Hello, everyone!
Welcome to the Meet the Author Series. Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to have Amy Doak as our guest. I had the pleasure of crossing paths with Amy on Instagram a few years ago, and I’ve been enchanted by her feed ever since. Her posts are a treasure trove of bookish delights, featuring charming bookstores, enchanting libraries, and intriguing tidbits about authors.
But what truly shines through is Amy’s wonderfully sunny disposition, which makes every interaction with her, whether on social media or in our virtual chat today, an absolute pleasure.
Without further ado, lets dive in and meet the person behind the book.
Usha: Welcome, Amy! It’s fantastic to have you here. Could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Amy: Hi, I’m Amy Doak, a lifelong book enthusiast with a deep love for reading and writing. After a career in media, including advertising, radio, television, and magazines, I’ve ventured into the world of freelance writing. I’m absolutely thrilled to see my non-fiction writing journey evolve into a fiction one. My YA novel, “Eleanor Jones is not a Murderer,” is out now.
And now, let’s dive into the fun side of Amy with a couple of interesting facts:
As a kid, I had some rather unique aspirations. I wanted to be Ginger from “Gilligan’s Island” – mainly for her fabulous wardrobe and the allure of a tropical island adventure.
I’ve got a serious infatuation with Old Hollywood. Those classic films from the ’30s and ’40s, stars like Clark Gable, and the mystique of Alfred Hitchcock movies have me hooked. It’s a fascinating era, not just for what we see on screen, but for all the behind-the-scenes drama and intrigue.
Usha:Now, let’s chat books!
What’s your favourite genre to read? Are there any genres that you absolutely adore?
Amy: I’m definitely what you’d call a mood reader. At any given time, I might have up to four different books on the go. It’s usually a mix of fiction and nonfiction, often something on my Kindle, and a couple of hard copies. The challenge is that it can make the reading process a tad slower, with so many books in the mix.
In terms of genres, I’m quite the eclectic reader, but my heart tends to gravitate towards thrillers and crime novels. That’s my go-to. If I’ve been immersed in women’s fiction or heavy historical novels, I’ll often find myself craving a palate-cleansing thriller to reset my reading journey. So, while I enjoy a bit of everything, it’s those gripping mysteries and thrillers that truly get my reading engine revving. They’re my ultimate fun reads, but honestly, I’ve yet to meet a book I didn’t want to dive into.
Usha: Paperback, hardback, e-books or Audio books? What’s your preference?
Amy: Ah, the eternal question! It’s interesting how different formats serve different moments in our reading lives.
I do know a bunch of folks who were never big readers until they discovered audiobooks – that’s been a game-changer for many. For me, I do love my Kindle, especially when I’m reading in the night and don’t want to disturb anyone with a bright light. It’s perfect for those quiet, dark reading moments.
But let’s be honest, there’s something enchanting about the tactile experience of paperbacks and the hardbacks. However, they come with a bit of a weight issue, especially if I love to read while lying down or in the bath. Not exactly the most ergonomic choice for those scenarios.
So, while I appreciate the beauty of hardbacks, I’ve got a soft spot for paperbacks. I’ve found that some English translations of Asian literature come in this delightful little size, like the classic yellow or orange Penguin editions. They fit perfectly in a handbag and are easy to hold, even if the print is a tad small. Those unassuming, small-sized books, the kind that feel like the printer’s final hurrah after all the fancy editions, are the ones I love to hold the most. We could definitely use more small books in our lives!
Usha: What’s the first book you have a vivid memory of reading?
Amy: I was an early bloomer when it came to reading. Growing up with older sisters, I was exposed to a treasure trove of books, and I eagerly delved into their literary world. However, there’s one book that stands out as a pivotal moment in my reading journey.
When I was around 8 years old, I discovered “The Secret Garden.” It was the first substantial chapter book I tackled on my own. This novel whisked me away to a world entirely different from my own, a place and time so delightfully unfamiliar. The enchantment of it all was simply magical. While I’m sure I had ventured into the realms of Enid Blyton and other authors before this, “The Secret Garden” holds a special place in my heart. I can vividly recall the very spot where I sat engrossed in its pages, and the profound impact it had on me. It was the book that truly ignited my lifelong love affair with reading.
Usha: What sparked your journey as a writer?
Amy: Well, writing has always been a part of me. I’ve been spinning tales for as long as my memory stretches back. It’s one of those childhood constants, right? Speaking of which, I’m not sure if this was a thing in your school days, but here in Australia, around second or third grade, it’s like a rite of passage. Kids create their own books.
Picture this: we’d type out our stories, add illustrations, laminate makeshift covers – the whole shebang. Now, most kids were content with crafting one book. But me? I couldn’t stop at just one. I churned out four! I was utterly enthralled by the entire process; it was like a creative playground. I distinctly recall expressing my desire to be a writer back then.
However, no one in my family pursued a creative career, and it seemed like this far-fetched idea. Even some teachers regarded it as a mere hobby, something to dabble in on the side. Nobody I knew made a living from writing; it seemed like an enchanting but unattainable dream.
I continued to receive encouragement for my writing skills throughout my academic journey, but I never really thought it could be more than a pastime. So, instead, I took up writing-adjacent roles. I worked in media, dabbled in television, radio, scriptwriting, marketing, advertising, and even delved into the world of public relations and press releases. Magazines were my next playground, where I wrote a multitude of articles. But all this while, it was still somehow adjacent to what I truly desired.
It wasn’t until my thirties that I began to meet real-life working writers and authors who were not just passionate but making a living out of it. Suddenly, the fantastical notion of being a writer became a tantalizing possibility. I’d always been in the writing sphere, just not in the way I had envisioned. My winding path gave me a solid grounding and, I think, better equipped me for what I’m doing now.
So, in hindsight, I’m quite grateful that I didn’t rush into this journey in my twenties. The experience I’ve garnered along the way, working with editors, meeting deadlines, embracing changes – it’s all contributed to making this journey, although unexpected, quite enjoyable.
Usha: Why did you choose to write YA fiction, and what drew you to it?
Amy: Well, I’ve been on quite the learning journey when it comes to writing. I’ve completed various writing courses, from diplomas to weekend workshops, and dabbled in all sorts of genres. But every time I find myself writing for the 12 to 18 age group, something magical happens. It’s like I suddenly discover this more authentic voice within me. Maybe, just maybe, emotionally I’m still a teenager at heart. Who can really say?
My first attempt at writing a novel was aimed at adults. However, a dear friend of mine, who happens to be a middle-grade fiction writer, peeked at it. She gave me some incredibly positive feedback and mentioned “Have you ever thought about writing YA?” I thought about it quite a bit. I have a genuine affection for young adult literature. I love both reading and crafting it.
You see, when I was around 15 or 16, I hit a bit of a rough patch in my reading journey. It’s that tricky phase where you’re no longer a child, yet not entirely ready for all the grown-up stuff. The young adult genre was still finding its footing back then, and choices were somewhat limited. But that transition phase stuck with me, and I thought, “Why not try my hand at helping today’s teens navigate it a bit more smoothly?”
So, I gave it a shot. The voice in my head was strong and unwavering, and the story flowed. I kept at it, and I found immense joy in the process. But what really fuels my passion is the idea that someone out there might pick up “Eleanor Jones” and rediscover their love for reading. Maybe, just maybe, it will ignite their reading journey. That thought keeps me going and loving what I do.
Usha: If you could choose one literary figure, past or present, to meet or interview, who would it be? And is there a literary journey you’d love to embark on or have already taken?
Amy: Oh, I’ve got quite the adventure in mind! I’d absolutely adore doing a grand tour around the UK. Picture this: Visiting Jane Austen’s house, then hopping over to Agatha Christie’s, and exploring many more such literary havens turned living museums. I often daydream about it with my bookish friends. Imagine spending a month in the UK, leisurely traveling from one famous author’s home to another. It sounds like a dream come true, doesn’t it?
What makes it even more fascinating is that we don’t quite have that same historical depth here in Australia. The idea of standing where someone penned their words more than 300 years ago, it’s a feeling we rarely get to experience on our shores.
Now, there’s one author who’s a bit of an obsession for me, and I couldn’t help but weave their influence into my book, “Eleanor Jones is not a Murderer.” That author is Baroness Orczy, and her book “The Scarlet Pimpernel” is a true gem. When I first picked it up, I expected historical fiction, but what I got was a delightful surprise. It’s funny, action-packed, and quite unexpected, given it’s set during the French Revolution and was penned over a century ago. I found it rather empowering too, with its subtle feminist undertones. Sitting down with someone who lived a century ago, defied norms, and wrote such intriguing stories would be an absolute marvel.
Speaking of literary journeys, there’s another one that’s been on my mind. Imagine tracing the steps of Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code” through Italy and France. Exploring art, history, and mystery in one grand adventure. Books that seamlessly blend learning and discovery are my absolute favorites. They take you on a ride through history and intrigue, much like “The Da Vinci Code.”
Usha: If you could choose a celebrity to narrate your book for an audiobook, and if it were adapted into a movie, who do you think should play the lead role?
Amy: Funny you ask this because I’ve just learned that “Eleanor Jones is not a Murderer” will be available as an audiobook in November – incredibly exciting news! My publisher shared a voice sample with me today, and it was quite an experience. I had to figure out if the narrator could capture Eleanor’s voice and understand the essence of the other characters as well. We even discussed Australian accents and how they can vary depending on where you live. It’s quite intriguing, really.
