A little about me...
Rather than give you my ‘I was born in London etc.’ life story, I thought I would share some insights into the book (and just a little about me).
When I started writing this book, I never intended for anyone to read it, let alone publish it. Fast forward three years, and I still wonder how I got here. But from somewhere deep within, I found a smidgen of courage and took the steps to turn it into an actual book.
I spend more time listening to music than watching TV, which is why the book has a musical theme. I need music to write, and I assigned a song to each scene to help create the mood.
I have a love-hate relationship with the protagonist, Saskia. She’s a bit ‘Marmite’. Scrap that, let’s say Vegemite given that she’s Australian.
I chose the name 'Caleb' because I'm a self-confessed Kings of Leon groupie... and actually, when I picture the character, it suits him, and I couldn't imagine him being called anything else. To name the other characters, I picked out names from the closing credits of my favourite TV show. If it suited them, I assigned the name.
My favourite actor is Hugh Grant, so he gets a mention.
Like Saskia, I eat far too much pizza.
It was challenging. There were many moments when I stared at the keys on my laptop willing the words to come, yet I was thankful for the times when my fingers couldn’t type fast enough.
During the writing process, I discovered I had an unhealthy attachment to the Oxford comma.
The book is based on a collection of true stories.
The best accompaniment to this book is music, wine and an open mind.
If you’re experiencing abuse, or know someone who is, the following organisations can help:
Women's Aid until women and children are safe.
If you are affected by domestic abuse, you are not alone. You can access free and confidential support from Refuge’s 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 and digital support via live chat Monday-Friday 3-10pm via www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.
(Only accessible in England)
Images
Cheeky seagull - Petra Hudeckova/Shutterstock.com
Guitar - TndmAgency_Yuliia Zatula/Shutterstock.com
Brighton Pier - Scotshot/Shutterstock.com