An author from Stratford St Mary has shared how women’s lives are portrayed by the media formed the inspiration for her fifth novel.

Lauren North, 39, is already the author of four psychological suspense novels. However, for her upcoming novel The Ugly Truth, she has been inspired by the public narrative of the lives of real women. 

“In 2021, there was a BBC Panorama documentary about the Dubai princess, Latifa,” explained Mrs North. 

East Anglian Daily Times: Mother-of-two, Lauren North, has chosen to explore the nature of fame in her fifth novel. Credit: Ross Dean PhotographyMother-of-two, Lauren North, has chosen to explore the nature of fame in her fifth novel. Credit: Ross Dean Photography (Image: Ross Dean Photography)

Latifa bint Mohammed Al Maktoum tried to flee her country in 2018. Her father, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is one of the richest heads of state in the world, the ruler of Dubai and vice-president of the United Arab Emirates. 

Last February, the United Nations tweeted a photograph of the Princess and that she was "living as she wishes" after sharing videos claiming her family holding her hostage.

“She was saying in secret videos that she was being held prisoner by her father, but he was saying, ‘No, she’s fine,” continued Mrs North. 

“It got under my skin, the concept that a powerful man can say one thing, and a woman can say another. 

“It triggered something in my imagination."

The Ugly Truth tells the story of Melanie Lang, the most famous celebrity in the UK – until she abruptly disappears from public life. 

East Anglian Daily Times: The Ugly Truth will be published on March 16. Credit: Lauren NorthThe Ugly Truth will be published on March 16. Credit: Lauren North (Image: Lauren North)

East Anglian Daily Times: Lauren North said that this novel will be different to her previous four novels, which are suspense, psychological thrillers. Credit: Lauren NorthLauren North said that this novel will be different to her previous four novels, which are suspense, psychological thrillers. Credit: Lauren North (Image: Lauren North)

When videos emerge of Lang revealing that she is being kept prisoner by her rich and powerful father, business tycoon Peter Lang. 

He, on the other hand, says that his daughter is being kept in a private mental health facility for her own safety. 

The story unfolds, told through the style of a Netflix documentary, with Melanie’s friends and ex-husband baring her story before the camera, as well as commentary from those on social media who are following events unfurl for the world to see. 

The Ugly Truth will be published by Transworld on March 16. To pre-order a copy, visit: www.linktr.ee/theuglytruthbook