Grimsby Author Dr. Zoë Marriott Hosts Book Signing at Waterstones

Dr. Zoë Marriott, a prominent author from Grimsby, will hold a book signing for her debut novel aimed at adults, *The Moonlit Maze*, at Waterstones on January 24, 2024. The event will take place between 11:00 and 15:00, marking a significant milestone in her literary career, which has primarily focused on children’s fiction.

Published by Headline Review in the summer of 2023, *The Moonlit Maze* quickly gained traction, becoming an Amazon top five bestseller in its genre and also making waves as an Apple Fiction Chart bestseller in Germany. Following the success of its hardback release, the novel is now available in paperback, further expanding its reach.

Author’s Journey and Inspirations

Dr. Marriott, who describes herself as a “working class girl from a council estate,” has been writing since she was 22. Despite her achievements, she candidly admits to experiencing imposter syndrome. “I am lucky enough to have an academic job now, and I am lucky enough to be published now. I think at a certain point I have to stop saying, ‘I don’t belong here,'” she said.

The inspiration for *The Moonlit Maze* stems from a deeply personal place, as it explores themes of loss through its protagonist, who faces a devastating tragedy reminiscent of Dr. Marriott’s own life experiences following her father’s death. Initially, she attempted to write the story as a young adult novel, but after feedback from publishers, she decided to set it aside. “It stayed there in the drawer, kind of throbbing at me,” she recalled.

After taking a break from young adult fiction, Dr. Marriott pursued a master’s degree in creative writing, despite not having an undergraduate degree. This academic journey ignited her passion for writing, leading her to eventually create *The Moonlit Maze* as part of her doctorate with the Open University. “At the end of three years, I had a new book and I had my thesis, and I got my PhD and a publishing deal—so it all worked out brilliantly,” she expressed.

Reader Reception and Future Projects

The book has received acclaim from readers, who have described it as “evocative” and “gripping,” with many stating they were left “spellbound” by its storytelling. Dr. Marriott has previously published several young adult novels, including *The Swan Kingdom*, *Daughter of the Flames*, and *Shadows on the Moon*, among others.

As she prepares for the upcoming book signing, Dr. Marriott reflects on her journey and the significance of this new chapter in her writing career. Enthusiastic fans and readers alike are expected to turn out for this opportunity to meet the author and celebrate her latest literary achievement.