Susan Westwood – I used to make up stories for my grandchildren and that is when I decided to submit one of my stories

Before I became a published author, I was an administrator for many years in the care industry.

Jonathan Stanyer | I always dreamed about being a successful writer.

I was particularly encouraged at junior and middle school to develop my response to ideas but my poor handwriting was often a hindrance to being understood.

J. L. Engel – I hope my novel inspires my daughter to pursue whatever she may become passionate about

We recently had the pleasure of talking to our author, Jeremy Engel – author of the new crime/thriller – A Dangerous Man. 

We asked him some questions about how he started writing, why he chose to write a thriller and if he has any aspirations to write another book! 

Celebrating Black History Month. #BHM

To celebrate Black History Month, we would like to shine a spotlight on some of our talented black authors.

Leon Thomas – Why LGBTQ+ representation in children’s books is so important

This month we have the fortune of interviewing Leon Thomas, illustrator of Missing Letters: An Alphabet Book. Leon is a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and in honour of pride month, agreed to a short interview!

World Autism Awareness Day | Grazy Guru

Today is World Autism Awareness Day. We had the pleasure of talking to Grazy Guru author of The Erple People: New Child, who has high functioning autism. We talk about how he overcame the hurdles in his life to become a published author and illustrator. 

Matthew Alec | Writing is something so personal and important

I have only recently begun to answer the question ‘what do you do for a job’ with ‘I am an Author’ because it seems so surreal! You spend years trying to get to this point and now it’s here you become incredibly bashful!

Vera Hemsley | Our Tribute and Interview

We were very saddened to hear about the passing of our talented author, Vera Hemsley. She was such a light to our team, always sending us heartwarming and often hilarious stories to keep our spirits high. Our PR team were lucky enough to interview Vera before her passing, so we’re honoured to share it here. 

Peter Bell | I thought about becoming a writer many times

This week we are proud to feature Peter Bell, author of Bob…. Peter speaks today about his writing journey, how he started the publishing process and his advice to aspiring authors!

Caroline Henton | I had an active imagination when I was growing up

“I had an active imagination when I was growing up, so from the minute I was able, I was writing stories and poems to share with friends and family. Growing up in Portsmouth, there was a strong military link and for me, a real felt sense of closeness to France, two of the biggest influences which came into play when I came up with the idea of ‘Little Creatures’ later on in life”

Reka Hall | The book was inspired by my daughter

This week we are proud to feature Reka Hall, author of When Millypop and Her Mummy Visited Ice Cream Land…. Reka speaks today about her writing journey, how she started the publishing process and her advice to aspiring authors!

John Warren – I wanted children to continue to pursue this type of play through their imagination rather than being a slave to an electronic screen

“People will ask me two questions when they found out I have written a book and they are why did I do it and how did I come up with the idea?”

Words, just words | Ashutosh

We were lucky enough to receive a wonderful author feature from our author, Ashutosh. Today he speaks about his writing journey, a history of his works and a taster from his book, Vida.

Liam Ward | I suddenly hatched an idea to write a children’s book with a feminist theme and an inspirational message to children

Liam Ward recently moved from New Zealand to the Republic of Ireland to pursue his ambition of becoming a writer of children’s fiction. Liam likes to base his writing around morals and inspirational messages to his readers. Check out Liam’s writing journey, in his own words!

Cynthia Langenberg | My life has grown with new ideas since being published

“After working hard at rescuing several cats in need I felt an obligation to bring awareness to the plight and suffering of starving, abandoned felines” – Read more of Cynthia’s story here!

Les Fields | The writing process was both an absolute delight and an emotional catharsis.

“One day, while having lunch in the wine country with some old college friends, I was sharing stories from my diving career. A stranger from a near by table stopped by on her way out of the restaurant. She apologized for eaves dropping but flat out encouraged me to write these stories for other to read. This had happened on other occasions as well”

Nadine Abu Treef | New sparks ignited in my mind

Ever since I was little, I always had big dreams to fulfil. Some of them were to be a pilot, yet as I grew older, new sparks ignited in my mind.   At some point in my childhood, I became interested in the English language. I thought that it was a magical language and I […]

Jamar Collins | One day I realized I wanted to become a writer

One day I realized I wanted to become a writer because I knew I had an interesting story to tell and writing was one of my biggest hobbies. I remember when I was still in school, I would always be excited when my teacher told us to write a story. I never got that excitement […]

Lesley York | I was so excited about my new book couldn’t wait to tell everyone!

I found school very difficult when I was young, especially reading and spelling I would cry saying I can’t do it but my dad kept on trying with me even as an adult it was hard, but in my late twenty’s I took it on myself to go to English classes, and this is where […]

Simon Boreham | Writing Poems for over 20 years

We were lucky enough to receive a wonderful author feature from our author, Simon Boreham. Today Simon speaks about his writing journey, a history of his works and a taster from The Joyfinder.

