Ella Allbright is a Dorset-based author with a day job as a senior human resources professional.
She also writes under the name of Nikki Moore and is published by One More Chapter, a digital first division of HarperCollins.
What would be your perfect day out in Dorset?
It would have to involve the beach and our family, including our beagle puppy Luna. There’s nothing quite like the tang of salt in the air and a sea view to remind you to slow down and relax. We’d visit Hengistbury Head, Sandbanks, Lulworth Cove and walk along the cliff path to Durdle Door. Lulworth and Durdle are my two favourite places in the world, which is why both locations are in my new book.
What are your fondest memories of the county?
I had a very happy childhood riding my bike and hanging out beside Tuckton river or on a beach with my close friendship group. I went to Bournemouth schools and my teens were spent in Bournemouth Gardens, at Segaworld and later in various pubs going to gigs, as we all loved Britpop and Grunge - it was the 90’s!
My fondest adult memories include weddings, parties, concerts and days out in Dorset with friends and family.
What has been your proudest achievement?
Being offered my first publishing deal in 2013. More than that, it’s about not giving up when faced with adversity. I had a serious illness in 2008 and during that time decided to start writing seriously to get published. Once I recovered, I put my head down and got on with it. Hard work and perseverance have been so important, along with the support of authors, my publisher, my literary agent, the book community and the Romantic Novelists’ Association - consequently I’m a big supporter of other authors, aspiring writers, and the RNA.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get a huge buzz from getting things done.
At the heart of it, I enjoy helping people, connecting with them and making a difference.
So creating stories which allow people to escape into different worlds, or steering an organisation through change as painlessly as possible, inspires me to get up every day.
What would be your favourite thing to do when you have a day off?
In between juggling everything, i love reading, shopping for books – especially at Westbourne Books, an independent family owned bookshop – and going for walks. Our quality of life has improved enormously since getting the dog, and if I stay in too long during the day I get really restless.
Where is your favourite place to eat in the county?
If we’re after delicious food in a warm, friendly atmosphere we love the Koh Thai restaurants. If it’s a special occasion and we want to dress up, The Jetty in Christchurch is an award-winning restaurant with lovely waterside views and the best seafood around.
What three things do you associate with Dorset?
Sandy beaches, a place that’s amazing writing inspiration and my social circle – my family and friends.
If you could summarise the county in one word what would it be?
Stunning. The gorgeous views and sunsets never fail to amaze me, but it’s not just the beautiful beaches and rugged coastlines that take my breath away, it’s also the rivers, fields and forests. If I didn’t live here, I know I’d sorely miss the scenery. The people are lovely too.
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