Lesson Summary

In a detailed discussion, Tony presents his journey of transitioning from a hobby writer to securing a traditional two-book contract for his DI Bliss series. He and Morgen address the challenges encountered while aging characters in a series and adapting to career and lifestyle changes.

Tony expresses a preference for continuing the Bliss series while also enjoying writing standalone novels.

They explore the potential of spin-offs with minor characters and strive for a balance between writing in different genres.

Reflections are made on transitioning from traditional to self-publishing, emphasising the significance of reader engagement and feedback for maintaining interest.

Considerations surrounding read-through rates, series length, and the fluidity of self-publishing in shaping their writing career are also depicted.

Additionally, the conversation captures Tony's progression from fantasy reader to writing crime novels, inspired by works like 'The Weirdstone of Brisingamen' and authors such as Thomas Harris.

Tony reflects on his passion for writing, challenges faced during self-editing, and milestones in his writing career, which led to seventeen book publications as of now.

The dialogue delves into the discipline required for writing, the thrill of the creative process, and the endeavours in re-editing and improving past works.

Importance is placed on reader feedback, dealing with criticism, and the need for writers to let go of their work once released.

Moreover, Morgen and Tony share their insights on their editing process, preference for self-publishing over traditional methods, and the benefits of setting personal deadlines and maintaining autonomy in writing series.

The discussion expands to productivity strategies, collaborations with industry professionals, and the influence of a musical background on their writing journey.

Details about the author's musical interests, publications, and future works are intertwined with experiences ranging from short stories to novel writing.

Tony J Forder is the author of the bestselling DI Bliss crime thriller series. Bad to the Bone, The Scent of Guilt, If Fear Wins, The Reach of Shadows, The Death of Justice, Endless Silent Scream, Slow Slicing, The Autumn Tree, Darker Days to Come, The Lightning Rod, and What Dies Inside Us has most recently (October 2024) been joined by Something More to Say. There is also a prequel novella available called Bliss Uncovered.

Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.

Tony's first eight novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those eight books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.

Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. He is currently working on book #12 in his bestselling Jimmy Bliss series. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to five without knowing how.

All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder.