Some stories come from unexpected sources.

How Hollityne’s Quest began from a simple request.

Hollityne’s Quest began when a young family member approached me on her tenth birthday. She had discovered that I had written a book and excitedly asked if I would write a story about turtles, which she clearly loves, and dedicate it to her. How could I refuse such a request despite not knowing much about these sea creatures at the time? I realised this wasn’t just a setting for a story; it was the message itself about the suffering of animals harmed by circumstances not of their making. A struggle for survival and renewal and how we care for the animals in the world we cohabit.

The novel’s world grew from those thoughts. I wanted readers to feel the experiences from the animals’ point of view and our own. To sense the living connection between people, animals and the environment. In writing it, I learned again what it means to see things from a different perspective.

This weekend I am looking forward to being at the Charnwood Eco Hub Christmas Eco Market in Loughborough on 2nd November 2025. Events like this bring together people who believe creativity and sustainability can work hand in hand. I’ll have a stand there with my books, and I’d love to talk with anyone interested in reading these.

If you can’t make it, you can still explore Hollityne’s Quest and my other work on my website below to sign up to receive more reflections and updates.

www.oxlebo.com