This week I listened to the Book show on Talk Radio Europe, aware that I am one author on the show! My hubby and I tuned in together and waited patiently for my interview.

I have never listened to Talk Radio Europe before and didn’t know about the book show. The programme comes from Spain. The presenter of the Book Show is Hannah Murray, who has interviewed some fantastic authors including Lee Child, James Patterson, Sebastian Faulks, Jeffrey Archer, Wilbur Smith, and David Baldacci. To say I was privileged is an understatement!




Hannah Murray

On tuning in, we listened to the interviews of other writers, and I was interested in learning about their books. Kevan, on the other hand, only wanted to hear my slot!

One writer, in particular, grabbed my attention, Denny S Bryce. She researched people of colour in the Monarchy, and spoke of how it led her to write her novel, The Other Princess: "A vivid imagining of the life of Queen Victoria's Black Goddaughter" and you can find details about her book here
 

Following three successful author interviews, I found myself as the fourth out of six. Upon hearing Hannah introduce my novel, Bitter Pill,  Linked here, I experienced some nervousness since it was my first time listening to the interview.

Hannah recorded this interview in advance and I must admit, I was more relaxed than my first time when BBC Radio Cornwall interviewed me live.

I wasn’t at the studio this time, encountering the large blue microphone! 






Instead, this interview took place over zoom, with me sitting at my desk, in front of my computer, in the comfort of my home. 

Just like during my first radio interview with Julie Skentelbery, Hannah Murray also put me at ease — although we had only a couple of minutes before the session recording began.

During our conversation, Hannah asked what inspired me to write Bitter Pill. I talked about my nursing background, followed by the reasoning behind my  decision to train as a homeopath. 

I mentioned the many professionals I had worked with, both in my role as a nurse and as a homeopath, and how they maintained fixed beliefs around systems of healing without experiencing the broader picture.

As we chatted, it amazed me how relaxed I felt. I assume it was because we talked about topics I’m passionate about.

Although we chatted briefly about my characters in Bitter Pill and the theme of friendship, ambition and morals — which the book is about — the conversation steered to the choices we make in our lives around our healthcare. 

Bitter Pill explores the opposing fields of conventional vs holistic medicine and this led us on to discuss more about these issues.

I spoke about the Covid pandemic, resulting in a discussion about the nation’s requirement to conform by getting vaccinated, and the reasons behind this, given our democratic country.

I brought up the fact that the NHS failed my sister and niece by misdiagnosing them, ultimately leading to their deaths. 

Hannah shared about her mother’s experience, having received incorrect medication multiple times over. Her concerned father confronted doctors, both in the UK and Spain, but no answers or solutions were offered.

My aim was to ensure a balanced conversation. I didn’t want to use the opportunity to promote homeopathy; I wanted to explain my passion for my novel.

After the interview, we spoke with only seconds to spare. Hannah told me she was ‘on my side’ regarding alternative health.

I had a fleeting moment of concern afterward about our discussion and wondered if I would experience any backlash once the interview aired. 

Listening in brought fresh worries; in case our conversation sparked controversy. Kevan's view of the interview was that it may well do. He is proud that I remain strong to my beliefs, and has been on my homeopathic journey with me, but he pointed out that he would have liked listeners to learn more about my life as an author!

When hearing the interview, I realised the strength of my passion for homeopathy, and though I remain true to my preferred choice in healthcare, it wasn’t my intention to judge the conventional approach.

There is no control over content after being interviewed, but in retrospect, it would be preferable to edit out a few comments that may give rise to debate! In Bitter Pill, Lexie and Pippa are in continuous conflict, which drives their friendship apart. You can find out what happens when you read their story in Bitter Pill.

 

The Take-away 

Now my book is out there, I must be willing to share my thoughts and views about a controversial subject. To reiterate, I speak from my experience only. 

I speak with honesty, and from my heart, but if that triggers a negative response from people whose opinions differ, then that is their prerogative. I must remain true to myself. 

Go here to learn more about my book.