Author Rachel Fegan talks about the 90s, What winds her up and her debut novel.

They say everybody has a book in them, but you have written yours and it went to Number 2 on Amazon, Have you always been a storyteller? Tell us how you became a published author.

I started writing in lockdown. It was a strange time for everyone, I was shielding, It was one of my daughters who said to me "Mum you’re always saying you could write a book, why don’t you?"

I contacted lots of publishers but without an agent they wouldn’t accept my submission so I contacted independent publishers and it was Phil M. Shirley at Foreshore who picked it up, He has been supportive since day one, he actually used to live in Liverpool so he immediately understood the Scouse humour. I received a two book deal the first one The Wonder Bra Years is out now and the second I’m working on.

This particular story is about a period of time in your hometown of Liverpool, how did you gather your material, was it from memory or did you research or ask friends?

Once I established my book was going to be based in the 90s I wanted to ensure my references were accurate. I didn’t want any comeback once the book was written so I spent six months researching making sure every item of clothing, the locations even the toiletries were correct for the time, Remember there was no social media or Internet back then. I didn’t make it year specific just decade.

Do you base your characters on your own experiences and characteristics, on others or are they entirely fiction?

The names of the main characters Nikky and Sharon were purely because in the 80s and 90s so many girls were called Nikky and Sharon, Some books winds me up when they include names that just didn’t exist back then. I would say 50% of the story happened to me 25% are stories told to me by other people while the other 25% is my creative license to ensure an interesting story line.

If “The Wonder Bra Years” was made into a movie what actor would you like to play your protagonist?

If or rather when The Wonder Bra Years is made into a movie (I am manifesting that happening) I would have to have a think about my lead actor, A lot of new local talent has emerged from programmes such as This city is ours and Unforgivable and there are so many great young actors who could play my characters. As a Scouser myself I admit we do criticise anyone who takes off the Scouse accent and I would be upset if anyone thought the accents in my play or TV show were not convincing., but I also understand you can’t please everyone.

What authors inspire you?

I have to admit, I’m not a big reader. I love the author NJ Miller, the books 53 and The Big House are my favourites.

Do you have any advice for budding writers?

My advice for would be just do it. There will be days when you wake up and you don’t want to write or you’re stuck for ideas, keep a note pad or make notes on your phones notes app and if you think of something write it down, I have three note pads full of stuff. The idea for this book came to me at 3am one night, It just struck me obviously the Wonder Bra was huge in the 90s and then there was American TV show the The Wonder Years and my book was based in the 90s so it just all came together.

What’s next ?

Watch this space!

The Wonder Bra Years is available on Amazon and Waterstones

CLICK HERE

Rachel Fegan’s brilliant debut novel about a teenage girl growing up in Liverpool in the early 90s and the good and bad times.

At 18, Nicky is waiting for the phone to ring after a whirlwind romance—her only confidence boost is her Wonder Bra. With her birthday party approaching and family expectations looming, she’s navigating her new job at Liverpool’s hottest cocktail bar, Labellos. A girls’ trip to Crete introduces her to the charming Steven, but disappointment follows. Back home, a wild stag night with Joe leads to unexpected betrayal and desire.

As secrets pile up, Nicky faces a shocking dilemma. Caught between safety and thrill, she must confront her choices and what they mean for emerging adulthood.

The Wonder Bra Years is a heartfelt journey of love, loss, and self-discovery in the Nineties.