Wartime Tales and Writing Triumphs: An Interview with Mandy Robotham.

The WCCS, Season 15 Episode 07. LIVE, HERE, Friday at 8pm UK time.

This Friday on The Writing Community Chat Show, we’re thrilled to welcome USA TODAY bestseller Mandy Robotham! Known for her gripping historical fiction, Mandy’s books have captured hearts worldwide, blending tales of resilience and courage with the richness of wartime history. In this Substack post, we’re diving into everything you can expect from our conversation with Mandy—from her journey to becoming a writer to the exciting details about her latest and future works. Plus, we’ll answer live questions from our paid members in the Community Questions segment.

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The Road to Writing

Mandy’s journey to becoming a bestselling author is as compelling as the stories she writes. Her dream of becoming a writer began at the tender age of nine after reading Harriet the Spy. Armed with a notebook, she roamed her school playground, emulating her literary hero and planting the seeds of a lifelong passion for storytelling. But, like many writers, Mandy’s road to the keyboard wasn’t linear.

Her early ambitions were sidetracked by a career in journalism, raising children, and eventually midwifery. These diverse experiences, however, enriched her storytelling, allowing her to craft nuanced narratives that resonate deeply with readers. It wasn’t until she pursued an MA in Creative Writing at Oxford Brookes University that Mandy fully embraced her calling as a novelist.

Her debut novel, A Woman of War, was a runaway success, intertwining her fascination with wartime history and her professional experience in childbirth. The story’s emotional depth and historical authenticity struck a chord with readers, catapulting it onto Kindle and paperback bestseller lists in both the UK and Canada. From there, Mandy never looked back, immersing herself in the world of full-time writing.

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What’s the Story?

In the interview, we’ll delve into Mandy’s wartime novels and the fascinating stories behind them. Each of her books transports readers to a pivotal moment in history, spotlighting the courage and resilience of ordinary people—particularly women—in extraordinary circumstances.

Her second novel, The Secret Messenger, takes readers to occupied Venice, shedding light on the vital contributions of women to the Allied war effort. Mandy’s third, fourth, and fifth books have journeyed through pre- and post-war Berlin and wartime Norway, showcasing her knack for combining meticulous research with emotional storytelling. Whether it’s the snow-draped landscapes of Scandinavia or the complex political climate of Berlin, Mandy’s ability to evoke time and place is unparalleled.

We’ll also discuss her latest work and what’s on the horizon for her fans. How does she balance historical accuracy with compelling fiction? What inspires her to revisit these tumultuous periods in history? And—perhaps most intriguingly—what’s next for Mandy Robotham?

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Community Questions

As always, we’ll end the show with our staple questions and open the floor to our Substack paid members. This is your chance to ask Mandy about her writing process, her research methods, or even the role her loyal muse dog, Basil, plays in her creative routine. Whether you’re curious about her favorite coffee shop writing spots or how she became Jack Savoretti’s number one fan, no question is too big or too small.

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Why You Don’t Want to Miss This Episode

Mandy Robotham’s journey from aspiring writer to USA TODAY bestseller is nothing short of inspiring. Her ability to weave historical events with deeply human stories offers a masterclass in storytelling, and her genuine love for her craft shines through in every interview. This Friday, join us for an intimate and enlightening conversation with one of historical fiction’s brightest stars. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and perhaps a cup of coffee—Mandy would approve!

WATCH THE LIVE INTERVIEW BELOW THIS PAYLINE: