J A Pritchard

Ever since I was 7 years old I have had an obsession with the dark and macabre undertones in children's stories, always wanting the witch or the big bad wolf to win. When I first started writing I endeavoured to bring something different to a potential reader - whether thats making you feel repulsed or wrenching at your heart strings - or even better - making you ask "what on earth have I just read". My first novel took me over five years to complete and publish, and was shortlisted for an e-book award. I am a huge fan of psychological short stories & prose (both admiring and attempting). After a few years in freelance journalism, I now write part time whilst studying for my law degree.

Credentials

J A Pritchard in 60 seconds

When did you start writing?

2002 Devon

What do you love about short stories?

People never have any spare time these days - short stories allow a few moments of much needed escape

Do you write in other forms?

Novels, poems, screenplays, prose

What distracts you from writing?

Netflix (and other study)

Outside of writing, what are your other passions?

Meditation

What is your favourite book?

House of Leaves

Who are your favourite writers?

James Everington, Jack Ketchum and J R R Tolkien

Where is your dream location?

Tibet

What one item would you put into Room 101?

People looking at their phones while talking to you

Do you have any advice for new writers?

Enjoy what you write - do it so you can play god and create worlds - NOT to make money