Cathy Blasonato | My inspiration was coming from my life’s experiences

We hope everyone is staying safe and well in quarantine. We were lucky enough to receive a wonderful author story from Cathy Blasonato, who authored ‘Shanti’s Story: A Tail of Love and Magic’ with Dean Rawlings. Cathy speaks today about her writing journey, how she started the publishing process and her advice to aspiring authors!

Trevor Smith | My love of nature and the countryside began when I was a young boy

We recently spoke to our author, Trevor Smith about the beautifully illustrated children’s book: A Stoat Called Longfellow. Trevor talks about his love of nature, his book and hopes and dreams.

Alana Parker | I couldn’t wait to tell my friends and family!

We hope everyone is staying safe and well in quarantine. We were lucky enough to receive a wonderful author story from Alana Parker, author of Tess of the Locks. Alana speaks today about her writing journey, how she started the publishing process and her advice to aspiring authors!

Paul Wesel | I just kept a file of rhyming words and phrases

This week we are happy to feature Paul Wesel author of ‘If It’s Funny for a Bunny’. Paul speaks today about his life, writing journey and how he started the publishing process!

Charlotte West | I was always scribbling and writing anything that popped into my head

This week we are proud to feature Charlotte West, author of Growth. Charlotte speaks today about her writing journey, how she started the publishing process and her advice to aspiring authors!

Brandon Russom | I want to share my imagination with the world

This week we are proud to feature Brandon Russom, author of Balthazar Bunny and the Quest for Slicey, Slicey, Cut, Cut. Brandon speaks today about his writing journey, how he started the publishing process and his advice to aspiring authors!

Aries | I really want the world to see this!

“I never thought I’d publish a poetry book. I’ve loved reading and writing from a young age but poetry was never something I was super passionate about until I turned 16. Before that, I wrote songs, and still do write. My single ‘Blue Summer’ just released and I have more songs ready, and I don’t think my songs would be what they are today without the poetry.”

J. Scott Kirk | I have wanted to be a writer since attending elementary school!

This week we are proud to feature J. Scott Kirk, author of Fractions with My Chameleon. Mr. Kirk speaks today about his writing journey, how he started the publishing process and his advice to aspiring authors!

Elaine Mercieca | I wrote the story 5 years before I sent it off!

“My book is my thank you to the world and I hope it inspires all who read it, children and adults alike to prioritize self-love for health and happiness. I haven’t ruled out writing more children’s books!” – Read more from Elaine Mercieca about her writing journey now!

Albert Garcia | Once I finished and went over it a million times I then decided to seek a publisher

This week we are proud to feature Albert Garcia, author of Burgos: Our Football Adventure. Albert speaks today about his writing journey, how he started the publishing process and his advice to aspiring authors!

Joanna Scott | Opening my books left me stunned

“My writing really began with a poem called die for a drink, it later became part of a collection I wrote about bullies which I started to have published. It never worked out, but I never gave up. I had long term poisoning which affected my mental health so I was unable to think clearly or read, that is why it meant so much to write this and have it win in a competition”

Kym Penhall | I never had the courage to submit anything to a publishing house before. I’m glad I finally did.

“I have always enjoyed writing, for me it has been a way to both express myself and also to relax. Admittedly it is a relaxation peppered with long bouts of self-doubt and frustration, but the joy of reading something that you have crafted yourself, something that has flow and meaning, is immense”

Donna Mintey | When I completed my book I literally throw caution to the wind, and decided to be brave

‘I had a life-changing moment in 2007 where I was in a car accident, it left me with a lifelong disability which meant that I could no longer work as a Care Assistant. It was from that moment on that I decided life was too short and I wanted to follow my dream of being a published children’s book author and illustrator’ – read more about Donna’s writing journey on Author Hub!

Fin C Gray | Self-doubt is the enemy of the author

“Self-doubt is the enemy of the author, and I confess to being plagued by it most of my adult life. Ever since I was a young boy, I felt I wanted to write a book. As a pre-teen, I couldn’t stop myself reading everything I could get my hands on. It was my perfect escape from a childhood that was far from perfect” – Read more about Fin. C. Gray’s writing story, here!

Angy Tsafos | My heart burst with joy when I finally received my book

“Ever since I was a little girl, I have always enjoyed writing. My teachers used to read my stories to the class throughout secondary school. This used to fill me with both pride and embarrassment at being the nerdy child. Once I joined the corporate world of banking, I forgot all about this creative hobby of mine as the last thing I wanted to do after a long day at work was to sit down and write”.

