When were you at QEH?

I attended QEH from 2012 - 2019. 

What do you do now?

At this moment in time, I run a Film Production Company called Toad Abode Productions and have done since mid-2021. I am in development for a major film project set to film in 2024. I also currently live in Nottingham and work as a Freelance Producer for some of my new clients here. In my spare time, I still spend a lot of time writing, and now this year, starting work on a second book and more scripts…

What is your novel about?

My novel is set in modern day New York City, and follows the lives of Lauren Monroe, a New York Times journalist and divorcee, and James L.Conway, a Wall Street Financial Consultant, and widower, who attend one of Manhattan's regular lavish galas. The event is designed to bring the top earners and the elite in New York together, and on this particular night, without a hint of what may unfold. A night of limited expectations and loosely tuning in to conversations, suddenly turns into a world of possibilities that these two strangers may just have found something above Manhattan's illustrious skyline.

What inspired you to write a book?

I always had a great passion for writing, of course I still do, and when I turned 18 I set about achieving that lifetime goal of having a book on a book shelf in a bookstore somewhere in the world. I didn’t realise it would happen 5 years down the line with my first book. I’ve always leaned towards the idea of Fate and romanticism, and the idea that every moment in life leads to the next. Writing was always my escape, so I thought of nothing better than to challenge myself by getting lost in a story set with such a grand background such as New York City. Books always help me, words always strike me, and if anything that feeling that I have always felt, inspired me greatly to create that feeling for someone else.

Where can we buy your book?

‘A New York Night’ came out on January 25th 2024. It is available to order from Waterstones, Foyles, Amazon, Pegasus Publishers & Browns Books. With more places to purchase it from to come further down the line.

When were you last at QEH?

I last visited QEH back over the summer of 2022 and had the pleasure of giving a talk to one of, former teacher, Dr Dutton’s classes about filmmaking. It was a real honour to do so and also weird going back to the school!

Can you share a memory of your era at QEH?

So many memories to count. More fondly I’d say, performing at Open Mic Nights, being creative with music with wonderfully, talented, like-minded musicians. 

Are you still in touch with your QEH friends?

 I have a couple of great close friends that I always stay in touch with, and we always make the time to meet up and catch up about what seems to be our ever-growing, fast paced lives.

Thanks Rhys for sharing your story and QEH memories. If you too would like to share where you are now, please get in touch with Abi by emailing apurvis@qehbristol.co.uk