Interview with Julia Thorley

Published 2018-07-25.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in a small market town in Staffordshire, in the UK. As a youngster I thought it was dull, dull, dull and couldn't wait to get away. Now when I visit family and friends there, I rediscover its charms, not least the stunning scenery and the 'Staffy-shire' accent.
Describe your desk
Not big enough!
How do you approach cover design?
Every project is different, but with Stripped-back Yoga I started with an idea of one of my favourite yoga postures, and the image of a naked back - literrally stripped - evolved from that. The artist is Malcolm Parnell, and he painted this picture specially for me.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
That depends on what day you ask me!
What do you read for pleasure?
I love a good murder, especially in there's plenty of forensic detail; but I also like family dramas and comedy, and creative narratives.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
Word of mouth, talking to people at literary festivals and other wordy events and, of course social media.
What's the story behind your latest book?
I've been a yoga teacher for quite a few years now, and I've seen and heard some amazing things; but I'm disillusioned with some aspects, such as the ramptant commercialism of what is basically a very simple practice, and the dumbing down of its more esoteric elements. It's not just about making shapes. On the other hand, I've also had some hilarious experiences, and I wanted to share them.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
Conventional publishing is great, but I enjoy the creative freedom that indie publishing offers.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
That moment when someone says 'I've read your stuff' - even if they didn't like it.
What are you working on next?
I have some more non-fiction projects on the go, but I'd also like to publish a collection of short stories. I haven't decided what to do next.
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Books by This Author

A Sparge Bag on the Washing Line
Price: $2.50 USD. Words: 47,470. Language: English. Published: November 10, 2019 . Categories: Nonfiction » Entertainment » Humor & satire » Topic / marriage & family, Nonfiction » Relationships & Family » Life stages / general
When her husband retires, Julia Thorley starts to keep a diary for her own amusement. She doesn't tell the poor man in case he starts to do daft things on purpose. She needn't have worried.Funny, thought-provoking and touching, this is a tale that will be familiar to anyone whose partner has retired, and offers a gentle warning to anyone about to embark on this stage of their life.
Stripped-back Yoga
Price: $2.50 USD. Words: 22,310. Language: English. Published: July 25, 2018 . Categories: Nonfiction » Health, wellbeing, & medicine » Yoga
Not a how-to book on yoga, but a collection of thoughts and not-so-humble opinions on what is right and wrong in yoga today. Julia Thorley is a yoga teacher whose aim is to make you smile and consider what really matters on the yoga mat.