James D.

Freelance health and fitness writer

As an independent writer, I have achieved international recognition. I was shortlisted for the competitive Somerset Maugham award -previously won by writers such as Kingsley and Martin Amis- for my debut novel The unrivalled transcendence of Willem J. Gyle (Thistle, 2017.) As a playwright, I have been enlisted by leading academics at the University of Edinburgh to find engaging ways in which to present complex ideas on stage. The play that resulted was performed at the Edinburgh Science Festival, funded with generous grants from the Leverhulme Trust and Edinburgh University themselves. In addition, I have published several poems and poetry collections, the most recent being The Late Blackberries (2019, Ink, Sweat & Tears.) As a freelance writer, I have edited several novels and poetry collections for various clients, alongside writing blog posts and articles on a wide range of topics, including politics, health and fitness, and consumer information, amongst others. My academic qualifications include a BA (Hons) in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, and an MA in Philosophy, both of which provide me with invaluable research and communication skills across several areas. Education • MA Philosophy, Politics & Economics, Upper Second Class | Open University, 2021 • BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics & Economics, Upper Second Class | Open University, 2019 • REPs level 3 certificate in Personal Training | Fitness Industry Education, 2012 • REPs level 2 certificate in Gym Instruction | Fitness Industry Education, 2012 • Advanced diploma in Martial Arts Instruction | MAAS, 2009 • 4 A levels, grades A-B | Hayes Sixth Form College, 2008 • 12 GCSEs, grades A*-B | Hayes School, 2006 Employment History • Freelance writer, since 2014 • Freelance personal trainer and nutrition consultant, since 2013 • Self defence consultant, GKR Karate, 2012-13 • Manager and head coach, Xin Fa Kung Fu and Kickboxing School, 2010-2013 Skills • Able to create clear, well-crafted prose (one published novel, shortlisted for the Somerset Maugham Award 2018; one award winning play performed; top rated on Upwork); • Able to work to strict deadlines as both content creator and/or editor, with well-established research and editorial skills; • Able to think creatively (as evidenced by my literary endeavours, alongside the narrative nonfiction style that has become a hallmark of my blogging style), delivering complex ideas in an engaging, creative style; • Able to work with diverse groups and individuals, helping them to build self-confidence and think creatively about their own lives and environments. Awards and Publications The Billow Maiden • Guppy Open Awards MG • Scotsman Book of the Month August 2022 The unrivalled transcendence of Willem J. Gyle, Thistle Books, 2017: • Somerset Maugham Award (2018) by the Society of Authors- shortlist; • Top Ten Books of 2017 (2017) by TT Book Reviews- (joint) winner; • Thriller of the Year (2017) by RBRT Book Reviews- winner; • Book of the Year (2017) by Rosie Amber Word Press- winner. My Turn, for stage, performed at the 2019 Edinburgh Science Festival: • Grants by Leverhulme Trust and Edinburgh University, (2017-18)