A NEWTON Abbot author’s debut, full-length novel explores themes of female friendship and self discovery and it is set for release next week.

E I (Liz) Parr, who lives in Newton Abbot and was been a longtime creative, is gearing up for the release of her first novel – a psychological drama called ‘Thistle in the Long Grass’.

Set against the social landscape of the 1970s and 80s, this sensitive and considered psychological drama explores themes of friendship, self-discovery and the female experience; the story follows Thistle, a young woman on a journey to move beyond her past.

Liz said: ‘I found myself studying a thistle, with its beautiful bloom surrounded by sharp barbs and spiky leaves.

‘For me it symbolised an emotionally damaged person who has learned to protect themselves by keeping their inner loveliness inaccessible.

‘Thistle’s character grew from that symbolism.’

The author studied psychology as part of various roles working supportively with groups and individuals, predominantly teenagers and adults: she has also spent time as an integrative therapist.

‘The book strives to unravel its key characters, especially Thistle, and in doing so cultivate empathy for those human beings that we just don’t understand’ Liz added.

‘People do not have either ‘halos’ or ‘horns.’

‘This psychological drama contains a dark and disturbing theme; true to real life there is humour and pathos.

‘It paints one social landscape of twentieth century England, particularly the ‘female’ experience.’

Thistle in the Long Grass, which is due for release on Saturday, January 28, is being publihsed by The Book Guild Ltd.

The Book Guild Ltd is a well-established, independent book publishing company based in Leicestershire.

It has been publishing books in all subjects for more than 30 years.