Red Daisy by Gemma Owen-Kendall

I am thrilled to be part of the tour for the new novel, Red Daisy by Gemma Owen-Kendall arranged by Lynsey Adams of Reading Between the Lines. The author is an exciting new signing to SpellBound Books Ltd and the novel, Red Daisy which was published in the summer of 2024 is a gripping take on the traditional fairy tale, Little Red Riding Hood. The author recently took time to chat with me about her passion for writing and her work. Let me share our chat with you.

Thank you for inviting me to your blog today Val. It gives me an opportunity to tell your readers about my writing, particularly, Red Daisy.

What inspired you to write your most recent book?

I originally started writing Red Daisy some time ago when I had an epiphany whilst driving. I was wearing a red coat and the idea just came to me about writing my own version of Red Riding Hood. I've always been inspired by the works of Stephenie Meyer, the author of The Twilight Saga.

Who is your favourite character in this book and why?

My favourite character in this book would have to be Grace. She's very similar to me as I not only have strong emotions but am also very sensitive. It's wonderful how my character of Grace does grow as the story goes on.

What was the first piece you had published?

The first pieces I had published would be a couple of short stories titled 'Him' & 'The Old Barge.' Both of these short stories were first published in an anthology titled Monday At Six in 2017. This was put together with the evening college course I went to that year and was our class's final project.

Do you have another story planned or in progress?

I'm currently working on book two for Red Daisy, this is titled Black Rose and will be published by SpellBound Books Ltd..

Who is your favourite author?

The wonderful Stephenie Meyer who wrote The Twilight Saga series.

What do you like to do when you’re not planning or writing your next book?

Go to the gym and try squeeze some reading into my daily routine. 

When did you know you wanted to write novels?

Since I was a child, I loved writing stories at primary school. 

Do you write in other genres?

Romance.

What do you like most about being an author?

Being creative and sharing my stories with potential new readers.

Do you have a specific routine for writing?  Is there a special place or particular tool you use?

I have a tiny spare bedroom at home that I use to write and be creative. Away from any distractions.

What advice do you have for other writers?

Just keep on writing, don't ever give up and don't let anyone tell you that you can't write a book. If you have a manuscript in place, finish that first draft before going back over and reading everything through and editing it to the highest standard you can before submitting it.

If your book were to be made into an Audiobook, who would you choose to read it?

Britney Spears

If your book were to be made into a movie, who would you like to play the main character?

Millie Bobby-Brown

The Author

Gemma is a writer from North East Lincolnshire, UK. Graduated at the University of Lincoln in 2009, she studied a degree in Drama. However years later Gemma has discovered writing is her hobby and passion. She hopes to one day to be able to go back to University to study creative writing. As well as her own writing, Gemma is a huge supporter of authors and runs a writing group for writers within her local area.