Author Archives: Louise Beech

Afterwards – after Eighteen Seconds

In the three years since my memoir was published I’ve received so many messages from readers. Some found that my account resonated with them. Some identified with small aspects. Some, sadly, with larger parts. Some said they had, because of my words, ended ties with hurtful family members. Many apologised for oversharing or ‘bothering me’Continue reading “Afterwards – after Eighteen Seconds”

Want me to join your book group? Just ask…

Over the last month, I’ve possibly attended/joined more book groups than usual. I’m not sure why it happened like this? Maybe the culmination of it being the ten year anniversay of first getting a book deal, maybe now having had eleven books published, or maybe just because I’m open (always) to meeting readers old andContinue reading “Want me to join your book group? Just ask…”

Trauma is Never an Excuse

One of the most challenging – but ultimately rewarding – books I’ve written in my now ten-year career as an author is my memoir, Eighteen Seconds. It began in the wake of my mother’s shocking bridge jump, at a time when her recovery meant my life was on hold. It was the story that chokedContinue reading “Trauma is Never an Excuse”

How to be Brave – from page to stage

My debut novel, How to be Brave, was released nine years ago in September. How on earth can that be? NINE YEARS. Since then it has hit Number 4 on the overall Amazon chart, been a Guardian Readers’ Pick, and been called a ‘gentle book, full of emotion, suitable for young readers, and similar inContinue reading “How to be Brave – from page to stage”

How to be Brave – the original short story

Before the novel, there was the short story. And then a script – more on that next year when it comes to an East Yorkshire stage. Want to read how it was back then, when my daughter’s name was still used instead of Rose? Here you are… We trade blood for words. This is ourContinue reading “How to be Brave – the original short story”

Turning negative comments into positive action…

Over the years I’ve had all sorts of writing advice and rejections from people in various areas of publishing, some positive, some negative, but ultimately all of it helpful. The positive is good because it keeps you going, gives you an idea of where your work is strong, and reminds you that you’re in theContinue reading “Turning negative comments into positive action…“