Ian Bradley | I’m greatly enjoying the freedom to write about just what interests me

“I always wanted to write but growing up on a council estate in Post-War England, I never expected it to become a reality. It wasn’t until I emigrated to Australia as an unaccompanied twenty-year-old that I plucked up the courage to start submitting my work. The threat of failure is a lot less oppressive if nobody knows you”

Jo Thompson | I felt such a sense of achievement and pride

The talented Jo Thompson recently wrote a feature for us about her life as a writer, what made her want to write and how she spends her time now. A heartfelt look at her and her children’s own struggles with mental health and how she channelled it into her own writing.

Lauren Foreman | Believe in Yourself. You Could Be Surprised Just Where Your Writing Will Take You.

This week we are proud to feature Lauren Foreman, author of Polly Learns to Share. Lauren speaks today about her writing journey, how she started the publishing process and her advice to aspiring authors!

Howard McGee | I would say to anyone who is considering writing a book – just do it!

Happy Thursday everyone! It’s that time again to hear from one of our talented authors about their writing journey. This week, Howard McGee was kind enough to write us a feature. Enjoy!   I have always held a “quiet desire” to write since my early years but lacked a “story to tell” and to a […]

Kamalini Natesan | I first wrote it, over a period of many years, but in my head alone

It’s time for another edition of #AuthorStories! Today our feature is Kamalini Natesan, who was kind enough to write a wonderful piece about her writing journey. She talks about her journey in writing, her life and how her book came about! 

Ian Robert Bell | It is always a thrilling experience for any newly published writer

We were recently lucky enough to speak to the talented Ian Robert Bell, author of the book, Resurrection Blues! He spoke to us a little about his writing journey, how to overcome rejection, the process of the book and why he wrote it and his advice to any new and aspiring authors!

Jem Hughes | It’s great practice to continue reading your book multiple times

We were recently lucky enough to speak to the talented Jem T. Hughes, author of the gorgeous children’s book, Rae’s Coney Island Birthday Surprise! She spoke to us a little about her writing journey, the process of the book and why she wrote it and how she felt when he opened her box of books and held her book for the first time!

Ronald McGill | Giving a voice to my low-functioning autistic boy

We were recently lucky enough to speak to the talented Ron author of Three Royal Terrace. He spoke to us a little about his writing journey how he started writing for his family and how his autistic son inspired the book!

Catherine Rix | None of this seemed real until the morning a massive box of books arrived!

We were recently lucky enough to speak to the wonderful Catherine Rix, author of the hilarious book, Miss, Me Daddy Has Ya Knickers in His Pocket! She spoke to us a little about her writing journey, the process of the book and why she wrote it and what inspired her!

H. A. Cowan | Never in my wildest dreams ever imagined I would be a published author

We were recently lucky enough to speak to the talented H. A. Cowan, author of the charming fantasy novel, Zeelandia and the Gateway Stone! He spoke to us a little about his writing journey, the process of the book and why he wrote it and how he felt when he opened his box of books and held his novel for the first time!

David Stringer | I thought that now would be the perfect time to make a new start!

We were recently lucky enough to speak to the talented Dave Stringer, author of the charming children’s book, Charlie Jack! He spoke to us a little about his writing journey, how to overcome rejection, the process of the book and why he wrote it and his advice to any new and aspiring authors!

Charlotte Sebag-Montefiore | Guest Post | Rapunzel and the Wicked Witch

Today we’re proud to feature the wonderful Charlotte Sebag-Montefiore, author of the Who Am I? Book of Riddles series, and the soon-to-be-published Herbie and the T.rex!Charlotte has very kindly written a guest post in the form of a short story themed perfectly for Halloween, enjoy! 

Gul Ozseven | I was always an artistic person

When I started learning English at the age of twelve in English High School for Girls in my hometown Istanbul, I hardly knew I was to fall in love with English Language and English Literature for Life.I started writing poems four years later, won school competitions, etc. And upon graduation from Robert College High School in 1986, I received an ‘Excellence in English Award’, sharing it with a school mate who became a novelist later on.

Stephen J. Alexander | I went upstairs and penned my first piece of rhyming verse in nearly twenty-five years

My son was particularly crazy about the name “Pluto” at the time and was always asking me at bedtime what came after Pluto.So, that same afternoon, after the library while my wife looked after the kids in the garden, I went upstairs and penned my first piece of rhyming verse in nearly twenty-five years. At first, I named it after my son, as the story behind the rhyme is based in fact and is about my relationship with my boy.

Ronaye Hudyma | I am an accidental poet.

I am an accidental poet. I never followed the deliberate road of academia or institutions of higher learning, but like everything in life, one thing leads to another…You could say I have had three lifetimes.

Trevor Smith | My love of nature and the countryside began when I was a young boy

My love of nature and the countryside began when I was a young boy. I always had lots of pets and spent most of my free time in the local woods, bird-watching and building hides to observe wildlife a little closer. In later life I became a gamekeeper, which enhanced my love and knowledge of nature even more. During this time I kept notes of my observations on scraps of paper which I stored in a cardboard box.

