Author Julie Malone Talks Us Through Middleway Words Festival

Julie, how did you become a writer?
The fact is, I was in an abusive marriage and my children and I had to get out. We changed our names and escaped with help from Women's Aid. Next, I needed an income so I went back to college. One of the professors said to me, ‘You got away from your abusive husband and changed your life. You need to write this down. Yours is a success story. And can help others to move on as well.’

I tried over and over to write my story, but it was just too painful. The scars were still healing. When I married again, I told my new husband what I wanted to do and, bless him, he bought me a computer. So, it started with one tiny little sentence in my head, and from that came five young adult fantasy adventures, plus another five children’s books. I've even got a crime thriller coming out next year.

And you now dedicate a lot of your time to the local writing community, is that right?
I set up New Writers UK to support independently-published authors, help them connect with their readers and show not everything comes from a famous author.

From that, I got involved with organising book festivals. But I had more to give back. I persuaded the County Council to fund a Nottinghamshire children’s creative writing competition, which I ran for thirteen years. It was just wonderful. I've watched children grow up and become midwives, barristers, surgeons and even writers. We had one lad on the autistic spectrum who was so shy but is now a journalist. Sometimes, adults put young people down, but I’ve met some amazing youngsters who’ve grown up into admirable adults.

What would your advice be for anyone who wants to become a writer?
Think very carefully! I've heard famous writers say it took them twenty years to become an overnight sensation. It’s not easy. For example, I went to a fantasy convention and spoke to a high-profile editor. She said if you're not selling eighty-odd thousand books a year, you're a failure. I replied, “I thought your job was to sell the books!” But children contact me and say they love my books. When a seven-year-old tells me she started reading because of my work, I know I'm not a failure.

Tell us about the Middleway Festival at Waterstones, it sounds exciting.
We have Elizabeth Chadwick, the historical author, who most readers of historical fiction will know. She’s a member of the historical re-enactment society, and tries out all these things like wearing chainmail, cooking over an open fire, so she knows how these long-ago actions feel. Quite honestly, her stories play out like scenes from a movie. Anyone who loves historical fiction will be delighted to meet her. Tim Logan is the bestselling author of The Holiday, which was recently serialised on TV. Then there's Claire Harvey - she writes World War Two novels, which all stems from her own family connections to the war. Also, there’s you, Ian C Douglas, with your gripping science-fiction novels. And Wilf Morgan, a publisher and author of young adult novels. The night kicks off with a Q&A panel. Next, the authors read from their bestsellers. After this, we break for refreshments and some chatting and we'll come back for book signings.

How did it come about?
It was because of COVID, actually. Ignaty Dyakov-Richmond, co-chair of the West Midlands Society of Authors, came up with this idea of an online festival as nobody could go to actual festivals. Ignaty contacted his peers across the Midlands and word spread. I got involved because I'm fascinated that this will stretch from Yorkshire down to Northamptonshire and right across the Midlands to showcase the talent we have here. Not everything happens in London - surprise, surprise! 

What can we look forward to on the night?
Getting your questions answered by published authors. And seeing the talent we have within Nottinghamshire. I've spoken to a lot of young people and they're really excited about meeting some of Notts’ acclaimed authors - and talking with them! 

Who’s compère for the night?
We're very lucky to have John Holmes, much-loved BBC Radio presenter, who has so much experience at interviewing people. He's met everyone from Sting to Marc Bolan. He's even worked with puppets on the radio. John's a legend and a lovely man. His memoir, based on his BBC career, will be available for sale. It’s a fascinating read! 

If you were in the audience, what would you ask?
Did you ever get to a point when you felt you wanted to give up writing?

Very good question! What's your answer?
Not yet!

By the way, what’s your star sign?
Cancerian. I walk sideways... Actually, my son, my granddaughter and I are all Cancerians, and we’re very much the same, personality-wise. They say Cancerians are family-orientated and I'm definitely happiest around family and friends. 

Let’s see how you compare to typical Cancerian traits. Are you compassionate?
I'd like to think so. 

A goofy sense of humour?
That’s a yes. 

A good shoulder to cry on?
Definitely. 

Do you like steamy cups of chamomile tea?
No, it makes me unwell.

Are you moody and snappy?
How long have you known me? Of course not! 

Quick to retreat into your shell?
Sometimes. 

Are you sharp-tongued?
I'd say no, but you’d better check with my husband.

Favourite gemstone?
Oh, sapphires. Love the Blues. 

You should’ve said rubies, the Cancerian birthstone! Astrologists say Cancerians share the following qualities with good writers; unpredictability, being thick-skinned and persistence.
Unpredictability? Yes, my characters are forever taking me by surprise. Thick-skinned? No, I'm very sensitive. Persistence? That's me.

Do you have anything in common with these famous Cancerian writers: Hemingway, Orwell, Kafka, and Dan Brown?
Um, I’m not a massive fan of any of them, really… Sorry!

Middleway Words Festival will be taking over Waterstones on Thursday 10 November for a special evening with local authors

jaemalone.co.uk