submitted my second novel for publication – The President’s Lunch – which will be released in October 2014. I have also just begun researching and writing my third novel. It is set in the early 1700s – the golden age of piracy.
Perfect North by Jenny Bond has just been released, published by Hachette.
We are very excited about the upcoming release of Kate Morton's latest book, The Secret Keeper, and can't wait to share our review with you.
On October 12, 2012
Last week we reviewed the fabulous Secrets of the Tides. We are thrilled that the author, Hannah Richell, has been able to join us this week to answer a few...
On October 23, 2012
Twenty-one years after Colin Firth became a heartthrob by striding out of a lake in wet shirt, the shirt is going on display. As far as we know it will...
On March 10, 2016
These books will help you reach your goals in your personal life and at work.
On October 4, 2017