Each week we’ll be inviting an author to share a peek at their writing space. This week it’s James Calbraith, author of The Shadow of Black Wings.
There are two places I write during the day: on a train to work (an hour each way) and back home, on the bed, surrounded by all the necessities of life: a laptop, another laptop, a mobile phone, a kindle and a glass of gin & orange juice :) Contrary to all conventional wisdom, I like plenty of distractions and comfort during writing.
I need the second laptop to be able to access the internet and my video and music collection at all times – whenever I need inspiration or do some research. I write historical fiction, so a large amount of research is a necessity.
I need the bed because I sit eight hours a day at work and any more sitting would break my back completely. It may not be the healthiest or most ergonomic position, but it’s a tried and tested one. I’ve been writing lying down for years now and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I need the gin because… well, what writer doesn’t need a glass of gin once in a while? :) I don’t smoke, so it’s the only ‘writerly’ vice I allow myself. And by drinking only locally distilled stuff I support local business. It’s a win-win situation, if you ask me.
An ancient empire stands on the brink of a civil war.
His arrival may push it over the edge.
It is the sixteenth year of Queen Victoria’s enlightened rule and the world trembles before the might of her ironclad navy and the dreaded Dragon Corps. The largest ship ever built sails from the Brigstow Harbour on a journey to the mysterious lands of Orient. Its load – a regiment of the Royal Marines and one Bran ap Dylan – freshly graduate in Dracology at the Llambed Academy of Mystic Arts.
In the empire of Yamato, sealed from the rest of the world for the last two centuries, a wizard’s daughter Sato witnesses her father joining an anti-government conspiracy. Her friend Nagomi, training to be a priestess, is haunted by dark visions that she must keep secret. Neither of them is aware that a change is coming to Yamato… on the wings of a dragon.
A detailed and fast-paced historical fantasy based around the turbulent opening of Japan to the West in the middle of the 19th century, “The Shadow of the Black Wings” is the first volume in “The Year of the Dragon” saga. The second volume, “The Warrior’s Soul“, is expected in August.
**Please note that guest posts and columns reflect the opinions of the individual author and not The Indie Exchange as a whole. Also note, The Indie Exchange uses affiliate links to offset the costs of hosting etc.**
Latest posts by Donna Brown (see all)
- Join our social network! - May 19, 2013
- The Great Gatsby Infographic - May 13, 2013
- Christine Nolfi: Launch Your Book with Great Reviews - January 31, 2013
I like the 2 laptops…is one for research and one for writing? Because that's a cool idea, if so. :) I write on my bed sometimes, too….I get sick of sitting at a desk all day. Thanks for sharing!