Retired Mary pens a political thriller

A RETIRED professor from Sharnford has written a political thriller based on the exotic life of her brother.

Mary Collis, 74, is publishing her debut novel Gabriel’s Journey, based on her sibling’s diaries from when he travelled around the world as a lecturer.

The book follows the story of a man who wakes up in a hospital with no knowledge of his past, with episodes and characters inspired by Ms Collis’ brother’s time living in Russia in the 60s and in India and Japan.

He worked as a lecturer in Town Planning for Oxford Brookes University while Ms Col- lis used to teach International Business Studies at Coventry University.

She said: “My brother’s diaries which detailed his extensive world travels provided the research for the book in addition to my records of many revealing and interesting conversations I have had with.

These conversations alongside my insight into his personality allowed me a unique perspective.

“He’s a very self orientated person, he had lots of relationships all over the world.

“The narrative is recounted in a way that is designed to raise a number of poignant questions in the mind of the reader.

“Why is Gabriel living with the fear that the deep hidden secrets of his past are about to resurface?

“Why is he under the surveillance of both the British and Russian intelligence?”

The ex-academic said she already considering doing sequel.

The book is published by Book Guild Publishing in Kibworth and is available for purchase on Amazon.

It is also available at Waterstones book stores. is a