Hiya! 

Today I have the pleasure of joining in with Sue Bentley’s #WeOther blog tour 🙂

With thanks as always to Rachel @ Rachel’s Random Resources.

Interview with Sue Bentley…..

About myself and my books? I began by writing for adults – most of those early books are out of print. I’ve also written for existing children’s series under a number of pen names. My own magical animal series, under my own name, still sells around the world. I’m currently writing for YA/Adults. We Other is the first in a new direction – it’s part thriller, part para-normal romance – with pitch-dark fairies you wouldn’t want to meet while walking alone at night.

My ideas? They come from all around, from everyday experience, things I hear or read or people tell me. I’m influenced by books, Art, Film, TV, talking to friends and generally keeping my eyes and ears open. I always have a notebook with me to jot down stray thoughts and scraps of dialogue. I ask myself lots of questions and try to come up with unusual answers.

My characters? Are compilations of everyone I know, have ever met, or encountered in any medium over my lifetime. I like to give them interesting ambitions, interests, hang-ups, problems – so I enjoy writing about them. They’ll be with for a long time, certainly for months, perhaps years while they’re journeying through my books. I suppose there’s a little bit of me in every one of them – although I’m not always aware of it until someone points it out. I’m not telling you which bits. You can judge for yourself!

Characters names? Sometimes just pop into my head. Other times I work hard to find the right one. It’s important that they feel right. I check for names online, or if my eyes need a rest, I’ll skim down lists of actors in TV and Film mags. If I hear a lovely name, I’ll make a note of it for later use.

My writing process in a nutshell? Get up, quick wash, dress – or put fleece over PJs, stick my feet into slipper-boots and put the kettle on. Take tea to my desktop, work on WIP in the morning, try to avoid social media. After lunch, answer emails, go for a walk or to a café (with book and notebook) Evening social media, writing business or TV, socialise with friends. Read in bed. It doesn’t always work out like that.

My top 5 favourite authors? There are so many, but here goes. Frances Hardinge, Holly Black, Philip Pullman, Hannah Kent, Susan Cooper.

If I could meet any author? It would be Susan Cooper. I took part in a Twitter Readathon of ‘The Dark is Rising’ over Midwinter 2017 to New Year. It was perfect for how I was feeling as I love winter and snow, but the Christmas commerce-fest? Not so much. I’d love to talk to Susan about this book, as I feel we have a lot of interests in common.

Was I a big reader as a child? Absolutely! And then some. I never had my head out of a book. I worked my way through the entire children’s section of the public library. Fabulous.

When did I start to write? Not until my own children started school. Before that I was growing up, living life, incubating my talents, while exploring good fiction. Reading is the best apprenticeship for any budding writer.

Re-writing the ending to any book? It’s never occurred to me to want to do that. The ending is whatever the writer intended and I’m happy with that – even if it leaves me feeling sad or disappointed, that’s fine. Life’s full of ups and downs.

Any book I wish I’d written? Oh yes lots. Every time I read a page of beautiful prose or an insightful, well-observed chapter, I wish I’d written it. But I really believe that you can only write the book that’s within you, not focus on passing trends or try to be like anyone else. We all have our own voice, which is as valid as anyone else’s.

The title of my autobiography? If ever I write one? ‘Burrowings of a Bookworm.’ Or maybe ‘A Life in Words’. I’d have to give it a lot more thought.

Inviting a fictional character for coffee? I’d take Lyra and her daemon Pantalaimon, disguised as a moth, to Starbucks. She’d have a milkshake and we’d talk about her adventures and I’d be very jealous that I didn’t have a daemon of my own to accompany me. If I had one – it would be a grey cat with orange eyes.

What I’m working on right now? I’ve just delivered Second Skin to my agent. It’s been 3 years in the writing and is another para-normal romance/thriller and quite dark in places. Second Skin asks, what is the shape of love? Aledra is a Drakkoni, a conquering race of twoskins, people able to transform into winged beasts. Jubal is a Native Esran, who hates the Drakkoni for slaughtering his people. The book explores what happens when two races collide and gets quite dark in places.

Do I have a release date? Not yet – Second Skin is doing the rounds of publishers. While I’m waiting for it to be placed, I’ve begun writing Scar You – a sequel to We Other, which can also be read as a stand-alone. We meet many characters from We Other, and continue with some of their stories. I’m also introducing some strong new characters, too. Very excited about these!

How do I celebrate publication day? Well I might dance around the kitchen grinning inanely and whooping, while hugging a copy of my book. I might go out to lunch with writing friends or my agent. I might have a book launch/signing in my local Waterstones. I’ll probably announce how delighted I am and post pics on all my social media. Then I might have a special meal and eat too much chocolate.

How can readers keep in touch with me? I’m working on that one. My website needs a major update and I intend to add a blog and a facility for people to leave their details. Until then, readers can ‘like’ my author page on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram – just click on the links provided. I love interacting with readers and I’m always grateful when someone who enjoys my books takes the time to write a review.

Thanks very much for hosting me on the We Other blog tour, and for the interesting questions.

Thanks so much for taking the time to answer my questions, Sue 🙂

We Other

Family secrets, changelings, and fairies you never want to meet on a dark night.

Jess Morgan’s life has always been chaotic. When a startling new reality cannot be denied, it’s clear that everything she believed about herself is a lie. She is linked to a world where humans – ‘hot-bloods’ – are disposable entertainment. Life on a run-down estate – her single mum’s alcoholism and violent boyfriend – become the least of Jess’s worries.

Purchase from Amazon UK –

https://www.amazon.co.uk/We-Other-Sue-Bentley-ebook/dp/B07D19PRGL/

Purchase from Amazon.com –

https://www.amazon.com/We-Other-Sue-Bentley-ebook/dp/B07D19PRGL/

Author Bio –

Sue Bentley discovered a love of books at an early age. She worked for Northamptonshire Libraries for many years, while teaching herself the craft of writing. She is the author of the worldwide bestselling Magic Kitten, Magic Puppy, Magic Ponies, Magic Bunny series for age 5-9 years. She also writes for children and adults under various pen names. A lover of English Folklore, her books often contain elements of the otherworld and the darkness within the everyday. Her books have been translated into around 20 languages. We Other is her first book for Young Adults.

Social Media Links –

https://twitter.com/suebentleywords

https://facebook.com/suebentleyauthor

https://instagram.com/therealsuebentley

https://www.suebentley.co.uk

https://Goodreads.com/suebentleyauthor

Giveaway –

Win a signed copy of We Other and a personal letter (open internationally)

*Terms and Conditions –Worldwide entries welcome. Please enter using the Rafflecopter link below. The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then I reserve the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over. Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time I will delete the data. I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

Follow the rest of the blog tour for reviews, and more, with these awesome book bloggers…..

Enjoy!

Hi all! Today I have the pleasure of joining in with Anne Allen’s blog tour for The Guernsey Novels.

Anne’s Annual Pilgrimage to Guernsey for Liberation Day

Thousands of islanders, ex-pats, and tourists celebrate the Channel Islands freedom from German Occupation during WWII every year on 9 May. This year, it was the 73rd anniversary of Liberation Day, when the German High Command surrendered after five dark years of occupying British land.

Author Anne Allen made her annual pilgrimage to the island and joined in with the festivities, which had an even larger attendance this year, due to the recent release of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society movie.

“I always look forward to returning to Guernsey,” says Anne. “I absolutely love the island, especially its beautiful beaches and wonderful people.”

“On Liberation Day, I celebrated the island’s freedom with my family, friends, and all the islanders.”

Whilst Anne currently resides in Devon, she lived in Guernsey for over fourteen years. She decided to move to the island after enjoying an amazing holiday on the beautiful island. Her love of the island was so strong, she wrote the book series, The Guernsey Novels, as an ode to the island she dearly loves.

“Whilst I conducted research for The Guernsey Novels, I steeped myself into the island’s history, especially its Occupation and eventual Liberation.”

“I was kindly donated a couple of diaries kept by islanders who lived during that time period and it provided me with a very realistic account of what everyday life was like.”

“Food was scarce, tensions were high – it was a dark time for the Channel Islands.”

Anne is a keen amateur historian and has spent years researching the island’s history. In addition to the donated diaries, she was also able to interview some islanders who lived through the German rule and attended the original Liberation Day.

