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In a remarkable journey from a corporate job to literary acclaim, Jamie Thompson, the author of The Lost Apothecary, shares her insights on female empowerment, betrayal, and the magic woven into her storytelling.
It’s a dream for many writers: penning a novel in secret while juggling a full-time job, only to find oneself on the New York Times Best Sellers list. This dream became a reality for Jamie, whose debut novel, The Lost Apothecary, has captivated readers and is this month’s featured selection for book clubs.
Not long ago, Jamie was waking up at 5 a.m. each day, lighting a candle, and diving into a tale about a female apothecary who concocts potions to help women reclaim their lives from deceitful men. Fast forward to today, and she’s now a full-time novelist, reveling in the opportunity to share her creative vision with the world.
Interview with Jamie Thompson
In a recent interview, Jamie opened up about her experiences: the thrill of becoming a bestselling author, her approach to crafting relatable female characters, and the books she currently enjoys.
Q: Can you share your path to becoming a novelist?
A: I’m relatively new to writing; this is my first book. The success has far exceeded my expectations. Many authors often say it takes several manuscripts before they find success. I wrote one manuscript about six years ago that never saw the light of day, but I learned a lot about storytelling through that experience. When I started working on The Lost Apothecary, it really resonated with agents and publishers alike. I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity.
Q: What motivated you to start writing?
A: I don’t have a traditional writing background. I graduated with a finance degree in 2008, so my professional life revolved around numbers. Yet, I always harbored a passion for writing since childhood. After a few years in finance, I felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue writing through an online course. That led to a journey of growth and ultimately, the creation of The Lost Apothecary.
Q: Your characters have agency, which is so engaging! What inspired that?
A: My first manuscript lacked strong female leads, which I realized was a significant flaw. For The Lost Apothecary, I focused on women’s empowerment, imagining a narrative where women take control of their destinies, even if that involves dark themes like poison.
Q: Your book is set in London, a city rich with history. How did you conduct your research?
A: I spent a significant portion of my finance career working in London, which allowed me to explore the city deeply. I was fascinated by its blend of modernity and history, which informed the setting of my novel. The cobblestone streets and hidden alleys inspired my imagination, making London a pivotal character in the story.
Q: What do you think draws readers to your book?
A: The allure of the apothecary is unique in historical fiction. Many readers are intrigued by the mystique and the idea of magic. People often connect with the themes of betrayal and empowerment, regardless of the era.
Q: What has the reader feedback been like?
A: The responses have ranged from joyful to deeply moving. Some readers have shared how the book inspired them to take action in their own lives. It’s both humbling and rewarding to hear such personal stories.
In transitioning from a finance career to full-time writing, Jamie has embraced her new routine, finding inspiration in early mornings. She continues to work on her next project, enjoying the creative freedom that comes with being a published author.
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In summary, Jamie Thompson’s journey from finance to fiction illustrates the power of pursuing one’s passion. Her debut novel, The Lost Apothecary, not only highlights women’s empowerment but also captivates readers with its unique setting and relatable characters.