Fabulous time at the book launch for Not What It Seems

I already know that I have the best family and friends in the world and to prove it they turned up in their droves on Friday 2nd August 2013 for the launch of Not What It Seems. Waterstones and Hale will be pleased with the book sales, I was just really happy to see so many friendly faces!

Really enjoyed being interviewed by Katie Martin on Solent Radio just before the book launch. If ever a person was in the right job, it's Katie. She's bright, funny and makes you feel right at home. Should have been interviewed by Echo reporter Jenny Awford today but she had to postpone until Monday. However, the photographer did turn up, so cleaning the house from top to bottom wasn't wasted - and perhaps the dust won't have settled again by Monday! On Tuesday 13th August I'm being interviewed by Geoff Carter on Fire FM 107.6 and on Thursday 22nd August I'm being interviewed on Forest FM. So a busy couple of weeks ahead - but I must try to fit some writing in somewhere.

Exciting Times!

Today the complimentary copies of my new novel, Not What It Seems, arrived from my publisher, Robert Hale Ltd. The cover is bright yellow and very eye-catching so it should stand out on the book shelf and encourage readers to pick it up.

The launch is only a week away now. In fact by this time next week it will be all over.

If you live in Dorset it's all happening at Waterstones in Poole on Friday 2 August at 6pm.

I've accomplished the important bit, which was to buy a new dress for the occasion and the lovely Dee at Waterstones has ordered the books - which is even more important obviously!

Meanwhile, I have an interview slot on Solent Radio with the gorgeous Katie Martin at 3.30pm  on Tuesday 30 July, I'll be meeting Faith Eckersall from the Echo on Friday 9 August, and have an interview slot on Forest FM at 2.20 on Thursday 22 August. I'm not a big name - yet! - so I really appreciate these opportunities because the whole point of writing novels is for people to read them - and they won't do that if they don't get to hear about them!

Busy at everything but blogging!!

You must be able to tell that I'm not a blogger by nature - but I do admire those who are naturals and find the time!

Currently I'm brewing up to send out books to readers as the brand new RoNA Organiser for the Romantic Novelists' Association (RNA) with my Deputy, Nora Fountain.

Also regularly giving talks for the Dorset WI and having a great time meeting the lovely members. Likewise with local libraries where it's a joy to meet some of my own readers.

The new novel, Not What It Seems (my 10th) is due out at the end of July with the launch at Waterstones in Poole on 2nd August at 6pm.

Another novel It's In The Cards is already written and the next Not My Affair is now underway and would be even further along if the sun didn't keep tempting me outside!

Dunford Writers' Day

Dunford Writers' Day tomorrow with some top notch authors - I'll just creep in and sit at the back!!  A brilliant day for feedback on your latest literary offering. Critique of the most encouraging kind is what every writer needs. I can't wait!! 

How to …write your first novel with well-known local authors Pam Fudge and Della Galton

Saturday 25 May

How to …write your first novel with well-known  local authors Pam Fudge and Della Galton

Westbourne Library, Alum Chine Road BH4 8DX

10am to 4pm

£30

If you’re thinking of writing a novel, or are partway through one, then this workshop is for you.  If you want to know why some novels sell and why some don’t, then this workshop is also for you.  Novelists, Pam Fudge and Della Galton, will take you through the basics – how to attract an agent or publisher’s attention, how to write that all important first page, and how to keep yourself motivated throughout the writing process.  Both experienced tutors, they will answer any questions you have, and their mission is to have you leaving the session inspired.

To book please call 01202 454844 or visit any Bournemouth library.

What a week!

Gave a talk to Dorset Writers in Wareham on Monday (20th) and what a great bunch they were. I had a great time! Judging the 'Open Mic' Story Slam at Upton Library on Thursday evening with Dr Jim Pope - following the interview on Hot Radio with Geoff Carter earlier in the day (arranged by Liz Gordon of Brilliant Fish For Writers) and - last but not least - there's Saturday's How To Write Your First Novel workshop with Della Galton as part of Bournemouth Festival of Words. Now, what was I saying about a quiet life? It's not happening, but I'm finding that a busy life is actually GREAT! 

The editing begins!

It's been a great week for networking. Monday was RNA regional lunch in Southampton - so lots of news and views there.

Wednesday I was talking to the WI at Winterbourne Kingston and what a lovely attentive audience they were. I met Helen Summer, author of Running Crazy, and Liz Gordon, marketing expert of Brilliant Fish for Writers on Thursday after their very professional interview on Solent Radio.  

Finally! Today has been a day to get cracking on the editing of the new book and I'm now up to chapter 5. Love a bit of polishing after the hard work of writing the book in the first place is done. (Pity I'm not as fond of polishing the furniture!!!!!!!!!) :D