On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Tony Kelly discusses his journey of overcoming a 30-year addiction and finding redemption through his autobiography, My Redemption, which aims to inspire and educate others about gambling awareness.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Tony Kelly about his life and career, the experiences that inspired him to write his memoir, My Redemption, and his creative process.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
I am an ex-professional footballer from Coventry, England, and I am also a former gambling addict who lost over £500.000 throughout my professional football career, and my life. My addiction spanned 30 years, and I lost everything, including my 3 houses and my partner of 20 years. I am now a published author and founder/CEO of Red Card Gambling Support Project, a company dedicated to promoting gambling awareness and education for all.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
I first thought about writing a book back in 2012, after a discussion with my sister, mainly about other footballers struggling with gambling addiction.
When did you take a step to start writing?
In 2012, I took my first step to writing my autobiography and started with one chapter, before I decided I was going to write a full book manuscript.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
It took me a full 18 months, from pen to paper to publication date.
How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?
My latest book is a continuation from book 1, except it has extra chapters in [3 extra], and more images and quotes. It also has a new design and takes us up to the present day [2025]. It took 6 months in total, from deciding it will be my last book, to publication.
Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write My Redemption?
The reason I wanted to write the final book was to add closure to my GAMBLING ADDICTION JOURNEY, and although anyone can have a relapse, I just felt now is the time I can finally genuinely say- I BEAT MY DEMONS. I also wanted to bring my story up to the present day, and to show the readers that I have come full circle and that I have redeemed myself, culminating in where I am today.
What were your biggest challenges with writing My Redemption?
To remember all the things I have done in the last 4/5 years, as I have done a lot and been very busy, it was making sure I could showcase some of my prouder moments.
What was your research process for My Redemption?
My research process was to find more images of the last 10 years or so, and to collate data and information around the work I am doing at Red Card and ensure all matched up with certain images.
How did you plan the structure of My Redemption?
The structure of the book was already in place, it was just a matter of letting the story flow, from 20120 to 2025 being critical, ensuring it was easy for readers to follow. I also wanted to have images in the correct place, and the foreword in the correct place, that was important.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did My Redemption need?
Yes, Parker Publishers were in charge of editing, so they helped a lot in that sense.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a book?
Be real and be authentic.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
I am not planning to write any further books – My Redemption says it all!
And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
I am extremely proud of my accomplishment, and more importantly, my family and daughter are so proud of what I have achieved, and that means a lot to me, so it was definitely worth all that effort.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3QDMHoV
Kindle: https://amzn.to/40Xt0wQ
Paperback: https://amzn.to/42Zx4zh
Hardcover: https://amzn.to/41jVlxN
My Book – My Redemption: https://redcardgambling.org/my-redemption
Website: https://redcardgambling.org
JustGiving: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/redcardgamblingsupport
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RedCardGamblingSupport
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/red-card-gambling
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redcardgambling
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@redcardsupport
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwSjk4__D1n8vn5kk1jf9_w/videos
We strive to keep The Table Read free for both our readers and our contributors. If you have enjoyed our work, please consider donating to help keep The Table Read going!
Excelldnt web siite yoou hav here.. It’s hasrd to ind
quality writing likke yours thee days. I honestly appreciate individuals lie you!
Taake care!!
I was rescommended this wweb site by way oof mmy cousin.
I’m nnot sure whether this postt iss written viia him ass nno onee else recogise ssuch disstinct approximately mmy trouble.
Youu are wonderful! Thanks!
cyqdwm