Interview with Hazel Cushion – Xcite Books
Interview with Hazel Cushion founder of Xcite Books
Q. What was your childhood ambition?
When I was eleven, and used to my mother’s forty-miles-an-hour driving, it was to go 100mph on the M1. I have since achieved this!
Q. What ambitions do you still have?
To develop Xcite globally – this year we are going ‘Down Under’ with a new partnership in Australia and New Zealand and we are in talks for US distribution too.
Q. What was your first job?
I trained as a silversmith and after a stint in Hatton Garden I joined the QE2 and worked aboard cruise ships for several years.
Q. How did you end up running a book publisher?
After I turned 40 I did an MA in Creative Writing and as part of the course we produced an anthology of our work. I loved making that book and quickly realised I wanted to be a publisher rather than a writer. I started Accent Press in my front bedroom in 2003 and sold our first book into W H Smith’s top 300 stores over the ‘phone. The company grew rapidly and in 2007 I developed the Xcite imprint. Our first Xcite book was published on 14th February 2007 which happened to be the same day I was invited to Buckingham Palace to meet the Queen! By coincidence Jacqueline Gold from Ann Summers was also a guest.
Q. What does your working day typically consist of?
I’m normally at my desk by seven in the morning but take a break at three o’clock to walk the dogs. We have three Xcite editors so I spend time liaising with them. I also commission the covers, organise advertising and maintain our websites.
Q. And what aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?
I like making people feel good about themselves and their sexuality. I love the fact that many sex therapists recommend our books to help couples explores new ideas and develop their sexual repertoire. We’ve had really good feedback on our Ultimate Curves range that celebrates full-figured fabulousness because it helps curvy women feel good about their bodies.
Q. How do people who don’t know you react when you tell them about your role at Xcite Books?
I haven’t had any negative feedback. All our books feature consensual, positive sexual experiences and I proudly promote them. Talking about the range has certainly livened up a few dinner party conversations and people are always curious about the shows I attend to promote them!
Q. What do you think is your best attribute?
I’m ridiculously positive and my enthusiasm wears off on people.
Q. What’s the best thing that has happened to you in the last 12 months?
Getting our books into Ann Summers as they offer the perfect outlet for them.
Q. Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us?
I’d still feel too shy to go into a sex shop and buy anything (but the internet’s great!)
Q. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Don’t look back.
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