Wendy Goult - Author Life

Wendy Goult, author of Chain Reaction and Chasing Shadows, released her second book in November 2017. In light of this, we felt that it was time to find out how life has changed for her since her books were published.

Did you always dream of becoming an author?

No, nothing like this was in my mind. It just sort of happened.

What was your first job?

First job was secretary in the Chief Constable’s office (West Suffolk Police)

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

I started writing as a form of therapy following the death of my husband. My mind had closed down and it was suggested I join a writing group to try and open it up again.  After a bit of time, my scribblings got longer and more detailed until I suddenly realised I had a story waiting to be told. From that moment on, I have progressed from one story to another, to another…

What was your life like before you became an author?

Nothing in my life has ever been planned. It just happens. So I was wife and mother and then grandmother. I moved from being a secretary to an eclectic mix of jobs. I worked hard and gained a degree in History and Social Science. Moved into Historical Research for Suffolk County Council (one publication – Survey of Suffolk Parish History). Then moved into construction, where I took more exams (HNC Building Studies, NEBOSH Construction and TechIOSH, RMaps) finishing up as Senior Consultant CDM (Construction, Design & Management). I worked for NHBC with responsibility for the flagship developments in London for Barratt Homes.

I was with NHBC for 20 years until my retirement in 2011. By that time, I was also caring for my husband as he became progressively more disabled.

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

I cant say I struggled at all. I was expecting multiple rejections but Chain Reaction was accepted at the first submission. It all came as a big surprise. Now Chasing Shadows is taking flight as well. I feel extremely fortunate.

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

It hasn’t changed much, except I have had to come to grips with self-promotion.

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

I don’t have a typical day.

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

The day I received a phone call to say Chain Reaction had been chosen as the publishers 'Book of the Month'.

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

I have enjoyed working with Pegasus – they have held my hand and guided me through each stage. They have encouraged me and talked me through everything. For that, I owe you all a big thank you.