Nourhan Hassan, also known as Nour Alhassan, author of the book Love Stories Short, has an extensive ability for mastering various fields, such as sports, journalism, and relationship coaching. Her love for writing began in her teenage years. Following her early passion, she then worked as a journalist for various magazines.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
When I was in high school, all I could think about was getting a book published. I took my English literature classes seriously and I attended at least two book clubs a week as a way to educate myself more about the subject and to learn about writing styles.
How long does it take you to write a book?
Well, it takes me a long time to plan a book, and then about 5 months to write it. You see, when you write a book, you go through various stages. First, you have to select a topic to write about, and that takes about 2 weeks for me. Second, you have to decide what format works best for this topic, such as a novel, self-help book, or short story. Third, you write it, and that is the longest stage. Finally, you need to send it to a publishing company. This last stage is so important that you need to pick wisely.
How do you pick the right publishing company?
It depends. Some authors do not like to use the traditional publishing process and decide to go solo, which is known as self-publishing. This is easier but can be a little pricey. Also, you need to be hundred percent sure that your book is well-edited and proofread properly, because you will not enjoy the benefits of using a traditional publisher, who will get your manuscript edited and proofread by experts.
What is Love Stories Short about?
My book is about relationships, how to maintain them and when to terminate them. It gives readers some background ideas about what love is and when they can be sure that they are with the right partner. I introduce all that and more in a series of three short stories. After each story, I give them some insights and explain why the problems occurred in the relationship, how the couple could have fixed them, and so on. It is like a mini instruction manual for relationships.
What inspired you to write the book?
To be honest, during my relationship coaching career, I have been so disappointed by people. Many choose the wrong partner, and there is a ton of miscommunication in most relationships, which can lead to a breakup or even divorce, so that is why I decided to play my part by guiding people as much as I could.
Which is your favorite season to write in?
Winter, especially if it is snowing. That ambiance gives me a sense of warmth. I like sitting beside the fireplace drinking hot cocoa while writing.
What is the best relationship advice you can give to people?
Choose right and do not settle until you find the one, even if it takes you years of searching. True love is so rare. Never give up or think that you will not be lucky enough to find the right one because you may be not wise enough to recognize them.
