Ali North, author of AN & i, released her book in January 2018. It seemed like the perfect time to catch up with the author and find out what she had to say about the experience so far.

Did you always dream of becoming an author?

From when I was very ill, I made a promise to myself that I would share my true life story fighting anorexia nervosa in the hope of raising awareness of mental health, including eating disorders. I am delighted, thanks to the support & belief from Pegasus, to have achieved this life goal.

What was your first job?

As a teenager (while still at school), I worked part-time a few nights a week as a waitress in a bar & nightclub to earn money to help my Mum.

How did you come about writing your book? Was that your intention or did you start writing for fun?

I started writing my book the first evening after another eventful ‘chapter’ (no pun intended) had come to a close and I had so much adrenaline and determination following after yet another battle, that I just started typing furiously!

What was your life like before you became an author?

Much as it is now really, but every so often, you have that wee excited feeling, especially when you see your book somewhere, oh I did that.

I still have a very hectic life working full-time and managing a household, husband and daughter! Now, I also have the pleasure of having additional engagements and correspondence to manage in relation to my book.

Did you face any struggles before becoming an author? If so, how did you overcome them?

As my book reveals, the majority of my life was a chain of struggles; hence my book.

Now that you are a published author, how has your life changed, if at all?

As above, now I also have the pleasure of having additional engagements and correspondence to manage in relation to my book. I have also a sense of achievement in that I am responsible for this creation in AN & i and am hopeful that, through it, I can help someone else fighting similar battles and raise awareness about mental health, particularly eating disorders.

Can you please describe a typical day in your life now?

Hectic usually, from getting the family out to work and school, putting in a hard day at the office, long commute to and from home, an evening filled with family commitments, slogging it out in the gym and maybe, at some point, some chill time!

What is your most memorable moment of your life as an author?

That first time opening the box and seeing my book! Wow...

How would you best sum up your experience with Pegasus Publishers?

A joy from the minute I contacted then with my initial submission until this very day. All the Pegasus’ staff with whom I have been involved have continued to show unstinting support, professionalism and encouragement throughout the process.

Thank-you Pegasus!