Marilyn Freeman | Updates

Author Interview by AllAuthor

Marilyn Freeman — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 12:10:58 -0400

Where were you born, and what was your childhood like?

I was born in a place called Hollinwood. From the name you might imagine this was a pretty place deep in a forest. Not a bit of it. It was a small area on a main throughfare halfway between the smoky northern towns of Manchester and Oldham, in Lancashire, England. My family had a little shop selling sweets and tobacco, just by the side of the very busy road, where cars and buses sped past my bedroom window at all times of the day and night.

I lived with my mother and father and my brother, two years my senior. I was surrounded by aunts and uncles, and grandparents and life was good. My earliest memories are of sitting on the little wooden bench at the back of the shop, observing customers coming in and out, and listening to my mother chatting to them as she weighed out their sweets or handed them their packets of cigarettes. I always felt loved and cared for, even though we didn’t have much money.

Do you remember the first book you ever read?

The first book that I remember stimulating my imagination was ‘The Cloud’ by Arthur C Clark, mainly because for some reason I ended up reading it out to my classmates at the end of a busy school year, during that lazy period between the end of exams and the start of the summer holidays. I have to admit, I was something of a success!

The first classic novel I remember reading was Tess of the D’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy. His writing transported me into another world, far away from the smoke and grime of the Northern mill town, which was the only place I had known, at the time.

As a teenager, what were you obsessed with?

As a teenager, I enjoyed the world of pop music as did most of my friends, but I wouldn’t say I was obsessed with any particular artist or type of music, but I did love to dance!

What is the earliest experience you had with books/writing that you remember?

The first piece of creative writing I remember producing was a short story I created when I was 14, about being marooned at sea. My English teacher was impressed and gave me an ‘A’. Unfortunately I subsequently switched my attention to science and my writing career had to wait another forty years before I tried again! At the age of fifty I began writing poetry, but it was to be another twenty four years before I wrote my first novel.

What challenges did you face while publishing your first book, Karma: A Mystery in Paris?

My first book, Karma: A Mystery in Paris was born during Covid lockdown. I had enjoyed a school holiday in Paris when I was sixteen years old. This was my first journey into the world outside the UK, and I fell in love with the place. It was inevitable that my first novel had to be set in that wonderful city. Having for many years, been editing my husband’s books and attempting to get them published by the traditional routes, I was well aware how difficult it was to find an agent, let alone a publisher. At seventy four years old, I figured I didn’t have time to travel down that particular road, and decided to self-publish. I already had quite a bit of knowledge of self-publishing, having dealt with several books for my husband and various private clients. I decided to use Ingramspark, mainly for their extensive distribution network, so the actual publishing process was fairly straightforward. The problem, as always, is promoting my books, as I have limited financial resources. So, I just keep on writing and have just completed my my fourth mystery novel, Don't Dig Too Deep.

What made you decide to study Person Centred Counselling?

I decided to study Person Centred Counselling with a view to becoming a Bereavement Counsellor, but also because people and their motivations have always fascinated me. In fact, my counselling training has proved to be extremely useful as far as my writing is concerned. I love exploring my characters and what ‘makes them tick’, why they make certain decisions, and how they interact with each other. I think this adds depth to my writing.

What is your writing kryptonite? Inversely, what is something that never fails to inspire you?

My writing kryptonite would have to be spending too long in front of my computer. More than three hours at a stretch and my creative juices dry up! The solution is always to take a walk through nature. We are fortunate to live within two minutes of the beautiful Embankment along the River Great Ouse in Bedford, and that is where I clear away the clutter from my mind to free up my imagination.

What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I work each day, writing for around three hours at a stretch. The rest of my working day is spent proofreading and editing my husband’s work, or creating books for other people.

Which is the best compliment or fan-mail you have received for your work?

The best compliment anyone can pay me is to say ‘I just couldn’t put it down!’

How do you spend “quality time” with yourself?

To be honest I view the time I spend writing as my personal quality time. Being creative in any way is rewarding, but when I’m writing I enter another world, one that I can shape and people with interesting characters. Apart from that, quality time is also time spent with family and friends,

How did your friends and family react to your first book?

Mainly with amazement, as I published my first book just after my 74th birthday, and no one, not even me, thought that I even had a book in me!

Which one do you prefer: writing a series or a standalone novel? Why?

I have written three standalone novels and the first two books of a family saga. I enjoyed writing the standalone novels because I got to craft the whole arc of the story from it’s beginning to it’s conclusion. The first book about the Bangham family spans the first half of the 18th century, and has many characters, each of which has their own story, all beginning and ending at different points in the narrative. I find writing this historical novel enjoyable also, but in a different way. I love the intertwining of the lives of my characters with the backdrop of real events. I also find it fascinating how decisions taken can resonate down through generations, and not always in a predictable way.

