Elaine Hastings

Shaped by her love and experiences of the 90s music scene, we spoke to Kingston author Elaine Hastings about writing her debut novel, When We Were Young.

What inspired you to write your first novel?

“The deaths of musicians like Kurt Cobain and Jeff Buckley have stayed with me since the 90s. I’m fascinated how artists can become legendary once they’re no longer with us, how we search their lyrics for meaning. Writing a novel was always something I’ve wanted to do; it was only after reaching a significant birthday I decided to give it a go.”

How was the process? Did you enjoy it?

“It’s been a long road with plenty of ups and downs. Once I refined how I talked about the book, things started to click. Submitting to publishers was another lesson in patience, but when I got a two-book deal with Harper Collins, it made all the waiting worth it.”

Favourite song that takes you back to that special time?

“It’s hard to pick just one song. Back then, we listened to whole albums in the order they were meant to be heard, not in 30-second TikTok snippets! If I had to choose, Hummer by the Smashing Pumpkins is my favourite song of the 90s – probably of all time.” 

Any advice to others considering writing their own book?

“The best advice I’ve learned is to just sit down and write, even if it’s only a little each day. If you’re serious about getting published, find your hook that will draw readers in. It’s not easy to pin down, but will help shape your book and give it the best chance of finding a home.”

If you were to sum up your book in three words…

“Emotional, bittersweet, nostalgic. The feelings I hope readers will carry with them after turning the last page.”

Author Event, Books on the Rise
Wednesday 17 September
80 Hill Rise, Richmond, TW10 6UB

Elaine’s autumn picks

River of Stars by Georgina Moore

“A local author whose novel is inspired by Eel Pie Island and it’s colourful 1960s history as a hub for music and artists. An atmospheric story of music, love and community on the Thames.”

All the Colours of the Dark by Chris Whitaker

“A sweeping coming-of-age mystery, an epic love story and a gripping thriller all in one. I can’t wait to dive in.”

Heart the Lover by Lily King

“I adored Writers and Lovers and I’ve heard this one is beautifully emotional. Exactly the kind of book I love to get lost in as the nights draw in.”
elainehastingsauthor.com
@ehastingswrites