Today on Meet the Author we’re featuring Melissa Wray. Melissa is passionate about education, particularly literacy, and believes the ability to read and write gives power to change. Melissa enjoys writing fiction with snippets of fact blended within her work. Her style is constantly evolving and she is looking forward to sharing her stories and spending time creating new ones.
Melissa’s latest release is The Lost Loot of Lima, a novel for ages 7 to 12. It tells the story of a boy named Ben, who discovers a treasure map left by his grandfather, who recently passed away. He embarks on one last treasure hunt with the help of his nan. But does someone else know about the location of the treasure? Ben must face danger and use his wits, or risk losing the loot forever. But more importantly, Ben must deal with his grief and say goodbye to his treasured grandfather.
Where did the inspiration for the story come from?
The idea for The Lost Loot of Lima was originally a 3000-word short story for a writing competition offered through Writers Victoria in 2016. The theme was ‘My Local Area’. Initially, I wanted to showcase all the things that the beautiful coastal town of Queenscliff has to offer. As I researched the area, I discovered the story of Benito the pirate and his buried treasure. I’ve lived near Queenscliff for many years and knew nothing about it! The more I researched the treasure, the more I knew it had to be a key feature within the story.
Which character do you identify with most in your story?
I identify with the main character Ben and the close relationship he has with his grandfather. Growing up, I was very close to my great-grandmother. The connection between Nana and me was always very special. I cherish my memories of my great-grandmother, so I wanted the inter-generational connection to be important. For me, this is the heart of the book. The mystery, action and adventure were a beautiful bonus, so it appealed to the younger audience.
When did you start writing?
I completed a creative writing course over 18 months after I had my firstborn baby many years ago. I naively thought I would have lots of spare time on my hands to write, haha!
How many books have you had released?
Before The Lost Loot of Lima I had three young adult novels published across three different publishers. They include Summer Change (Rhiza Edge/Wombat Books), The Ruby Locket (Odyssey Books), Summer Change (Morris Publishing).
What do you love most about fiction and your genre in particular?
I enjoy reading books that do not reflect my reality. For this reason, I really enjoy dystopian stories (being immersed in an alternate world), mysteries (to try and solve) and stories that have depth but with a light-hearted approach.
How important is it to read books when you want to be an author?
It is important to read and get a feel for writing styles, but more importantly, go and listen to an author speak. Attend book launches. Hear about the author’s approach, research, style, writing journey and hopes for the story they wrote. I have attended many over the years and truly think these have been a motivating force for me.
Share three things that people may not already know about you.
- Editing is my favourite part of the writing process. I learn so much from it.
- Growing up, we had a plum tree in the backyard that I was sure was just like the Magic Faraway tree. I waited many hours to see Silky or Moonface!
- I once slept in the open under the stars in the desert of Egypt.
Have readers ever contacted you? If so, tell us the best thing they’ve said to you.
Last year a young reader dressed as Benito the Pirate for his school Book Week parade. That was the BEST compliment I could get!
You can follow Melissa via her Instagram https://www.instagram.com/liss_wray/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DreamBigReadOften/
Or check out her website: https://melissawray.blogspot.com/