Emerging writers can tend to worry more about publishing than finishing the book (which she says is ‘ totally human to get obsessed and worry about‘).

Blocks two ‘golden hours’ into her diary.Uses Chrome Nanny or other tools to lock herself out of her browser.Does ‘fast drafting’ in blocks (especially is she has a residency such as at Falls Creek or Varuna).Dealing with success ( Have I got success?!).Having an agent (Kelly is now represented by Danielle Binks & Jacinta diMase).Writing historical fiction (including ‘walking the ground’ for research).Using social media ( KG: There is no better professional development or professional networking tool (especially for introverts) than Twitter.‘.The writing for children community ( KG:In kids and YA, even if you don’t know somebody, you will promote their book when it comes out) and meeting Margaret Mahy ).The journey to publishing her first book Oceans Without End – the first in her Swashbuckler trilogy.Being part of a writing course, as a student and now a teacher.

Kelly teaches creative and professional writing at La Trobe University and is the co-host of Unladylike, a podcast about women and writing. Kelly’s other books include Act of Faith and The Sultan’s Eyes, both of which were shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards and Goddess, based on the life of the seventeenth century French swordswoman, Mademoiselle de Maupin. Her previous novel, 1917, was shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s Young People’s History Prize. Her latest book is Brimstone, the first in her Firewatcher trilogy for middle grade readers. Kelly Gardiner is a writer, editor and educator.

Act of faith kelly gardiner