Three years ago, I took a leap of faith and embarked on my writing journey after dedicating 40 years to the finance world. It was a significant shift, but oh, how it has transformed my life!

My first series of self-published children's books draws inspiration from the incredible animals and dedicated staff I encountered while volunteering at Animal Rescue. Reflecting on this journey, I realise how much I've grown—not just as a writer, but as a person. Each story I crafted allowed me to explore new facets of my identity and the world around me.

Illustrating my books was a labour of love. I understood my characters deeply, and I wanted their essence to shine through in each drawing. I always thought I had a knack for art, but it was a surprise to discover that my skills were strong enough not only to illustrate my own work but also to collaborate with other authors and launch my Misty Nook artwork catalogue.

While I've cherished writing for children, I've also learned the importance of pushing beyond my comfort zone. As my appreciation for the craft and the business has deepened, I faced my own battles with imposter syndrome. Yet, with perseverance, I've set my sights on a new goal: to write stories for adults—both fiction and nonfiction. My first endeavour is a heartfelt short story about my mother, born in Bermondsey, London, at the dawn of World War II. This project has been a beautiful journey of discovery, allowing me to learn more about her and connect with my family history.

This journey has been a mix of wonder and challenge, but my passion for writing shines brighter than ever. I am grateful to be part of this magical profession. Drawing on the support of my incredible family, valuable contacts, and resilient self-belief, I'm now diving into writing my first adult fiction novel. This process requires painting vivid pictures with words and taking my storytelling to new heights.

With a goal to have the manuscript ready for editing by May and an anticipated launch in July, I couldn't be more excited to share my journey with the world. Remember, every step you take, no matter how daunting, can lead to something beautiful. Embrace the process, and never underestimate the power of your own narrative.