Author Ruth Estevez to talk about her latest book Jiddy Vardy

Inspired by a real female smuggler, Jiddy Vardy is set in the Robin Hood’s Bay of the 1700s. It follows the story of a teenage girl and her embroilment in the smuggling trade in North Yorkshire.

Ruth, who grew up in Hawksworth, has already carved out a successful career as a screenwriter for the BBC, and has also worked for Opera North and Emmerdale. Jiddy Vardy is her first young adult novel and is published by new northern independent publishing house ZunTold

Founder and managing director Elaine Bousfield said: “I’m very proud to have launched Jiddy Vardy as ZunTold’s second publication. Ruth is an extremely talented writer, with a unique style that has been hugely popular in the young adult market. Here at ZunTold we’re passionate about diverse voices – and Jiddy’s is one-of-a-kind.”

Ruth will talk about her novel, speaking about how she used local history to inspire her writing. She will also hold a reading and offer prizes.

The event will be held on the afternoon of Saturday, December 8 at the Smugglers Bistro, The Dock, Robin Hood’s Bay YO22 4SJ. The event is free, and Ruth will be holding half-hour talks on the hour, at 11am, 12pm and 1pm.

Bradford-born Ruth said: “Jiddy Vardy is inspired by trips to Robin Hood’s Bay and wandering around the little ginnels and passageways of the coastal fishing village.

“The book was also inspired by a few pages in a local book on smuggling called A Rum Do! by Patricia Labistour.

“She mentioned a female smuggler who wasn’t from The Bay but who was an outsider and had dark hair and looks. Jiddy became a loyal Baytowner and gained the respect of the paler skinned locals.

“When I read this, I thought, I have to write about this person.

“I am very interested in the theme of belonging as well and finding our place, so Jiddy gave me the opportunity to explore this theme.”

Ruth, who now lives in Manchester, has previously published novels Meeting Coty and Erosion.