Louise Jensen Duffy - Winner
Winner of Cheshire novel Prize 2023 – Mrs P. Goes to Town
Louise is newly represented by one of our 2023 judges, Katie Fulford from Bell Lomax Moreton Literary Agency.
To date, Louise has written five novels and, while technically they’re her first foray into fiction, she spent the last twenty-odd years writing for government, which has given her a solid foundation in creative writing.
One of her previous titles, MISS MERRIMAN REGRETS (historical women’s fiction with light speculative elements), was long-listed for the 2022 Cheshire Novel Prize and shortlisted for the 2022 Comedy Women in Print Award, winning the CWIP Runner-up Unpublished Book to Screen Award.
What made you enter the Cheshire novel Prize?
I first entered in 2022 for two reasons, one because the Cheshire gave a strong impression of welcoming all genres, and two because receiving feedback is irresistible. And, obviously, I had to enter again in 2023 for the same reasons!
What did it feel like when you were LL and SL?
(Embarrassingly) I woot-ed really loudly down the phone, I was so shocked. Then had to apologise for probably causing Sara ear-damage.
Being long-listed for the Cheshire in 2022 was the first time I was ever recognised for my writing in any way. It was almost an out-of-body experience – someone else thought I could do this!
Making both the LL and SL in 2023 was surreal, the most amazing, validating, brilliant feeling.
What was the reaction like from those around you? Family? Friends?
My husband was so proud I thought he might burst. I practically had to tackle him to stop him posting which book was mine. I live on the opposite side of the world to most of my friends and family, so woke up to lots of congratulations and well-wishes.
How did you come up with the idea for your book?
To be honest, I’m not entirely sure now, it kind of evolved. I wanted a middle-aged ‘Cinderella-story’ but with found-family and female friendships instead of a prince, and this is the result.
How long did it take you to write it?
Probably around six months to actually write, the editing and re-writing after several rounds of critique and feedback…longer.
What’s it about?
Set in 1933 Australia, it’s about a 64-year-old woman who’s done what’s expected of her all her life. Then, when her abusive husband dies, she inherits an unexpected fortune and a second chance at life, if only she can keep hold of both.
Seizing the opportunity, Mrs P’ literally ‘goes to town’, leaving her tiny outback home and travelling the 500 miles to Sydney. Once there she ‘goes to town’ in earnest with fun, fashion, and friendship.
But, of course, the more she spends, the worse it looks back home and Mrs P’ ends up having to return home and fight to keep her new life.
What’s your writing routine?
I like to have a ‘thinking-walk’ before I write anything. I have to know what’s going to happen. If I try and sit down to a blank page without thinking things out first, it stays a blank page.
What’s next for you?
Currently working on another historical novel, this time set in 1939. WW2 is a departure from my usual early 1930s settings so enjoying some research (aka procrastination).
Have you done any writing courses?
Not so much courses as critique groups, and writing conferences, although I have signed up for the next Cheshire Summer School, which I’m told is brilliant.
What are your two favourite books and why?
I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith, which has an amazingly appealing narrator and brilliantly demonstrates how to do a ‘not-quite-happy’ ending.
Also, The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim. A wonderful, warm story of second chances, found family and female friendship.
What advice do you have for any aspiring writers?
Do it!
But also:
Read books on writing
Join a writers’ group
Share your work, and critique the writing of others in exchange (invaluable!)
Enter the Cheshire Novel Prize.