Mary Shelly (Author of Frankenstein), Bram Stoker (Author of Dracula) and J.R.R.Tolkien (Author of Lord oft he rings).
I think understanding the original intentions of the authors when writing their novels would make an amazing conversation at the dinner table. Along with how they individually explore fear and how to create it through mounting tension throughout their manuscripts.
Don't forget if your struggling go for a walk or get some fresh air. Try writing for a minute non stop about whatever comes to your mind at the time then make a sentence from it. Just stay calm and don't give up!
