I’ve been writing fiction since I was ten.
I was introduced to creative writing in primary school and won two national writing competitions in my final year there. Since then, I’ve written short stories, poetry, fanfiction (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Doctor Who) and four novels. I’ve always written about people and relationships: I enjoy exploring the dynamics between individuals and their wider circles.
New Beginnings
I firmly believe that it’s never too late to learn!
I left school with seven O levels, the ancient equivalent of GCSEs. As an adult, I passed Maths GCSE, English A level, two management certificate courses and three NVQs. Last year, I gained a first-class degree in English Literature and Creative Writing after six years of part-time study.
I love Doctor Who, Shakespeare and David Tennant.
From an early age my favourite TV shows have reflected my love of sci-fi and fantasy: Doctor Who, Star Trek, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, to name just a few. Until recently, I regularly attended fan conventions in Britain and America where I met many of my favourite actors. I’m a member of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and try to see as many of their productions as I can. As a Shakespeare/David Tennant fan, I saw their Hamlet and Richard II several times and I’ve been lucky enough to meet my idol more than once.
I’m Welsh but am often mistaken for a Liverpudlian.
I was born in North Wales and have lived here all my life. I’d heard that our local accent sounds Liverpudlian to outsiders because of the influx of Merseyside workers to the coastal mining areas, but I’m unconvinced. I don’t have a counter theory, but I can speak enough Welsh to keep up in conversation and I’m very proud of my Welsh heritage.
I live with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue.
I was diagnosed in 2014 after nine years of unexplained debilitating symptoms. Thankfully I’m relatively mildly affected and have been able to maintain my full-time job and many hobbies, but it’s an ongoing challenge to acknowledge my physical restrictions. I frequently surrender my weekends to simply resting, but I’m determined to keep going. My attitude is that I have this condition – it doesn’t have me.
I’m an amateur genealogist.
Last year, I began researching my family history. My dad had made a start, hoping to learn the origins of his adopted grandfather, but he died without making that discovery. Using the internet, unavailable to Dad, I have solved that mystery and expanded our family tree from 40 people to over 800! It’s a fascinating hobby which reminds me of my ten-year-old self, listing family members’ names for my stories.
Colouring keeps me sane.
I was cynical when the adult colouring book craze began but once I’d tried it, I was hooked! I have completed dozens of colouring books, ranging in style from mandalas to affirmations to Buffy the Vampire Slayer to crazy psychedelic patterns, and it’s now an important part of my day. For an hour each evening before bed, I switch off all screens and colour one or two pages. I find this activity very calming, especially after a demanding day at work, and I attribute my improved sleeping pattern to this ritual.