“When I received the call from my agent that publishers were interested in the book, it was exciting and almost dizzying,” said Mr Hinshaw, who previously worked for Guille-Allès Library.
“I have been writing for about 18 years and written a few different books in that time and it just happens that this is the one that made it.”
Pictured: Islander and former Elizabeth College student Ben Hinshaw is a published author who has been writing for 18 years.
The novel tells the story of a teenager in Guernsey who discovers a secret with the potential to ruin adult lives. The tale follows a cast of characters as the consequences of the secret play out across the world, including in London and California.
“There are a lot of different storylines and locations in the book, so it’s hard to pin down just one inspiration for the story,” said Mr Hinshaw.
“The book expresses the sense that everyone’s lives are connected in some ways that we can’t always see.
“It is also a testament to how Guernsey is connected to the wider world and I think people will be able to relate to that.”
Mr Hinshaw faced a lot of rejection of his work over the years.
“There were certainly times where I lost motivation after my books were rejected multiple times by different publishers,” he said.
“I finally decided that I would just write for myself and let go of any expectation that my work would ever be published.
“I would say to anyone who wants to be a writer that you need to do it for its own sake. Just enjoy the creative outlet and don’t fixate on what will happen.”
Pictured: Mr Hinshaw’s published book was released last week.
Mr Hinshaw’s book was released last week and is available in local bookstores and online.
“I am going to London this week to do some book signing events, podcasts and meet the publishers because I haven’t met them in person yet due to covid,” said Mr Hinshaw.
“The thing I love most about writing is the satisfaction in converting thoughts and feelings into something that will always last.
“This story will last forever and it will never change. That’s something I love about books and also music – that they are always there when they’re needed and you know they’re going to be the same.”