Lee Verity, author of Artolan Slime and The Mystery of The Blue Lady, released his debut book in April 2018. We decided to catch up with the author and see how life had changed since becoming an author.

Did you always dream of becoming an author?

I had always been fascinated with fantasy novels such as Watership Down, Duncton Wood, Magician and Lord of the Rings. I always remember having my head in a book. I suppose it was always in the back of my mind but I never thought it could be a reality.

What was your first job?

My first job was an apprentice painter and decorator on an YTS training scheme, following in the footsteps of my father who owned his own business. You may see references to painting and decorating in some of the chapters of the novel.

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

Having worked as an English teacher and supply teacher for many years, there were many lessons I would cover in numerous schools in West Yorkshire, where students would talk about a school ghost. The idea for the Blue Lady exploded from there when I began noticing eerie locations such as a school cellar, costume room and attic in one classroom!

What was your life like before you became an author?

Ordinary. English teaching every day. Challenging but very rewarding.

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

The challenge of getting the book to be good enough for publication. Sometimes I would get writer’s block and struggle to know how to fit all the pieces together. Sometimes it seemed impossible, even though I had the end of the novel already worked out in the back of my mind. The actual journey to reaching that end point sometimes seemed beyond me.

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

The most amazing aspect of being a published author is seeing the students read your own book in lessons or in form time and giving positive feedback about characters and settings in the story. It is a very surreal experience.

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

Signing books at school for students and teachers. Asking students what their favourite part/moment of Artolan Slime and The Mystery of The Blue Lady is. Checking social media to see if anyone else has commented on the story or made further orders. Checking my mobile phone for calls from potential book shops interested in stocking the book.

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

Getting to listen to feedback from people who have read Artolan Slime and also being able to read your own book in your bed or in the calm tranquillity of your own bath after a hard day at work.

In a few words, how would you review your experience with Pegasus Publishers?

Life-changing and a truly unforgettable experience. I am so glad I chose Pegasus to publish and market my book. They have done a remarkable, professional job and everyone I talk to is deeply impressed with the quality of the publication, front cover and spine. I cannot thank Pegasus enough for making my dreams come true.