The Bangham Family Story, which is based on my own ancestors begins in 1713 and continues into the second half of the 18th Century. Like so many families, their story began in the countryside, albeit in their case at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, working for Abraham Darby in his ironworks. This formed the backdrop to the first and second novels in the series. From there the family migrated to the area around The Wrekin, in Shropshire, where they worked for the famous ironmaster and philanthropist Richard Reynolds and his son the innovator William. This third novel in the series will span the years from 1766 to 1812 and will continue the story of the family, intertwined with some of the amazing developments that took place during those years in Shropshire.

What advice would you give someone with an urge to write, but who isn’t sure how to go about it?

I would say, start small. Begin by keeping a daily or weekly journal, just jotting down your thoughts and feelings about the events of the day. These could be events in your own life, someone else’s, or even what’s happening in the outside world. Get into the habit of writing regularly, however short or long the pieces. Don’t worry too much about accuracy or punctuation or spelling – there is plenty of software around that can do that job for you!

Once you feel more confident, try writing a short autobiographical piece, describe a person who has been important in your life, or perhaps recount an incident or event that had a profound impact on you.

Gradually, in my experience, your ‘writing voice’ will emerge and you will feel more comfortable about setting your thoughts down in writing. Above all, enjoy the experience, it can transform your life, transporting you to worlds you can only, literally, imagine!

18th September 2022

Please like and follow my facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/marilynswriting

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My Core Values – What They Mean to Me

Marilyn Freeman — Sun, 20 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Reflectiveness

It is important to take time to reflect on issues, on my own behaviour, on the effect I’m having on other people, on my beliefs. Only by reflecting can I make sense of my actions. Personally, I need that space and time to think clearly about what I’ve done and said and whether I could have done it better.

Determination

To achieve my goals, I need determination and the belief that what I’m doing is worthwhile and will be of benefit to others. Life itself can be distracting. There’s always something or someone intruding into your time, often unintentionally destroying your concentration. I have to be above all that, ready to return to the job in hand, literally making every minute count.

Happiness

I believe that happiness is a fundamental human need. This doesn’t necessarily mean having money or possessions. Happiness comes from giving to others but also knowing how to receive and to be grateful for the gifts we have and using them well.

Caring

Caring and helping are fundamental to being human. We love and care for our children and for our parents when they grow old. We can do no other, it’s what holds our human societies together, wherever they are in the world, and whatever their material circumstances.

Contentment

Caring for, helping and giving to others is essential for us to feel contentment. Also, we need to feel cared for and loved, regardless of the circumstances of our lives.

Beauty

Beauty nourishes the soul, whether it’s the amazing things we see in nature, or in the people we meet. By people I mean, not physically beautiful, but good-natured, kind people who put others before themselves.

Achievement

A sense of achievement from being successful in whatever endeavour you choose to try. In my case, completing a book, a website, or writing a poem, all give me a sense of achievement and of my own worth. My life means something, and hopefully not just to me!

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The Life-Enhancing Benefits of Creative Writing in Later Life

Marilyn Freeman — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

As we age, it is important to keep stimulating our minds and engaging in activities that can bring life-enhancing benefits. Creative writing is one such activity that can provide immense joy and satisfaction, as well as boost our mental wellbeing. 78-year-old author, Marilyn Freeman, found this to be true when she began writing fiction four years ago. Since then, she has self-published six novels. In this blog post, she explores why she has found creative writing to be so beneficial.

Marilyn writes:

Creative writing holds immense value for the older writer as it provides numerous benefits that can enhance overall well-being. It can boost confidence and provide a sense of fulfilment. It allows you to tap into your creativity and express yourself in unique and imaginative ways. Writing fiction, poems or even memoirs, can transport you to different worlds or relive cherished memories, adding depth and meaning to your life today.

Creative writing offers an opportunity to explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It can serve as a therapeutic outlet, helping you to process emotions and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. This self-reflection can contribute to improved mental health and emotional well-being.

By engaging in creative writing, you can also maintain and improve cognitive function. The mental stimulation required for crafting stories, characters, and plots will help keep your mind sharp and agile. It exercises the memory, vocabulary, and problem-solving skills, promoting mental agility and cognitive resilience.

Overall, creative writing provides a platform for self-expression, self-reflection, and connection with others. Whether writing fiction or a memoir, you will find joy, fulfilment, and a renewed sense of purpose through the art of creative writing.

Starting a new creative writing journey can be daunting. However, it is important to remember that it is never too late to start something new and pursue your passions. If you fancy giving it a go, here are a few tips to get you started.

