Forum topic: Plaudits for local author's debut novel

At age of 55 a Palmers Green resident is on the verge of seeing his childhood dream of having a book published come true.  Stephen Cox will be launching his debut novel, Our Child of the Stars, on 24th January, and has already won critical praise.

Stephen took up novel writing six years ago.  Our Child of the Starsis the first of two books forthcoming from national publisher Jo Fletcher Books and is winning plaudits from lovers of warm family drama and fans of sci-fi alike.  A review in the Guardian on 11th January said it was "refreshingly optimistic", with "sympathetic characterisation and fine storytelling".  Candis magazine called it "an uplifting tale of love and adventure", while fantasy author Juliet E McKenna found it "wholly fresh and utterly gripping".

Publisher Jo Fletcher said,

"Set in 1960s America, Our Child of the Stars tells the story of Cory, a lost boy with a remarkable appearance, the lengths his adopted family will go to protect him, and the secret that refuses to stay hidden. It is a rare novel of warmth, goodness and generosity."

Stephen Cox and his family live in Bowes ward, he’s a member of Winchmore Hill Quaker Meeting, and both his children were educated at Winchmore School.  He worked at Great Ormond Street Hospital for twelve years as Head of Communications and is currently a freelance author and communications consultant.

He explains that, "For those people who think it’s too late to take up something creative, I’ve felt I ought to write a book since I was a child.  At 55, I’ve proved you can get serious about writing, find an agent, and win a publishing deal at any age,’’ and adds that, "Although there is sadness and darkness in the world, there is also hope, and I hope to reflect that in my writing."

The book is available from all good bookshops, Enfield libraries, and also as an audiobook and e-book.