Now, when it comes to the audiobook, I thought of Margot Robbie. She has this fantastic ability to switch between accents effortlessly. Remember how she sounded on “Neighbours”? I think was brilliant. She can also seamlessly adopt other voices that sound completely natural. I think she’d be fantastic for the task.
But let’s talk about Eleanor. She’s 16, sees herself as somewhat invisible, easy to forget, and well, pretty average. So, I’d love the idea of casting an unknown talent. Someone who’s never graced the big screen before. It would add authenticity to Eleanor’s character – a blank canvas ready to come into her own and shine. In my mind, it’s essential that the actor embodying Eleanor is a fresh face, someone would be able to breathe life into this relatable character. So, no famous names here, but a promising newcomer would be just perfect.
Usha: What do you enjoy when you’re not lost in the world of writing? Your Instagram showcases some intriguing illustrations and paintings. Tell us more about those creative pursuits.
Amy: Oh, the painting adventure! It was quite an accidental stumble into the world of digital art. A friend of mine does it and she taught me the skills and since then I have got hooked to it. I must confess, I’m far from a professional artist – my drawing skills are not great!
I use Procreate on my iPad.I often start with a photo reference, like a charming little house or a cozy bookstore. And with a fine liner brush I transform my rough outlines into something more presentable. And then, watercolours come into play, adding vibrancy and life to the piece. The beauty of it all is that it’s so relaxing; I can do it while watching a movie or simply unwinding with a cup of tea. There’s something therapeutic about applying watercolours on the tablet.
Now, about photography – it’s another passion of mine. Although I must admit, I’ve become a bit camera-lazy lately. Back when my kids were little, I would be snapping away to capture those precious moments. I’d love to get back into it sometime; there’s a unique joy in freezing moments in time through the lens. So, when I’m not lost in writing, you’ll likely find me immersed in these creative outlets.
Usha: What’s the latest show that’s ignited your creative spark?
Amy: You know, inspiration is a sneaky little thing; it can come from anywhere! I’m a bit of a sponge when it comes to input. I’m always soaking up podcasts, shows, books – you name it. My phone is stuffed with random screenshots of ideas that, frankly, I might not even remember the context for now. But at the time, I thought, “Oh, this is brilliant, I must remember this!” Like when you hear a killer song lyric, and two minutes later, it’s gone, right?
So, yeah, everything we consume, be it a show or a podcast, can fuel our creativity. There’s nothing quite like watching an amazing show or film and thinking, “Gosh, I’d love to create something half as good.”
COVID changed my media consumption a lot. I did a lot of comfort watching and rewatches. A couple of years ago, I went on this ’80s and ’90s nostalgia trip, rewatching everything I loved as a kid to see if it held up. Then, I went through a cozy mystery phase and binge-watched all those shows, like “Death in Paradise” and its spin-offs. They had that mystery element but were light and fun.
Recently, I’ve dipped my toes into slightly heavier stuff. I thoroughly enjoyed “Ted Lasso,” which my husband and I both loved – a rare consensus in our household! And, if you haven’t seen “Justified” with Timothy Olyphant as a fearless US Marshal in the South, I’d highly recommend it, despite its occasional gruesomeness. It’s a rollicking good time.
Usha: What’s next for Eleanor and her friends? Can we expect more of her adventures? Any other exciting projects on the horizon?
Amy: Well, originally, I had this cheeky idea for four different stories in my head. You know, it’s quite audacious to pitch that to a publisher when you’re just trying to win them over with one, but I was incredibly fortunate. Penguin signed me up for two books! So, I’ve already completed the second one, titled “Eleanor Jones Can’t Keep a Secret.” It’s currently going through the editing process, and you can expect it around this time next year, or maybe a bit earlier.
The second book picks up just a few weeks after the first, so Eleanor is still finding her footing in the town. I’m a big fan of series, especially since I was younger, so I hope that everyone loves Eleanor enough to want to read her second adventure sooner rather than later.
In fact, there are four stories in my head for her, and I would absolutely love to get them all onto the page. So, here’s hoping that Eleanor Jones has a lot more to share with all of you!
Thank you so much Amy for your time on Meet the Author and letting us get to know you. I would so love for be able to hold a copy of Eleanor Jones books in my hand when it is available in UK. I cannot thank you enough for the PDF ARC copy. It’s been a pleasure meeting Eleanor and her friends. I have as well got so many reading goals from our chat, I would so love to read Miss Fisher s Murder Mysteries. I am going to look for them in our local Library and also the Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy.
Find out more about Amy on her Instagram page
Amy Doak (@amywritingbooks) • Instagram photos and videos
https://www.penguin.com.au/authors/amy-doak
You can read the first chapter of Eleanor Jones is not a Murderer
That’s all folks from me , until next time.
Le Coin Des Bobby 