Begin with short writing exercises or prompts to get your creative juices flowing. This can help build your confidence and ease you into the writing process. Break down your writing goals into manageable tasks. such as writing for ten minutes a day, and gradually increase the duration or word count as you become more comfortable. Remember that writing is a process, and your first draft doesn’t have to be perfect. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and revise your work. The important thing is to get started and let your creativity flow.

Try to create a routine for regular writing practice. Find a specific time slot in your day that works best for you and designate it as your writing time. Whether it’s early in the morning, during a quiet afternoon, or in the evening, having a dedicated time will help you prioritise and make writing a regular habit. Personally, I aim to write for two to three hours in the morning, when my imagination seems most active.

Find a comfortable and inspiring space where you can focus and let your creativity flow. It could be a quiet corner of your home, a cosy study, or even a local café. Ensure that the environment supports your writing process and minimises distractions.

Explore different writing techniques to find what works best for you. Some people find that freewriting, where they write continuously without worrying about grammar or structure, helps them unleash their creativity. Others prefer outlining or brainstorming before diving into their writing. Experiment with different approaches to find the one that resonates with you.

As we age, it can be intimidating to navigate the world of technology. However, embracing technology can greatly enhance your writing journey and open up a whole new realm of possibilities. There are numerous tools and resources available that can support and inspire your writing.

One of the most useful tools for writers is word processing software such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs. These programmes offer features that make writing and editing easier, such as spell-check, grammar suggestions, and the ability to easily rearrange and format your text.

Another helpful technology tool is speech-to-text software, which allows you to dictate your writing instead of typing it. This can be especially beneficial if you struggle with typing or have limited mobility. Speech-to-text software such as Dragon NaturallySpeaking or Google Docs Voice Typing can help you capture your thoughts and ideas quickly and effortlessly.

Of course, the internet is a vast resource for writers. Websites such as Pinterest and Tumblr can be great sources of inspiration, allowing you to discover writing prompts, visual imagery, and creative ideas.

Finding inspiration for writing ideas can sometimes be a daunting task, especially for someone new to creative writing. However, there are numerous sources of inspiration waiting to be discovered. One of the best ways to find ideas is by simply observing the world around you. Take a walk through nature, visit a bustling city, or sit in a local café and observe the people around you. Inspiration can strike from the smallest details, whether it’s a quirky character you see on the street or a beautiful sunset that evokes a specific emotion.

I find that reading books, articles, and poetry can also be a great source of inspiration, so expose yourself to different genres and styles of writing to spark your imagination and get your creative juices flowing. Additionally, personal experiences and memories can provide a rich source of inspiration. Reflect on your own life, the challenges you’ve overcome, the people you’ve met, and the places you’ve been. These personal stories can form the basis for compelling narratives that resonate with others.

Whether you write simply for yourself, for your family and friends, of to share with the wider world, the benefits of creative writing are enormous. In my experience, it brings a sense of achievement, adding to your self-esteem and sense of wellbeing.

I wish I had begun years ago!

Good luck with yours!

Marilyn Freeman

September 29th 2023

Please like and follow my Facebook author page at www.facebook.com/marilynswriting

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Bringing 'Karma' To Life

Marilyn Freeman — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

As I was writing my debut novel Karma, in my imagination, I was strolling through the streets of Paris, surrounded by all the unique sights, smells and sounds of that exciting city. I had hoped to be able to convey to my readers all that my senses were experiencing in my imagination, and to make my story as real for them as it was for me.

When it was finished and I proudly received and read that first copy, it was exciting to see the words that had been born inside my head actually there on the page in front of me. I have been thrilled by the response from everyone who has read it and am able to feel fairly satisfied that I must have created a reasonable approximation to the world of my imagination.

I was saddened though, that several of the people I know were excluded from the experience because their inability, for various reasons, to be able read it. It was then that I began to explore the possibility of creating an audiobook. To my delight it turns out that this is easier and less expensive than one might think.

Using ACX.com, within hours I had commissioned my audio producer, a lovely lady called Virginia Ferguson, whose narrating skills are excellent. She brings my characters to life and suddenly Karma is no longer only in my imagination. Furthermore, my work will now be accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to hear or see clearly.

The audiobook is still in production but I am so excited that soon it will be available online.

For any authors who would like to turn their work into an audiobook, I would say go for it and bring your story to life! It is easier than you think!

Marilyn Freeman

May 9th 2021

Please like and follow my facebook author page at www.facebook.com/marilynswriting

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Learning Curves

Marilyn Freeman — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

You would think that at my age, I would have learned enough to get me through life, but maybe not quite – yet!