Sultan Ayaz | Everyone has their own hero, mine is my mother

I always believed that writing is a process of converting pure emotions into written words, and I truly experience that when I was writing my novel, pouring all my emotions into it. What made me write the most is the urge feeling to express my emotions and imagination into words, so people can take a glimpse of what I feel, and what I think of, and somehow I believe that I succeeded.

Maha-Marie Dar | Everyone has the talent to create a beautiful story if only they put pen to paper

My love for history and literature comes hand in hand. I found reading historical & fiction books gave me an insight into events that occurred in the world along with creating imagination. This was displayed through works of renowned writers such as Shakespeare & Goethe, who made me realize that a good story would be recognized for many years.

Mark Roberts | It’s an overwhelming feeling of self-satisfaction and achievement

It was important for me to write about my experiences in the British Forces and as a security contractor.  Writing about where I have been and what I have seen gives me a chance to share good and bad experiences I have been through.

Luna Lloyd | You must respect the story idea, which flows to you

Being a writer needs focus, patience and hard-working. You must respect the story idea, which flows to you. Writing is the same as doing sports, you must do it even if you don’t have the mood for it. We are like painters; we paint with words.

Ryan Jeffcoat | What a journey, what a ride, what an absolute life experience

What a journey, what a ride, what an absolute life experience. My journey from a school dropout, to Police Officer, University student and now published author has been a momentous journey full of ups, downs and everything in between. The writing was not something that came naturally for me. Although I had done assignments whilst studying my diploma, I never really gave any thought to becoming a writer. It never even entered as a thought in my mind.

Les Fields | I intend to use my book as a means to increase the conversation about ocean ecology!

Through the book, I found a means by which to tell both diving stories and the story of clandestine activities associated with Cold War contract diving. When I first opened the box of books sent by Olympia I could not stop thinking, “the work is now just beginning”. My enthusiasm surged. I intend to use the book as a means to increase the conversation about ocean ecology. Author royalties are being shared with various non-profit environmental organizations. Accordingly, marketing efforts will be multilevel and active.

Kimberley Rowell | I decided to start writing a story for my daughter

This week we were lucky enough to speak to our talented children’s author, Kimberley Rowell. We spoke to her about her new book, Townie Spider, she spoke about her book, why she chose to write a children’s book and her life as an author.

Therese Sullivan | One day the words just flowed. I’d found my niche

In 2010 life, as I knew it took a sharp turn. It just took me 5 years to catch up! Let me explain: An incident at work caused me to suffer a Takot Subo Cardiomyopathy (a special kind of heart attack, if to survive you will make a full recovery). The trauma of the attack and consequent events took a toll far greater than I realised.

You Couldn’t Make it Up | Chris White

Picture the scene… A man, in his late twenties, staring at the large grey cloud looming on the horizon with 30 written on its side. It’s drifting closer and closer…

Robert Brown | Embrace Social Media!

We were lucky enough to have our talented author, Robert Brown, write a piece for us. He talks about his love of music, mixing both his taste in novels to his own sound and how he was published! Read on to hear from Robert himself and learn a little about his book, ‘A Song For The Silence’.

Helen Burke | Make Time To Write

This week we was lucky enough to speak to our talented children’s author, Helen Burke. She speaks about her book, ‘Billy’s Search For The Healing Well’, advice for aspiring authors and her publishing journey!

Jean Daish | I still hand-write letters to friends!

It’s time for another edition of #AuthorStories! Today our feature is Jean Daish, who was kind enough to write a wonderful piece about her writing journey. She talks about her love of the arts, her life and how and why she chose to be a writer!

Before the writing came the drawing. My Father teaching me, aged three, to draw a pram whilst sitting in my high chair in Grandma’s kitchen.

Joanne Bugeja | A writer, just like any star athlete should always be on top of their game

Writing has always been my one true passion. Pouring my thoughts on paper is soothing for the soul and is a powerful therapeutic resource especially when dealing with day to day stressors.

Taryn Leigh | Secrets I’ve Learnt Being a Published Author

I celebrate one year being published with my novel Perfect Imperfections and in the past year I’ve come to learn many things about the publishing world as well as the world of being an Author.

So to celebrate, I thought I would share some things with you about my journey to become a published author!

Penny Lees | My Publishing Journey

I have always loved writing and can still remember the joy of writing stories even as a child. I was very lucky to have a wonderful and inspirational English teacher in my secondary School and I think she was probably the first person to really instil in me a love of the written word. 

Meadow Griffin | I Grew Up Loving Books

I grew up loving books. I was absolutely fascinated with fantasy and science fiction stories, and became a voracious reader. My mother encouraged my love of reading and my artistic creativity.