Alumna publishes second book in fantasy series
Jay Gregory, who graduated in English Literature with Creative Writing BA (Hons) in 2017, has published Wishstone, a new series set in an enigmatic, low-fantasy world where a neurodivergent young woman must survive a brutal system stacked against her.
Jay created the two Wishstone books over the course of five years, working on them in his spare time after work, independently publishing Maladies That Bind in December 2024, and Chains That Break in July. Both books were independently published through Amazon.
“Rather than a story of chosen ones,” Jay explains, “Wishstone is a tale of underdogs: relatable characters desperately struggling to persevere in the wake of world-changing events, unravelling a tale of friendship, mystery, and horror”.
He fondly remembers Dr Stephen Mooney, Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing, who was “especially helpful when I was getting orientated on what I wanted to do for my dissertation! I only wish I was still in Guildford, my university days were beyond fulfilling and I’m always quick to name drop the university.”
Jay continues:
“Growing up, it was always my dream to become a writer, but for a long time, writing a novel always felt like an unattainable goal. Studying Creative Writing at the University of Surrey helped me to develop my skills and gave me the confidence to persevere with my creative projects. The encouragement and feedback I received from Surrey’s brilliant tutors and lecturers was invaluable. They helped expose me to a whole world of writing and made me realise that becoming an author isn’t something that 'only happens to other people', but a real achievable ambition.
"What’s more, the course’s weekly creative writing workshops were an amazing experience. They offered a unique opportunity to share work, give and receive feedback, and have fun with my fellow students.
"I would absolutely recommend the University of Surrey to anyone passionate about reading and writing.”
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