Nigel C Ferguson
Nigel C. Ferguson has published two novels while in his 70’s and 80’s and believes his life-long experiences and knowledge gained over eight decades has given him the ammunition to create the contemporary fiction he loves to write. His subjects are always well researched comprising discussion and comment on current issues of concern to those who give serious thought to how global, social and political events impact us all. And linked to these issues there is always an intelligent story plotted to perfection. A working life as a Chartered Accountant, entrepreneur and investor delayed the latent desire to write but perhaps the rewards from a life of commerce and industry may have been greater.
Nigel’s writing passion began from childhood in a family where the correct use of the English language was not only encouraged but pursued with vigour by an autocratic father. With four children and eleven grandchildren, all have benefited from from his many quirky stories, most of which have been home-printed and bound using a simple glue and tape system.
He continues to write from his sunny home in the hills above Akaroa, encouraged by his wife Nicky and inspired by the harbour and hill views, plus the gentle sound of native bird song.
Do you try more to be original, or to deliver to readers what they want?
I try to write in an original voice but with some influence from styles of a few well-known writers I admire. While it may be financially sound to deliver work that readers want, I have always avoided this.
What is it about your chosen genre that you love?
Writing contemporary fiction gives me the pleasure of researching current and recent events in depth, in order to sift through what might hold more of the truth than some media announcements claim. Weaving events and happenings into a fictitious tale, enables me to let my creative side run wild.
How do you select the names of your characters?
Selecting character names is an important aspect of the writing process. A reader does not wish to stumble continuously throughout with a long and difficult-to-pronounce name. I prefer simple English names where possible and have even used that of a close relative with a short name and striking features and replicated her as character.
How did publishing your first book change your writing process?
My first novel, Almost Persuaded, was written in third person. Those close to me could hear my voice loud and clear in my writing. I chose first person for my main character Harry, in my latest novel, The Benefactor’s Son and strangely, though without real effort, I was able to convey a very different voice for Harry Trimble Jr. who was desperate to prove his father had no ulterior motives in his global actions.
How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
I have a number of children’s books and poems unpublished but finished. All are worthy of publishing and have been well-received by my children and grandchildren.