ME THEN:

I’ve always loved books. You can thank my Nan for that. A day out with her would involve going to the local library where everyone knew her name and always had the newest book saved under the counter for her, and we’d emerge an hour later with a stack as tall as me. When we got back to the farm, she’d toss the books in the tumble dryer so the dogs and the geese couldn’t get at them (there’d been a few book-casualties in the past), and then, later on, she’d pull one out, slide it across the table and say, “Try this, Gen. The author’s really good. Their books are a bit scary…so don’t tell your mum”. And I’d get that little flutter of excitement in my belly.

But reading books wasn’t enough. I wanted to be a writer.

Imposter syndrome held me hostage for many years. Was I too old? Too inexperienced? Could I really do it? The impossible dream. But there was also another tiny voice: you’re driven; you’re hardworking; you’re determined. Is there a book in me? YES, there’s a book in me. There are loads!

In 2013 when I was thirty-years-old, I moved to Switzerland to start a new chapter in my life.

ME NOW:

I write every day. I’ve never been happier.

Since 2013 I have thrown myself into all things writing. I’ve studied, workshopped, devoured craft books, practiced, practiced, practiced. I’ve experimented with genre; I unearthed a love for Middle Grade fiction. I’ve discovered a community of likeminded writers and found fellow people passionate about the craft that I’m lucky to call my friends. I’m always learning; I’ll never stop learning.

Naming my favourite books is an impossible task. As a kid, I journeyed through the Goosebumps books, then Point Horror, before I graduated to adult horror – so those books will always be dear to my heart, and to this day I’m still chasing the next spooky-book-high.

When not writing (and if I’m not reading): I love art, painting, and crafting. I’m a happy geek and will binge-watch the heck out of the Lord of the Rings (extended, always), Star Wars (especially The Mandalorian!), Doctor Who, Supernatural, The X-Files, anything Marvel, all Disney. I love action movies: talk to me about Die Hard, John Wick, and anything from the 90’s. I’m a lifelong Manchester United fan, I love Formula 1 (Go Lewis!), and snooker. And I’m a passionate advocate of ocean conservation.

MY FUTURE

I’m lucky to have found something that makes me truly happy in life and know that whatever lies ahead – my constant will be writing. As for the future… I’m writing it now.