BUDDING writers can learn from a Somerset-inspired author about the research skills needed to write a novel at Wells Library this month.

Jae Malone, who lives in Nottingham but used to live in Butleigh, Mendip, and Sherborne, Dorset, is eagerly anticipating her return to the area, which she calls her ‘spiritual home’.

Her published work includes the Winterne Series of four fantasy adventure books set around Wells, Wookey and the Mendip Hills, and a set of animal stories for younger children. 

The fifth book in the Winterne Series is due to be released next year. 

Jae has also written From Knight to Knave as a standalone prequel of the series.

From Knight to Knave is a historical novel in six parts about the lives of the fictional Maitland dynasty of Winterne Manor, located near Wells and Glastonbury.

Somerset County Gazette: Jae Malone's new book, From Knight to Knave, is a standalone prequel of the Winterne Series. Picture: Jae Malone Jae Malone's new book, From Knight to Knave, is a standalone prequel of the Winterne Series. Picture: Jae Malone

Jae will speak at Wells Library at 11am on Saturday, March 19, about the research involved in writing the novel.

Jae said: ‘I am so looking forward to returning to the Wells and Wookey Hole area.

“This visit was planned to take place two years ago but, of course, the Covid restrictions were put in place, and we had to postpone.

“I usually come back at least once a year and being away for so long just hasn’t felt right.

“So, it’s very exciting that we are now able to go ahead.”

Somerset County Gazette: Silver Linings and Avaroc's Return are the first and fourth novels in Jae Malone's Winterne Series. Pictures: Jae Malone Silver Linings and Avaroc's Return are the first and fourth novels in Jae Malone's Winterne Series. Pictures: Jae Malone

The research topics she will discuss include the Monmouth Rebellion, an attempt to overthrow King James II by rebels in the south west in 1685, and Dr Robert Boyd, physician and superintendent at a Somerset asylum.

Jae will also host creative writing workshops for pupils at Glastonbury Primary School while she is in Somerset, having previously held workshops at schools there and in Wells and Sherborne.

To book your place at Jae’s talk about research for novels, contact Wells Library.

For more information about Jae’s books and her visit, please visit www.jaemalone.co.uk or email jaemalone.author@gmail.com