What inspired Glasgow Boys?

The pandemic was a massive motivating factor. I wanted to put working-class Scottish culture on the page in a way I hadn't really seen before - by exploring issues like masculinity, trauma and human connection through the eyes of two teenage boys. At its heart it's about connection – and the lack of it.

How long did it take to write?

Although the idea developed over time, once I committed to the novel I couldn't stop writing. In total, the first draft took around six months, followed by another year of editing.

But throughout this period, I just had this gut feeling it was one of the best things I'd written. It became like my favourite TV show – I couldn't wait to get back to it.

How did you create the characters of Banjo and Finlay?

I deliberately placed my two protagonists, Banjo and Finlay, in very different situations.

Banjo is angry, defensive and living in care. Finlay is starting university and feels completely isolated in an unfamiliar world.

By doing this, I was able to explore how trauma shapes people differently.

Take Banjo as an example. We unravel his character through flashbacks, learning about the abuse he experienced before entering care. It was fascinating to explore how violence had become one of the few ways he knew to express himself.

Is editing easy?

Editing is often the hardest part.

I'm a major overwriter. The first draft was about 120,000 words – around 600 pages – before it was cut almost in half. You have to be ruthless. You might love a scene, but if it isn't moving the story forward, it has to go.

Editors are absolutely key. They look at the content with a fresh eye. They haven’t just spent months writing it, they’re not emotionally attached to the copy or characters, so they can really strengthen key parts of the novel.

Why was authenticity so key to this story?

Research was central to writing Glasgow Boys.

Although I haven't experienced the care system myself, I drew on conversations with social workers, healthcare professionals, a therapist who grew up in care and a sensitivity reader.

As long as you write for the right reasons and do your research thoroughly, you can write about experiences beyond your own – but it's vital to make sure they're represented accurately.

Is it easy to get published?

Unfortunately not. I received numerous rejections before publication. It’s a massive part of the process and should be expected. Art is subjective, so not everyone will connect with your work. The feedback, however, did help me make the story stronger.

Why did you decide to cover mental health?

Mental health is a central theme in Glasgow Boys and is something many young people are facing. Anxiety doesn't disappear after one conversation, and healing isn't linear. 

When Banjo and Finlay struggle with anxiety or low self-esteem, it's the people around them who help lift them up. I hope readers take away that mental health requires understanding, patience and compassion. 

What's next?

Although many readers have asked if there is going to be a sequel,  there are currently no plans.

I think the story ends where it needs to. I like leaving readers with something to wonder about and I have many more projects I would like to pursue.