AN AUTHOR has published a new book, after developing a short story during lockdown.

Lisette Skeets, 66, from Halstead, is a regular writer.

Her latest book is called Turquoise Dolphins, and is a fantasy book about Scoot, a boy who doesn’t want to go to school.

The synopsis reads: ‘On the brightest of late summer days, a fourteen-year-old boy named Scoot hops out of bed with a very different plan from his school’s timetable. Full of energy, he seeks freedom for one brilliant day, and in a little boat of his own, Scoot sets sail.’

Originally growing up in Great Horkesley, Lisette has always enjoyed writing, and now being retired focuses on it regularly.

Signed to SBPRA Publishing, she has previously had them publish two novels.

One was titled A Very Inappropriate Affair, which addresses romantic pairings and questions that come with that.

The other was No Medals for M.E, which includes Lisette’s own experiences with the illness myalgic encephalomyelitis.

She began writing Turquoise Dolphins as a short book, with it being published previously in short form.

Lisette thinks it is a great book for all ages, with messages to take from the story.

She said: “It is a fantasy story with elements you can take from it.

“It has messages about animals, the environment, as well as helping with children unsure of what they want to do.

“Sometimes as a parent you can worry and question if your child isn’t fitting in with the norm, not following conventions and rules, this may help.”

The Halstead resident is looking to write a sequel to No Medals for M.E to come out in the new year.

All her books are available from Essex County Libraries, with the most recent three on Amazon.

Turquoise Dolphins is on Amazon for £7.27 on Kindle, the hardback copy is £18.46.