A KENDAL writer has completed an astonishing 11 books - just four years after starting her new creative career.

Julie Patten's prolific output includes two books of quirky verse, a book of short stories and eight new novels.

She has been writing her books since 2011 and her first collection of poetry, Hopscotch, was published the following year.

Since then Julie continued busily writing but without making any of her work publicly available - until now.

"Sometimes people ask me where they can be bought, so I decided to design a website where people can read about them," she said. "There's also an opportunity for a free read before buying.

"All the stories are wildly different but one thing they have in common is that the characters often have stormy relationships, face challenging situations and live difficult lives. And there is always a surprise ending."

Julia, now retired, worked in public relations and publicity for many years writing commercial material.

"I never imagined I would ever be writing fiction or quirky verses, but it has become an absorbing interest and one, I hope, which will entertain others as well."

Julie regularly reads out her writings at Verbalise, the Brewery Arts Centre's monthly spoken word event and is always happy to give readings if asked.

All the books are available through her new website, novelsforyou.wix.com/novelsforyou