Actor Joey Batey, known for his role in ‘The Witcher’, has revealed his talent in yet another field – novel writing. In an exclusive feature, Batey discusses his debut novel ‘It’s Not a Cult’ and the journey towards its publication. The book, a unique blend of death metal, cults, and comedy, showcases Batey’s storytelling prowess, a skill he has honed since his teenage years. Despite gaining recognition for his acting and music, writing has always held a special place in Batey’s heart.
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Batey reflects on his writing journey, sharing that ‘It’s Not a Cult’ is actually his eighth or ninth book, but the first to be published. He acknowledges the challenges of finding the right story and developing his craft over the years. Grateful for the opportunity to work with Bloomsbury and Raven Books, Batey describes his novel as not fitting into a specific genre, making it a unique and intriguing addition to the literary world.

The plot of ‘It’s Not a Cult’ centres around an unnamed band whose obscure songs about mythical northern gods propel them to sudden fame after a violent incident at one of their performances goes viral. As the band garners a devoted following, they grapple with the unintended consequences of their newfound popularity. Batey reveals that the idea for the novel originated during his teenage years, but it was only recently that he felt ready to bring the story to life.
Despite his success as an actor and musician, Batey emphasizes the importance of letting go once a creative project is completed and released to the world. He acknowledges that the novel’s audience may be surprised by his foray into writing, a passion that has been a significant part of his life for years. Batey compares his creative pursuits to a cycle, where each form of expression offers a unique outlet for his artistic energy.
Touching on the support system that has aided him in his creative endeavours, Batey credits his loved ones for their encouragement. He finds solace in moments of introspection and cherishes the process of bringing his creative visions to fruition. As ‘It’s Not a Cult’ becomes available to readers, Batey hopes to connect with audiences who appreciate the multifaceted nature of artistic expression.
For fans eagerly anticipating the return of ‘The Witcher’, Batey’s venture into novel writing offers a new dimension to his artistic repertoire. The actor’s ability to seamlessly transition between mediums underscores his versatile talent and dedication to storytelling. ‘It’s Not a Cult’ serves as a testament to Batey’s creative vision and the culmination of years of writing experience.
As Joey Batey’s novel gains traction in the literary sphere, readers are invited to delve into a narrative that promises a unique blend of genres and themes. Batey’s passion for storytelling shines through in ‘It’s Not a Cult’, offering a fresh perspective on fame, creativity, and the unpredictable trajectory of artistic pursuits. With this debut novel, Batey establishes himself as a multifaceted artist with a compelling voice that resonates with audiences across different creative landscapes.
