OBI WAN FOR ME

by anon
(UK)

A mum-of-two found the woo-key to success after penning a critically-acclaimed sci-fi novel - with the help of Star Wars legend Dave Prowse.

Housewife Rachael Kirby, 38, brought a galaxy far, far away a little closer to home with her debut work, 'Black Gemini'.

The novel - based ''loosely'' on the Star Wars series - is set in a fictional world and follows the lives of General Viper and his lieutenant, Jess.

Since its re-release earlier this month, the 144-page book - the first of a planned trilogy - has won the hearts of readers and critics alike.

But that comes as no surprise given the pedigree of Rachael's ''literary consultant'' and family friend - the 'godfather' of science fiction.

Prowse, who played the original Darth Vader, offered ''tips, advice and general assistance'' throughout the 13-YEAR writing process, free-of-charge.

According to Rachael, who lives in Solihull, Birmingham, his help was ''absolutely invaluable''.

She said: ''Dave and I have been friends for many years, so he was an obvious point of call when I began writing Black Gemini.

''I discussed all aspects of the book, from its plot to its characters, and he was absolutely invaluable thereafter.

''He did everything free-of-charge, but acted, essentially, as my literary consultant.''

Rachael began writing Black Gemini in 1997 shortly after giving birth to her first son, Daniel.

With a ''deep-rooted'' love of sci-fi, she based her book on George Lucas' 1970s hit series.

She spent the next eight years drafting the story - which is written with a female audience in mind - and the following five years putting in the ''finishing touches''.

But her efforts were made easier thanks to the experience of Prowse, a family friend since the early 1990s.

Rachael, who lives with husband Neil and their second son Ben, 11, said: ''I've had a team of amazing - and patient - people around me, and I'll always be grateful for all they've done to help me.''

She is already penning a sequel, and has plans for the third.

''I haven't asked Dave for his help yet - but I will,'' she added.

Black Gemini is out now priced £7.99 from amazon.co.uk or visit rachaelkirby.co.uk

ENDS