Jane Ireland lives on rural outskirts of the beautiful river city of Brisbane. A voracious reader and writer, early retirement gave her space and time to pen three plot and character-driven novels. Emigree (2020) and Niche (2022) form a duology of stand-alone books blending historical fiction with magic realism: The Crying Tree Series.
A former nurse, Jane also supervised volunteers in children's hospitals. She achieved a post-graduate degree in education, and has taught and tutored diverse students. Her professional background and current volunteer role supporting people who are struggling, position her well to write her latest psychological suspense thriller, Field of View, which examines people who feel they don't belong. The novel's setting mirrors a seaside resort town where she once lived and continues to visit.
Jane has read excerpts of her novels at bookstores, writers workshops and a writers symposium. She has received writing awards and is a proud member of Queensland Writers Centre, where she has attended workshops, classes and presentations, and Writers Rendezvous in Dayboro.
Field of View is set to be released in 2027.
What inspired you to be a writer?
As a reader, I've always loved being totally immersed in quality books, with multi-dimentional characters, settings that provoke visceral feelings, intriguing plot lines that push that forward momentum. I never wanted those stories to end. Being a natural dabbler in writing, my aim was to create books that didn't fall flat. I also wanted to tackle topical issues, and explore character flaws, in evocative settings that could almost have lives of their own.
What prompted you to write 'Field of View'?
Field of View started with the idea of an event I knew would make a cracker of an inciting incident. To my mind, said event would meld naturally with a picturesque location dear to me. I found the premise of event and setting being so mismatched to be a juicy premise. I wanted to exploit the juxtaposition between darkness and light, and place characters in settings and situations they would normally avoid. What effects would emerge? Fast forward... I'm pleased with how the story evolved.
Do you have any more books in the pipeline?
My niggling little muse has been whispering in my ear lately. My next book may explore the mysteries of consciousness, the supernatural, and perhaps even other dimensions. Some of the story could be set overseas. I might inject some magic realism, as I did with The Crying Tree Series, my previous duology. It's fun to play with that genre!
What is your professional background?
Having spent years in healthcare and education, I retired early and was immediately seized by the writing bug. Writing courses and and the odd award fed my passion. My weary mind now buzzes in overdrive with plot points. Notebooks overflow with 3am scribbles holding crucial alerts like the pros and cons of using an Oxford comma in a particular sentence — big fan, by the way.
Currently, I'm also busy with charity work, supporting people on the streets who often struggle with poverty, isolation and alienation.
Any advice you’d like to give to aspiring writers?
Feed your fire; something is burning in you for a reason. Learn the basics of writing and start your journey. Persevere! Join a writers group of people you trust. Hold on to those little gems of praise and encouragement you receive. Prepare for constructive criticism from beta readers. If several people highlight the same problem in your writing, consider accepting it and modify accordingly. Words are precious, but you don't always need them all. Less is often more, and a good cull can do wonders. Be brave and honest in your writing, always. Even if writing only for yourself, it can be a cathartic experience.
Who/what inspires you?
Life inspires me. It's fascinating that every person, creature, and plant has a unique story, and we will barely scratch the surface of knowing, let alone understanding, any of them. So many stories to uncover and imagine! Writing inspires me to delve into people's psyche. Earth is a glorious place, and writing holds me up to do justice to the majesty of our surroundings.
I am inspired by people who persevere, despite obstacles. My mother was one such person.
Our beautiful world has become volatile. I respect those who speak out against oppression. Every little voice and deed can make an impact globally.
What are your hobbies, interests and favourite books?
Travel is my passion. Cold weather brings a smile to my face. As does paddling along a shoreline enveloped in a brisk, salty sea breeze. I get a spring in my step from long bush walks amongst ancient trees and fairy glens (I want to believe!). And waterfalls!
Like me, my favourite books are an eclectic mix: 'I Capture the Castle', Dodie Smith, 'Tin Man', Sarah Winman,,'Before You Knew My Name', Jacqueline Bublitz, 'All the Birds, Singing', Evie Wyld, 'Infinite Splendours', Sofie Laguna, 'When Things are Alive They Hum', Hannah Bent. The writing of Donna Tartt and Robbie Arnott.
The best book I've read on writing is Lee Kofman's 'The Writer Laid Bare: Emotional Honesty in a Writer's Art, Craft and Life'. Priceless advice about being brave, honest, and bringing depth to your writing.
How can readers contact you?
I have a new website! https://www.jirelandauthor.com.au
Facebook: @janiewriter
Instagram: @janehirelandpens
If you're a real person who hasn't used AI to try to impress me with your infinite knowledge of my books, and you're not Stephen King or JK Rowling or someone equally untouchable (not saying it wouldn't be amazing if true). And if you have no unscrupulous agenda, then welcome! Let's talk.
