Interview Conducted with Amy Matthews by an Unnamed Writer
Amy Matthews, a celebrated South Australian author and Associate Professor of Creative Writing at Flinders University, has made a name for herself in the literary world with her diverse range of writing. Spanning across various genres, including general women's fiction, literary fiction, romance, and historical romance, Matthews' work is renowned for its honesty, warmth, and humour.
Her latest novel, Best, First and Last, has struck a chord with readers, earning critical acclaim for its heartfelt portrayal of three women from one family as they grapple with heartbreak. The story, set during a chaotic, funny, and healing hike through Peru, presents a compelling narrative that resonates with readers.
Matthews, who writes under multiple pen names, including Amy Barry and Tess LeSue, finds shifting gears between her different author identities and genres easier due to her wide reading habits. Her academic background at Flinders University, where she has studied the craft of writing for over twenty years, has undoubtedly contributed to her versatility.
In addition to her literary pursuits, Matthews is surrounded by passionate, enthusiastic students who are dreaming big and full of the love of writing. Teaching Creative Writing at Flinders University is a daily reminder of the joys of writing and a reminder of the challenges and journey it entails.
When she's not teaching or writing, Matthews enjoys unwinding in McLaren Vale, a favourite spot in South Australia. A slow day with a coastal drive, wine tasting, lunch, swimming, and sunset watching is the perfect way for her to recharge.
Matthews' dedication to her craft is evident in her work ethic. She discovered through her writing journey that she enjoys hard work and treats deadlines as immovable. This discipline is reflected in her prolific output, with multiple pen names and a steady stream of engaging stories.
In her personal time, Matthews rewatches the 1980s Anne of Green Gables mini-series and re-reads the books, drawing inspiration from the classic tale's timeless themes and characters.
Recently, Matthews has recorded two new podcasts, continuing to expand her creative horizons. As she continues to captivate readers with her diverse and heartfelt stories, it's clear that Amy Matthews is a force to be reckoned with in the world of literature.
Amy Matthews, embracing various aspects of life in her personal time, rewatches the 1980s Anne of Green Gables mini-series for inspiration and re-reads the books, drawing from the classic tale's timeless themes and characters. Apart from her literary achievements, she also dabbles in the fashion-and-beauty world, as seen in her coastal drives and lunches in McLaren Vale, South Australia. In her home-and-garden sanctuary, she unwinds with a slow day, taking pleasure in activities like wine tasting, swimming, and sunset watching. As her students in relationships and travel through the journey of creative writing at Flinders University, they learn the value of hard work, discipline, and the joy of pursuing their passions just like their mentor.
