Hugo Smienk

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

I was born a restless soul, and traveling helps me satisfy that wanderlust. Additionally, I spend a lot of time reading, partly because we don't have a TV. I'm also passionate about red wine and writing.

When and why did you start writing books?

Forty years ago, I wrote my first book, based on a diary of our travels. It took two decades until 2006 when I created my first published book, followed by several more. Lastly, my memoir, which is available right now.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

Enjoying my early retirement around the age of 45, the urge to create became too strong to ignore, and thus, I started writing. I haven't stopped since.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

A Dutch novel that drew the attention of filmmakers twice, it's a bit of a noir story, and the protagonist, 'Louis,' is probably my favorite. Unfortunately, this book is out of print, as it has been quite some time since it was first released.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

The Broken Traveler is by far the hardest book I've ever created.

Who is your favourite author and book?

Carl Hiaasen's 'Double Whammy' holds a special place for me. Perhaps it's because, at one point, I lived just one town over from the author, but mostly because I love Florida.

What book are you reading right now?

A spiritual book, published in another language and largely unknown to many, yet it holds deep guidance within its pages.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

They unfold themselves like a film, and I cherish the struggle, the countless hours spent working with editors and others to create.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Mostly, I'm fixing up the old camper and planning our next travel adventures.

Do you have any new books in the works?

Yes, it's one that my editor keeps nagging me about, but so far I only have the outlines. It's coming along, though.