Write On! interviews authors George Brown and Eric Conway

George Brown and Eric Conway are the writers behind the author pseudonym, Frank Francis. Their debut novel, Deliver Us From Evil, was published by Bloodhound Books in November 2023.

George and Eric’s writing story is an uncommon one, as the two hadn’t even met when Eric first approached George with the idea for the novel, back in late 2021. Despite living on opposite sides of the world, George and Eric co-wrote the book together and are planning to continue their partnership for future novels.

WO: How would you describe your writing to someone new to it?

GB: Our work is predominantly in the historical fiction genre, and we like to write mystery or thriller narratives, often based on famous world events or historical figures, but with a new twist.

EC: I’d like to think that our ideas are all grounded in lots of research into the subject we’re writing on, which gives the novels authenticity. And then the style of the writing is fast-paced and filled with suspense, with our aim always being to encourage the reader to keep turning the page!

WO: Can you tell us a bit about your latest book, Deliver Us From Evil?

EC: Deliver Us From Evil is a manifestation of my interest in President Kennedy’s assassination. Using my knowledge on this topic, I imagined a new scenario behind the assassination, understanding JFK as a man eager to inspire others by becoming not just a politician, but a legend.

GB: Our protagonist is a young journalist, Maureen Finn. As she investigates JFK’s assassination, she realises that her father, who she hardly knew, is not the hero that she believed he was. This allows the reader to relate to the story and characters, as most of us at times face situations where our beliefs are challenged by the reality of life. The question we’re asking is: “Should you let the truth spoil the dream?”

WO: What inspired you to write in the first place, and what inspires you now?

EC: As an avid reader, I’ve come across many stories, but I realised my perspectives on certain topics have not always been explored by other writers. Since completing Deliver Us From Evil, the responses we’ve received from the readers and literary community inspire me to keep imagining new stories.

GB: For me, writing has always been an escape of some kind. I know this is a cliché, but it’s a cliché for a reason. I’m never happier than when I’m totally engrossed in the world I’m describing. It’s as if time stops and I can lose myself completely in the story. Obviously, it’s so exciting to see your work actually in print and to see people enjoying reading it, but that central motivation will never change. 

WO: A previous theme we have explored in Write On! is ‘Overcoming’. This can mean anything from difficult times in your life to beating the dreaded writers’ block. In your experience, what has been the best way to overcome these barriers when trying to write?

GB: In terms of the obstacles that stop people finishing, or even starting, writing, I think it’s really a matter of perseverance and motivation. If you really want to write something, there should be nothing stopping you, regardless of what else you’ve got going on in your life. I know that’s probably very unhelpful, but it’s all about your mindset. If you’re looking for an excuse, you’ll find one. So don’t!

EC: To convince myself my story was worth writing, I selectively shared it with my family and friends and asked for their feedback throughout the process. Their comments helped me to revise, alter and refocus the story. To my surprise, most people in my circle were happy to provide their insights and even encouragement. My piece of advice would be to select carefully who you want to reach out to and pick avid readers, as the chances of getting their support is high.

GB: One final thing to mention is that this is where the co-authoring process is so valuable. Whenever we became stuck on a plot point, or perhaps even when Eric and I disagreed over something, we’d have a call to bounce ideas off each other. That collaborative process is so useful, as another voice or opinion can often unlock a new angle.

WO: What one piece of advice would you give an aspiring writer?

EC: I would give three pieces of advice for an inspiring writer: cultivate a habit for reading, keep a journal, and start by writing short stories. Reading helps us to understand what we like, what inspires us and, most importantly, what we think is missing in a book. Writing a journal on a regular basis is a very doable and valuable exercise that helps your writing skills shape up. Starting with a short story provides the fulfilment of having put together a finished work.

GB: Eric’s gone down the practical route with some excellent tips, so I’ll go more philosophical! I think a really valuable message is that you become a better writer with each new thing you write. This is enhanced even further by trying different genres and formats. Don’t always worry about what becomes of them, because you’ll have learned something new each time.

WO: Question from Instagram user: @madeleinefwhite Do you have any top tips for writers looking to collaborate?

EC: I think successful collaboration is about the chemistry between two individuals. As with any other relationship, there’s an element of mystery as to why a collaboration succeeds or fails.

I believe our partnership is built on two things:

Firstly, we each bring a specific attribute which adds value (e.g., writing skills, imagination) and secondly, we are both prepared to sacrifice our egos for the sake of the story.

GB: My tips would be to recognise, and respect, what each of you brings to the table, and lean into those strengths. Once of the disadvantages of writing by yourself is that you can become blind to any weaknesses in your work. Collaborating means you have a partner to point them out, and that’s something to really celebrate!

WO: Can you tell us anything about future projects?

Both: Our new book is inspired by the incredible story of the Mitford sisters in the 1930s and ’40s. This historical thriller will be centred around the Munich agreement in 1938, how people reacted to it and, most importantly, what people were ready to do to ensure their cause would triumph.

We were inspired by the fact that, even in this dramatic time, people were bouncing from tragedy to partying, from family values to betrayal. Like in Deliver Us From Evil, the ending is completely unexpected.

By bringing a fresh outlook to the beginning of the second world war, we aim to change the perception most readers will have of this period.

WO: Lastly, if you could choose one fictional animal/creature to be a pet or companion, who would it be and why?

EC: Does a goddess count as a creature? If it does, I would choose two of the Greek Muses: Thalia, muse of comedy, and Melpomene, muse of tragedy. I don’t think you could find better companions to keep your motivation high and inspire you!

GB: Eric has gone highbrow, so I’m going contemporary. I read Nathaniel Ian Miller’s The Memoirs Of Stockholm Sven last year and loved it, and that features a very loyal dog called Eberhard, who is basically the titular character’s only companion for months on end in the Arctic winter. If Eberhard can survive that, living with me should be a doddle!

You can find out more about George Brown here: george-f-brown.com/ and connect with them on Instagram: @george_f_brown

Deliver Us From Evil is available to buy on Amazon.

 

 

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