Picture a British storyteller who swapped the stage for the page, crafting gripping tales that pull readers into the messy, beautiful world of young adulthood—meet Julie Mayhew! This actress-turned-author has carved a niche in young adult literature with her bold, thought-provoking novels like Red Ink and The Big Lie. With a knack for blending raw emotion with sharp social commentary, Mayhew’s work resonates with teens and adults alike, making her a standout voice in contemporary fiction.
The Making of Julie Mayhew
Born in Peterborough, England, Julie Mayhew grew up with a storyteller’s heart. She studied journalism at Bournemouth University, honing her ability to capture life’s nuances, before diving into acting at Drama Studio London. Acting was her first love, but the lack of compelling roles for women pushed her toward writing. This pivot wasn’t just a career shift—it was a rebellion against limited narratives, setting the stage for her powerful storytelling. From radio presenting to modeling for Rankin, Mayhew’s eclectic path shaped her versatile voice.
Julie Mayhew’s Unforgettable Stories
Mayhew’s novels are a masterclass in tackling tough themes with heart and grit. Her debut, Red Ink (2013), follows Melon Fouraki, a teen grappling with her mother’s sudden death and a tangled family history. Shortlisted for the 2014 Branford Boase Award and nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Medal, it’s a raw, funny, and heartbreaking coming-of-age tale. The Big Lie (2015) takes a darker turn, imagining a contemporary Nazi Britain where teen Jessika navigates love, rebellion, and propaganda. This chilling dystopian novel won the 2015 Sidewise Award for Alternate History and earned another Carnegie nomination.
Her 2019 thriller Impossible Causes blends mystery with eerie folklore, while Mother Tongue explores the aftermath of a terrorist attack. Mayhew’s style is unflinching—she dives into themes like grief, identity, and societal control with a lyrical yet accessible voice. Her radio plays, like A Shoebox of Snow and The Electrical Venus, both nominated for BBC Audio Drama Awards, showcase her knack for intimate, evocative storytelling across mediums.
Why Julie Mayhew Matters
Julie Mayhew’s impact lies in her fearless exploration of the messy edges of youth. Her novels don’t shy away from tough topics—whether it’s questioning authority in The Big Lie or unpacking family myths in Red Ink—yet they remain hopeful, empowering readers to confront their own truths. Beyond writing, Mayhew nurtures new talent through mentorship programs like The WoMentoring Project, particularly for writers in her hometown of Peterborough. Her work in radio, stage, and screen further amplifies her influence, proving she’s a storyteller for all seasons.
- Born: Peterborough, England
- Key Works: Red Ink, The Big Lie, Impossible Causes, Mother Tongue
- Awards: 2015 Sidewise Award for Alternate History, multiple CILIP Carnegie Medal nominations
- Fun Fact: She hosts The Berko Speakeasy, a short story cabaret in Hertfordshire!
Ready to dive into Julie Mayhew’s bold, beautiful world? Grab Red Ink or The Big Lie and get lost in her unforgettable stories!