Author celebrates first novel

A NEWLY released book inspired by the Greek pantheon is marking the debut of a first-time novelist.

Buninyong author Jade Andrews’ romantic fantasy book Pantheon of Life was launched on Wednesday and she said it’s surreal to see her work out there.

“It’s been such a long time coming,” she said. “Actually being able to hold it and see it in reality is surreal.

“The book’s inspired by a bit of Greek mythology but it follows a goddess who’s very much my own creation, and her journey of being cast out from the world of the gods into this fantasy kingdom.

“She starts seeing the impact of how wars between the gods have been happening in other realms. There’s definitely romantic elements and it’s a lot about the personal relationships.

“I was interested in creating these grounded characters even amongst this epic fantasy world with their own traumas we can relate to.”

Andrews crafted the first draft of the book in three weeks, after which she spent two years editing.

Having received a Bachelor of Creative Arts through La Trobe University followed by a Master of Arts with Deakin, she has previously published short stories through magazines and international outlets.

Andrews aims for her novel to be the first in a trilogy.

“Book two is well under way but it’s beginning to grow to a size that’s concerning so it may expand to a fourth book but we’ll see how we go,” she said. “The sequel will step back heavily into the realm of the gods and explores the greater impact of the worlds working around each other. It’ll open up the world a lot more.”

The book was launched through local publisher Shawline Publishing, where Andrews now works as part of the production crew.