Author Interview – Coleen Greenwood – Playing With Fire: The True Story Of Fireman Scam

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, Coleen Greenwood shares the experience of being lied to by the man she loved that inspired her to write her memoir, Playing With Fire: The True Story Of Fireman Scam.

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed Coleen Greenwood about the life experiences with a con man that inspired her to write her memoir with her sister, Karen Crear, Playing With Fire: The True Story Of Fireman Scam.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

My name is Coleen Greenwood. I’m 50 years old and live in North Yorkshire with my husband Scott, son Charlie and two stepsons plus our two feisty pussy cats.

When did you first WANT to write a book?

After having a particularly traumatic time in my life I wanted to get my story down on paper. Firstly, as a cathartic exercise for me to heal but also to hopefully help other people experiencing something similar

When did you take a step to start writing?

Once I knew that I was in the right headspace to be able to tell my story in my own words.

How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?

Seven months.

How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?

Currently writing my second book.

Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write Playing With Fire?

The need to tell my story in my own words and make others going through a similar experience realize they are not to blame, and it does not need to define the rest of their life.

What were your biggest challenges with writing Playing With Fire?

Reliving some very personal difficult times in my life. I got through many boxes of tissues during my writing.

What was your research process for Playing With Fire?

Reading through text messages, speaking to family, and trawling through many fake documents. Also speaking to the Police and reading court documentations.

How did you plan the structure of Playing With Fire?

I wanted to write the book in a linear style and as if I was telling the tale to a friend over a cup of coffee. I wanted to write it as it happened so that the reader could feel the emotions I did and understand my thought processes.

Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did Playing With Fire need?

I did have the book professionally edited but it needed minimal work.

What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a book?

Just take the plunge and don’t overwhelm yourself. Give yourself small daily writing challenges (perhaps 500 words) and if it gets too difficult take a break.

Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?

I have been asked to continue my story as readers are keen to find out what happened next so that is what I am doing.

And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

It was most definitely worth the effort. We donate a portion of each book sale to Women’s Aid so we’re helping an extremely worthwhile charity. I have also been approached by many women (and men) who have been through a similar experience, and they have shared their stories with me plus I have been told that my book has helped their recovery process which is lovely to hear.

Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:

www.firemanscam.com

https://www.instagram.com/firemanscam/

https://www.twitter.com/firemanscam/

https://www.tiktok.com/@firemanscamuk

https://www.youtube.com/@firemanscam

Kindle: https://amzn.to/47G8yTW

Paperback: https://amzn.to/47FLYdV

https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=M5W4EAAAQBAJ&rdid=book-M5W4EAAAQBAJ&rdot=1&pli=1

https://www.waterstones.com/book/playing-with-fire/coleen-greenwood/karen-crear/9781739276508