Nicky Shearsby

Breaking into serious novel writing wasn’t something I began in earnest until taking early retirement in 2021. Since then, I have concentrated my efforts on producing novels that focus on the damaged mind. My debut novel, To The Bitter End, which was released worldwide in February 2022 by award-winning independent publication house, SRL Publishing. Two decades of writing non-fiction, graphic design, magazine publication and organic skincare manufacturing, finally led me to my dream job. Writing novels.

For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by the human mind, our emotions, how we think, those nonsensical things we do, and the struggles life often throws our way. Because of this, my writing reflects the questions I feel are not asked often enough. I try to push boundaries and challenge the reader’s perspective by tackling complex issues through powerful characterization.

My work asks serious questions that promote deeper and more profound thinking. My aim is simple. To open up emotional and thought-provoking thinking that guides others within their own lives, helping them to see things differently. We all struggle, and escaping into fiction is the perfect way to unburden a busy mind, whilst hopefully learning valuable life lessons along the way.

Meet Nicky Shearsby

Questions on Writing

What is the hardest part of your writing experience?
The hardest part, for me, was realising that if you want to take writing seriously, you should know that your writing style will change dramatically (for the better) and that early work is all part of the journey.

What have you learn about yourself when writing?
I have learnt that my interest in the human mind goes far deeper than I realised and that I can express levels of empathy I didn’t know I could.

Do you make yourself write everyday/regularly, or only when inspiration strikes?
Yes, I write everyday. It is like a muscle. The more you exercise it, the better you become.

What does literary success look like to you?
Growing a fan base, one book at a time, and gaining feedback that shows me I am on the right track.

How much planning/world-building do you do before writing, and how much comes along as you write?
I outline the book I want to write, then do extensive research, whether that is by talking to people afflicted with the mental health issue I am tackling, or finding out the details of aspects in the book. My aim is to always get as much believability into my stories as I can. I want people to read them, and think, yes, this could have actually happened.

What was it that drew you to the psychological thriller genre?
I am a trained psychologist, counsellor, and life coach, so writing about the human condition seemed a natural step.

How do you celebrate when a book is published?
I start the next one.

Questions on Books and About You

Firstly, the most important question, what books are currently ‘on your bedside table’?
The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris.

What children’s book would you suggest every adult read?
Anything by Enid Blyton or Roald Dahl.

What does your writing space look like?
A large corner desk overlooking my garden.

How many books do you think you own?
About a quarter of a library’s worth by now.

Who is your literary icon?
Patricia Cornwell and Stephen King for their imagination and longevity.

If you could own one rare/1st edition copy of a book, which would it be?
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. I have a replica, but the real thing would be amazing.

Is there an author who you always read?
Thriller authors. All of them. I’m insatiable.

And finally, are there any plans for any new books? If so, what teasers can you give us?
Yes, I’m working on my new ongoing thriller series, The Flanigan Files. Book two will be coming out in 2024, The Lost Raven. Book three, Through the Broken Glass, will be coming out in 2025, which I am currently working on at the moment. Each novel focusses on a different antagonist, taking the reader on a dark and twisted journey of their damaged minds

Thank you Nicky😊I will fight you for that 1st edition copy of A Christmas Carol!

Nicky Shearsby’s Books