Writer publishes her sequel tale after debut book is a hit

A former Caistor Yarborough pupil has published her second children's book - after the first was a nationwide hit.
Nina Ratcliffe EMN-160527-120830001Nina Ratcliffe EMN-160527-120830001
Nina Ratcliffe EMN-160527-120830001

Nina Ratcliffe started writing ‘Dublin and Friends’ four years ago when she was on maternity leave from her care job, and pregnant with her son Jacob.

This book - based on Nina’s memories of her horse called Dublin - was a success, which paved the way for follow up tale Dublin and Friends Horsing Around.

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Nina, 29, said: “The second book is the next one in the series, comical stories based on memories from my own horses.

“I’ve done really well. I’m in touch with libraries all over the country.

“I owe my success to the support of my husband [Jon].

“He’s been absolutely brilliant throughout this.”

But Nina did not always foresee a career as a writer.

She said: “It’s something I was always good at but never thought could pursue as a career.

“When I was on maternity leave I was so huge I couldn’t do much.

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“I started writing down memories trying to build a storyboard.

“I sent it off to someone in London for feedback and they offered me a publication contract, which came as a bit of a shock.”

In the end Nina decided to self-publish - and the books have won her son’s seal of approval.

The stories are aimed at seven to 14 year olds and are available to buy in bookstores and online.

And Nina already has her next writing project lined up.

She said: “I’ve got another genre ready to go.

“It’s a children’s thriller, with 20 chapters.

“I’m waiting to hear back from an agent.”

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But Nina remained tight-lipped on any specific plot details.

Over the coming months Nina will be holding various signing and book events around the county.

Tomorrow evening (Thursday, June 2), she will be giving an ‘inspirational’ talk to Caistor WI.

This will take place in the town hall at 7.30pm.

Non-WI members are welcome but will be asked to pay £3.50.

And Nina will be selling her books at Brocklesby Country fair on on Sunday, June 19.

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