In this interview we speak to alumnus and author E.S. David, who is releasing his debut novel – The Trials of Aqouril – a coming-of-age story that delivers heart and high stakes when a teen discovers hidden powers.

When she is suddenly transported to the enthralling world of Aqouril, sixteen-year-old Erica discovers an extraordinary ability to control water – an ancient power that marks her for something far greater than she ever imagined. To master her gift and uncover the secrets of Aqouril, Erica must face a series of harrowing trials that test her courage, strain her friendships, and push her to her limits.

Ewen, 31, who hails from Lanarkshire and graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Careers Guidance at UWS, has a passion for creative writing – particularly stories that explore magical realms, sweeping landscapes, and complex characters navigating moral ambiguity.

What inspired you to write and have you always wanted to be a writer?

The main inspiration for the book came from absorbing a range of fantasy stories over many years. I loved discussing these with my friends and critiquing any flaws I found with plot, characterisation etc.

In doing so though, it occurred to me how easy it is to criticise from the sidelines rather than doing it yourself, so I started coming up with a plan for a novel and it grew arms and legs from there!

Who are your literary influences?

In terms of the specific inspirations, I grew up reading crime thrillers and mysteries from authors like Harlan Coben and enjoying the twists and turns these stories offered.

The ones that stood out to me though were Harry Potter and A Song of Ice and Fire. The level of detail put into their fantasy worlds really grabbed my focus and motivated me to try and emulate these works.

How has your experience helped you to shape the story?

One of the biggest influences on my writing has been reading and learning about historical and cultural folklore. Growing up, I always enjoyed stories from Greek, Roman and Celtic mythology and some of their examples helped me to shape certain elements of The Trials of Aqouril. I also previously had spells living in both Stirling and Inverness; two places steeped in history and folklore and with beautiful landscapes to inspire ideas of sweeping magical worlds.

What challenges does your main character face, and what do they reveal about them?

At the heart of it, The Trials of Aqouril is a story of self-discovery, friendship and duty. The main character (Erica) is thrown into a magical world with strange creatures and dangers lurking in the shadows. To learn why she was brought to Aqouril, she must show determination, adaptability and wisdom to uncover the truth.

As a debut author, what was the biggest lesson you learned while writing this book?

The biggest lesson I learned was to put your work out there sooner rather than later. I know how hesitant I was to share my writing initially. However, it’s easy for writers to become blind to their own errors. I had a copy-edit completed on my first draft and the editor found over 1000 errors to correct! Putting yourself out there is scary, but it’s the only way you can grow and develop your writing skills.

What do you hope readers remember most after finishing the book?

Ultimately, I hope they find it an exciting and interesting read that makes them want to read the sequel! Specifically, I hope a lot of readers will connect with characters like Erica and be able to empathise with her decisions and her struggles.

When is the book out and where can we find out more?

I’m excited to say that The Trials of Aqouril is due for release on 28 November 2025.

Further information is available from The Book Guild, at: https://bookguild.co.uk/bookshop/young-adult/the-trials-of-aqouril

The Trials of Aqouril is dedicated to anyone who’s dreamed of writing a book that wasn’t sure they could – I doubted myself the whole way through. You can do it too.