James Seymour is hosting an author talk about his two novels, Turner’s Rage and sequel Turner’s Awakening in Gerringong next month. 

The free event is scheduled at the Gerringong Library on Saturday 24 February at 1pm until 2pm. James will be sharing his insights and inspirations for his historical fiction series. With a third book on the way, James will be sharing some of his work and some stories about his journey from accountant to published writer.

The first of the series is set in Guildford, England, 1826 against the backdrop of the Industrial Revolution. James takes inspiration from tales of his great grandfather’s real life to create an encapsulating story of secret, tragedy, romance and family turmoil. There’s something for everyone. 

The story follows the main character, six-year-old William Turner and his sister Anne as they navigate the fortunes and adversities the family face during the Industrial Revolution. 

“Mystery, romance, grief and exhilaration bind the family and community together in a gripping adventure as the Turners exploit technological developments and manage social change.”

James is a retired CPA who began writing his book in Brisbane before moving to the Gerringong area where he plans to continue the series, with several more instalments in the works. 

“They say everyone has a book in them, I think I’ve got four or five,” says James about his progress with the series. He has big plans for his characters and is already halfway through the third novel in the series, Turner’s Strength which will follow William Turner’s journey to South Africa. It is sure to be an action packed instalment in the thrilling historical fiction series.

James believes the support of his family, particularly his wife, has been instrumental in pursuing his literary ambitions. He talks about the fun he had writing and researching these novels. He says his wife loves to ‘travel with a purpose’. His research has led him to travel parts of England, reconnecting with historical roots and investigating his family’s ancestry. Particularly the English town of Guildford where his great grandfather grew up that James explains is an “interesting, wonderful town with a fantastic history.”  

James continues to captivate audiences with his vivid storytelling and unwavering passion for bringing history to life through the lens of romance and adventure.