Construction sector inspiration for author’s debut novel
Allyson has been wanting to write a book for many years but, like many authors, she was plagued by self-doubt.
Marina Beach resident Allyson Koekhoven recently launched her first book, Under Construction, which is a humorous novel set on the Lower South Coast.
Under Construction focuses on the main character, Adine du Toit, a larger-than-life woman in the male-dominated construction sector.
Balancing a demanding work schedule, post-graduate studies and community involvement, Adine is determined to let nothing stand in her way as she builds her career as a civil engineer.
The foundations of Adine’s carefully-engineered life are rocked when her new boss throws a spanner in the works. Will Adine climb the ladder to success or will her dreams come crashing to the ground?
Allyson said she has been wanting to write a book for many years but, like many authors, she was plagued by self-doubt.
“Add to that a fair amount of procrastination and an infinite supply of excuses, and it’s the perfect storm for not writing,” she said.
But, after attending two good courses on novel writing way back in 2009 and buying many books on good writing practice, she spent the next nine years brewing an idea for her debut novel, Under Construction.
So, what’s next for Allyson? She has just finished a short story titled ‘Love at First Site’, featuring the main character, Adine du Toit from Under Construction and started writing a Christmas story also featuring her.
“I’m working on a few plot ideas for a series of cosy mysteries which will star Adine du Toit, along with some of her fellow characters. Choosing a location for Under Construction was probably the simplest thing in the book-writing process,” she said.
Allyson has lived in KwaZulu-Natal for over 17 years, so basing the book on the province’s east coast was a no-brainer for her.
Port Sugarstone and Hibberpark, where most of the action in Under Construction takes place, are imaginary towns, but based on the towns of Port Shepstone and Hibberdene.
Readers can find out more about Allyson on her website: www.allysonkoekhoven-writes.com
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