About Laurence Shelley

All of Laurence's writing journeys have taken him into unknown territory. His first book - Off-the-Wall Walking: A Different Kind of Journey - came to life after he foolishly bought boots the day before setting off on an 84-mile hike along Hadrian’s Wall Path. The blisters he soon developed were a blessing. They changed the whole character of the walk and the direction it took. Slowing down, noticing much more and seeking assistance, he was caught up in experiences that gave the walk and Roman history a new dimension, helping to earn the book a self-publishing award. 

His second book - On Chance Road: A Thumbprint of Britain - had just as impulsive a start, when he decided to hitchhike the length of Britain. Friends questioned his sanity when he chose to begin one day in November. It took 51 lifts over 16 days to say ‘I’ve done it!’ when he reached Dunnet Head, northernmost point of mainland Britain. Those who gave lifts and the stories they told are still with him. He was delighted when the book was shortlisted for a national publishing award.

His third book, and first novel - Visions of Wilderness: An Outcast’s Odyssey – began when his wife dreamt that he walked from South to North Devon. When he did so, remarkable encounters on Dartmoor convinced him there was a story to be told: of someone in search of a new life after the previous one fell apart. My research took unpredictable turns, such as  wild camping, squatting and surreal experiences at Goosey Fair, Tavistock. Having launched the novel earlier this year, he was very pleased to be selected as Author of the Month at the Red Cross Bookshop, Plympton.

With past lives as a copywriter, ceramics teacher and conservatory salesman, his new incarnation is as a student on an MA course in Fine Arts at the Arts University Plymouth. His latest writing project focuses on the life and afterlife dream of his great-uncle Percy Shelley, namesake of the poet and accomplished poet himself. His actions 130 years ago suggest the connection he made was more than just with this lifetime!

More details on his website.

Laurence Shelleys bibliography

Off-the-Wall Walking: A Different Kind of Journey (2007)

On Chance Road: A Thumbprint of Britain (2011)

Visions of Wilderness: An Outcast’s Odyssey (2023)