A labour of love by a local woman has allowed the publication of a story her mother began writing more than two decades ago. Patricia Cashmore embarked on the project, a fictional novel called Giants Amongst Their Fellows, and was in the process of working with an editor to format the basic manuscript when the author passed away.
Cashmore's daughter, local painter Danielle Clarke, was determined to see her mother's work completed, and began working in earnest alongside editor Michelle Holyhead.
"Though Trish was the principal architect of this fictional novel, much of the credit for its completion goes out to her daughter, Danielle. Together, these two passionate, intuitive women, without any collaboration between one another, have produced a seamless work of art," said Ms Holyhead.
"I was aware that Trish's health was deteriorating, but amidst my correspondence with her, Trish remained intently focused on her dream; to finally see her work published. Naturally, this regrettable news meant that Trish's years of hard work and dedication to her project, would never come to fruition.
"Danielle knew that her mother and I were working on the title, but she had little knowledge of its content.
"The day after Trish's funeral, Danielle began filtering through the chapters on her mother's computer. At the time, they were far from complete, but she was mesmerised by what she read.
"Not only did she gain an unfathomable insight into her mother, Danielle was also astonished to recognise distinct correlations to some of the story's events from her own life. Trish's laptop remained open on Danielle's office table, dormant for weeks, whilst she considered her options.
"I received another call from her shortly thereafter. 'Michelle...I know I have huge shoes to fill, but this is Mum's legacy...her dream...I have to finish writing her book. Will you help me along the way?'"
"In a nutshell, I finished what my mother was unable to," Ms Clarke said, citing an outpouring of local support to help her achieve her goal.
"The manuscript, in its entirety, has been professionally edited and formatted along with its artwork. Special internal artwork has also been added before every chapter pertaining to the story.
"I'm simply overwhelmed with the support I've received," she said.
"Due to the sheer cost of self publishing, local businesses have generously donated their products for the event, including Riverfresh IGA, Witchy Liquor, Leeuwin Estate, Margaret River Beverages and Margaret River Office Depot.
"All fantastic people whom I have had the pleasure of knowing over the years, now helping me out, along with the kindness of facebook users spreading the word as well as my other cherished relationships in the business sector.
"Obviously an enormous thanks is due to Keith and Pauline at the Margaret River Bookshop for hosting the launch.
Giants Amongst Their Fellows will be launched at the MR Bookshop this Thursday November 14 from 6.15pm.
