Fantasy author Ray Star, from Harlow, signs copies of debut novel Earthlings: The Beginning at Waterstones in Bishop's Stortford

A fantasy author with a passion for animal rights and eco living signed copies of her debut novel inspired by her father at Waterstones in Bishop's Stortford.

Ray Star, from Harlow, also gave a talk and held a Q&A as she spread the word about Earthlings: The Beginning at the South Street bookshop yesterday (Thursday March 17).

Earthlings was conceived from Star's love for animals and the environment and inspired by her father, whose passing was a catalyst in leading a greener lifestyle. Star's dream is to one day open an animal sanctuary and wildlife reserve in memory of her father.

Star is a member of the Climate Fiction Writers League and endeavours to be a climate-neutral author. Earthlings is printed on recycled paper where possible and one tree is planted for every copy sold.

Described by the store's bookseller Laura as "a coming-of-age novel set in a world turned upside-down, a magickal read and an absolute joy to read", the book is the first in a trilogy by the mother of two.

Peridot has lived a sheltered life, the ways of the world remain a mystery, until the arrival of a young boy Euan, and she finally learns the truth.

Peridot and her family are magick-born. Not magic from stories and fables, but real magick from the days of old.

Leaving the safety of her home, Peridot discovers a world unlike any she could have fathomed possible.

Earthlings: The Beginning, published by Chronos Publishing, is out now.