Emma Batten -
Author of Historical Fiction set on Kent's Romney Marsh.
I am a truly local author. Living in and writing about Romney Marsh means I can fully engage in the history of the area and connect with my readers. I learn about an event or custom – the great storm which changed the coastline, the body of a monk being secretly carried across the marsh, magical qualities associated with hagstones – and use these to create a whole novel. Fictional characters are put in recognisable settings as we follow the story of their lives. The eras range from the 7th to the 20th century, giving me an opportunity to explore so much of our history through writing. That local feel to my books now extends to them having distinctive covers with original artwork by artists from Greatstone, Lydd and New Romney, making the books even more special for me.
More recently I have been providing unique writing workshops. These are created by myself and give attendees the opportunity to learn about our history as well as produce their own piece of creative writing.
What is happening?
I have now returned to giving talks for local groups, running workshops and am looking forward to the summer fairs. I have workshops planned throughout the year. So far in 2022, my workshop attendees have time travelled to Medieval times, but through the summer we will be creating characters who will be visiting the holiday camps of the 1950s.
August 2022 - The Whitsun Gallop, a sequel to But First Maintain the Wall will be ready in the middle of August.
All novels are available on Kindle, Kindle Unlimited and as paperback novels.
The paperbacks are for sale in the Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, The Bucket and Spade (Dymchurch), The Chocolate Deli (Hythe), Salts Farm (near Rye), The Cosy Kettle (Hamstreet), Waterstones Ashford. Also by clicking on the links below or if you live locally please contact me through this website as I can offer the best price as prices below include postage. If you would like more than two books please contact me as I can offer a reduction on postage.
The Whitsun Gallop
£11.00
On the day of the Whitsun Gallop, the people of Romney Marsh gather. It is a day to parade in their best outfits, make merry, and wager on which gentleman jockey will glory. When the prize cup is stolen, a chain of events is set in place, rocking the secure world of Phoebe and Harry Farrers.