My whole life seems to have been one long learning curve. When I left school and entered the world of work as an experimental officer in the Research Department of I.C.I. I was convinced that after 13 years of education, I knew it all. Of course, it didn’t take long for me to discover that I actually knew very little that could possibly be of use in the development of Gas Liquid Chromatography!

I’d just about got to grips with that when I was faced with the delights of Mass Spectroscopy, then on to the formulation and manufacture toiletry products such as shampoos and hair conditioners.

At this stage in my life, I was feeling pretty pleased with myself. I actually enjoyed gaining new knowledge and skills. Due to my husband being made redundant I then became a shopkeeper for three mind-numbing years. Not the most exciting time of my life, I have to admit. Things got a little more exciting when hubby was offered a job in Nigeria. This move found me playing ‘madame’ on the old colonial circuit in a supporting role to my then husband as he nurtured his career. That was definitely a sharp learning curve. I hadn’t had much opportunity to manage servants and organise majong sessions or coffee mornings, in Hollinwood, on the outskirts of a smoky northern town, but I did my best.

On returning to the UK, fate led me to a part time job in a company selling carpets – I know – what did that have to do with shampoo? Well, nothing, but with a couple of children to look after, I could only take a part time job, which were pretty rare in laboratories in those days. Anyway, I digress. While at the carpet warehouse I resumed my self-development programme by taking a touch typing course. Over the years, this skill has been more useful than all my other acquired skills put together!

Another family move when I once again took up a supporting role to my successful husband, now found us in a small village in Bedfordshire, with few opportunities for self-development, although I did try my hand at selling jewelry by holding little parties for bored housewives. Not a great way to earn a living, I’m afraid, but quite enjoyable at the time.

Fate took a hand again when I found a part-time job at a small engineering company in Bedford and I met my now husband. We were both made redundant as the firm moved out of the area. Both needing a job, we set up a company manufacturing – yes, you’ve got it – toiletries! Now I had several learning curves to climb all at once – business management, marketing and sales, company accounting and product development. We had some great contracts including one to supply the QE2 with giveaway packs for the bathrooms. Over the next six years there was plenty of opportunity for self-development, but perhaps I didn’t learn some things well enough, as the business eventually failed, sadly.

Now divorced and remarried, it was back to shop life, I’m afraid – needs must! This time, with aging parents needing support, after divorce and remarriage to my business partner, we headed north to Burnley. There we ran an ‘open all hours’ shop for the next few years while at the same time developing yet another business – ironing! I know what you’re thinking – why would anyone want to make a living ironing other people’s clothes? If only you knew how often I asked myself that question!

Eventually we were liberated from the daily grind, when my husband, always the inventor and entrepreneur, after watching myself and my ironing ladies slaving away with smoothing irons, developed an idea for an ironing machine.

This was an exciting time. The idea was unique and found enthusiasm in many quarters, eventually winning an innovation competition, the prize being an office facility within Manchester University, assistance to develop the idea and a laptop computer. Once more I hit the learning curve. This time I had to hone my computer skills, sales technique, presentation skills and accounting nonce. I think one could call this venture a success as we were able to sell over 100 machines before, sadly, the company who had been supporting us went bust and took us with it!

Well, in 2004 that just about ended the story of my chequered business career, but not, I hasten to add, an end to the learning curves. Since then, I have discovered the world of self-publishing. My husband had been writing books for children for many years and now we set about getting them into print. This meant finding my way around editing, proofing and creating books, then formatting and publishing them. Along the way I did the same for a few private clients which was very enjoyable.

So, was I finally done with learning stuff? Well, no, actually. In my wisdom I decided to ‘become’ a counsellor and embarked on three years of training at Bedford College before discovering that to be a counsellor means volunteering for years before there is any chance of finding paid work. It’s a bit of a closed shop, like so many professions. I did put my counselling skills to use though, by becoming a bereavement support volunteer for three years. During this time I learned not only about counselling, but more importantly, much about myself.

Surely, this must be it now. Surely I have done learning? Well, no, actually, fate had one last throw of the dice in the shape of the Covid Virus pandemic. Stuck in lockdown with little to do, the thought struck me that now was the time to write that novel I had been thinking about for some time. One last learning curve then, how to write a novel! I took a couple of short online writing courses but didn’t really enjoy them, finding them rather restricting. So, ironically the final chapter of my life to date had no learning curve to it at all! I simply sat at my computer and started to write, drawing on all the varied experiences of my life.

Having said that, I guess every learning curve I’ve ever been on has contributed in some way to the life experiences I now draw upon. And who knows, this may not even be the last chapter!

There may yet be time for more learning!

Marilyn Freeman

May 5th 2021

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