CHRISTMASINKENT
KENTISH WINTER READS CONT .
Amanda Larkman : The Woman and The Witch www . middle-agedwarrior . com
A powerful and lyrical read , Amanda Larkman ’ s The Woman and The Witch tells the charming story of one woman struggling with middle age and a badtempered witch who shows her that with the right people by your side , life can begin when you want it to . The dual perspective narrative ensures we get to know both our protagonists , Frieda and Angie . We get to explore who they are , why they do the things they do and we get to see them grow throughout the book , making the story that much more intoxicating and encompassing . This is one for fans of complex female characters , and a story bursting with humour , life and heart . The poetic writing style ensures the storylines come to life , making this a tale that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page .
Where did the inspiration for your first novel , The Woman and The Witch , come from ?
Turning 50 ! I became very conscious of how society judges the old , particularly women . I wanted to tell the story of someone giving up on life in middle-age , crippled by self-limiting beliefs , who is then rescued by a fierce , bad-tempered , uncompromising old witch . I was inspired by the humour and strength of female friendships as well as my formidable grandmother who lived well into her 90s . I was also fascinated by research proving the positive impact spending time outside in green spaces had on stress hormones and high blood pressure . The ‘ magic ’ in the book comes from the characters ’ ability to connect with the energy of the natural world around them .
You have a penchant for writing strong yet complex female characters , why do you think this depiction of womanhood is so important in today ' s world ?
Women play so many roles they are naturally complex ; they are so much more than the dewy eyed sirens we see on Instagram and TikTok . I want to celebrate the women who are scared but still smiling , a little bit broken but still able to roar with laughter over a glass of wine ; the older women who are overlooked and ignored but I think are marvellous , and that ’ s why I write about them . Women do not lose their value when they lose their youth . I think it ’ s hugely important today ’ s world recognises the contribution women can make at all stages of their lives .
What advice would you give any budding authors reading this interview ?
Write every day , even if it ’ s just a sentence . Don ’ t let anyone look at your work until you ’ ve finished your first draft . Watch Marian Keyes ’ excellent ( and free ) YouTube course on writing .
Amanda Larkman ’ s The Woman and The Witch is available from amazon . co . uk and Canterbury ’ s The Walrus and Oyster now .
37