Writing, Award Ceremonies and Comfort Zones

Sometimes I can be a bit slow on the uptake… No, I hear you cry, not you – you’re the epitome of quick-wittedness. Nothing gets past your razor-sharp brain… Well, sorry to disillusion you, my lovely reader, but sometimes I totally allow things to slip the net. I’ve never been one to stand in theContinue reading “Writing, Award Ceremonies and Comfort Zones”

Staying in with RNA Joan Hessayon Contender Laura R Leeson

Originally posted on Linda's Book Bag:
Having been a recipient of a Romantic Novelists Association Media Star award in the past, I’m delighted to feature contenders for this year’s Joan Hessayon Award here on Linda’s Book Bag. Today I’m delighted to welcome Laura R. Leeson to stay in with me to chat about The…

Hello! It’s Been A While

It’s been a while – but I fully believe there’s no point in blogging for the sake of it. That it’s worth waiting until there’s something to say. And today I have – got something to say, that is. Because last night it happened… For the first time since I signed a publishing contract inContinue reading “Hello! It’s Been A While”

How Hard Can It Be?

I remember thinking this when I decided to write a novel. It was about five years ago, I had a block of a few hours every afternoon to myself and I’d always fancied having a go at writing a book. As it turns out, my naivety knew no bounds… But we only know what weContinue reading “How Hard Can It Be?”

Responsible Self-Publishing

I got ‘book mail’ today, and I am excited – a couple of books have arrived which I can’t wait to get stuck into. Both are self-published. Both look awesome. I read a wide variety of genres, styles, and authors. I love everything from Jane Austen to Terry Pratchett, via Elly Griffiths, Mick Herron andContinue reading “Responsible Self-Publishing”

Austen in Lockdown

A while ago, I entered a short story competition – the inspiration being Jane Austen’s 465 word short entitled ‘The Beautifull Cassandra’. I didn’t win – boo, hiss – but that means I get to put it on my blog instead… 🙂 I hope you enjoy it: ‘ Mrs Reynolds bustled in, placing the day’sContinue reading “Austen in Lockdown”

The Case of the Mysterious Disappearing Blog

During lockdown my focus has been hard to maintain. My mind flits off in all directions, making creating anything meaningful a challenge. The writing of blogs completely disappeared from my mental ‘to do’ list. I mean, everyone’s got enough on their plates, right now, without me wittering on as well… But the other day IContinue reading “The Case of the Mysterious Disappearing Blog”

How you know when you’ve hit middle age…

We have just enjoyed a very family-orientated Christmas – the format is one day with his family, the other with mine, in an uber-fair yearly rotation. And luckily we all get on well enough for the days to proceed without the need to spill anyone’s blood. This year, however, was the first time I trulyContinue reading “How you know when you’ve hit middle age…”