“After five years of hell, I can imagine how much relief the Guerns must have felt when it was announced in the Evening Press that Hitler was dead,” says Anne. “I personally would have been dancing for joy.”

“Excitement would have spread quickly, especially when the SS Vega arrived with supplies. Imagine, being starved for years and finally being able to get biscuits, chocolate, tea, and coffee – that first taste of freedom food would have been heaven,” says Anne.

On Tuesday 8 May 1945 peace was declared, the German high command had surrendered and Victory in Europe (VE) Day was announced. The islanders were informed that they would be liberated the following day, 9 May.

“Thousands of Guerns would have found a way to travel to St Peter Port as early in the morning as possible in order to take part in what was bound to be the biggest celebration of their lifetime,” says Anne.

“Can you imagine what it was like? After five years wondering if you would ever be free, to finally see British troops arriving to liberate you – it must have been absolutely glorious.”

On the morning of 9 May, British troops arrived in the famous HMS Bulldog, which was a B-class destroyer built for the Royal Navy. The troops arrived at White Rock in St Peter Port, then marched down North Esplanade towards the Royal Hotel, which the Germans used as their headquarters.

“They must have made themselves hoarse with all their cheering and happy screams. Local women mobbed the Tommies and tried to get hugs and kisses from the men liberating them. Soldiers handed out small gifts of chocolates and cigarettes and the islanders welcomed them with all their hearts. I get tears in my eyes thinking about the emotions of Liberation Day,” says Anne.

Whilst Anne lived on the island she religiously joined in the Liberation Day celebrations and has paid homage to the island’s liberation in her book series, The Guernsey Novels.

“In my fifth novel Echoes of Time, I used the donated diaries and my interviews of local people to detail how the protagonist would have felt and celebrated Liberation Day. I put myself in their position and used my own emotions too, to convey the sheer joy of liberation,” says Anne.

Anne’s novels have been well received by people from the Channel Islands including fellow author Lara Dearman, who states that she “loves Anne Allen’s Guernsey Novels.” (https://twitter.com/laradearman/status/987343962838130688).

Many islanders have read Anne Allen’s novels and applauded her on her authenticity, stating

“As I live in Guernsey I was able to identify with all the place names etc. It was a gripping story.” says Amazon reviewer Gina, about Dangerous Waters (https://goo.gl/SgZfGh)

“Fabulous story. As I live in Guernsey I could really relate to the story. Read it twice.” (https://goo.gl/7RQQjy)

“I really enjoyed this book, having lived in Guernsey myself, it was very informative about the island and helped me visualise where Jeanne (the protagonist) was throughout the story.” (https://goo.gl/pAbxDf)

“I have worked really hard to make my novels authentic and to showcase to people what a beautiful island Guernsey is,” says Anne. “Some readers have gone on to visit Guernsey for the first-time after reading my novels and have returned time and time again.”

“Many of my readers have also been urging me to have my novels turned into a TV series,” says Anne. “Even Guernsey writer Pippa McCathie commented during a recent BBC Radio Guernsey interview that my style “would work really well transferred to screen.” (https://anneallen.co.uk/bbc-radio-guernsey-potato-peel-pie)

Anne’s visit to Guernsey this year was a mix of business and pleasure. In addition to joining in the Liberation Day festivities, visiting friends and family – she also met with all of the partners for the exciting prize draw to win a holiday to Guernsey.

Pictured below is Anne with Genevieve Langford from Hotel Ziggurat.

Anne Allen’s Amazon Author Page

Click here to enter…..

The Guernsey Novels Prize Draw

Good luck!

Follow the rest of the blog tour for reviews, and more, with these awesome book bloggers…..

About the author…..

Anne was born in Rugby to a Welsh father and an English mother. As a result, she spent many summers with her Welsh grandparents in Anglesey and learned to love the sea. Now she is based in Devon to be near her daughter and two small grandchildren. Her restless spirit has meant many moves, the longest stay being in Guernsey for nearly fourteen years after falling in love with the island and the people. She contrived to leave one son behind to ensure a valid reason for frequent returns. Her younger son is based in London – ideal for city breaks ☺

By profession, Anne was a psychotherapist who long had a desire to write and Dangerous Waters, her first novel, was published in 2012. It was awarded Silver(Adult Fiction) in TheWishingShelfAwards 2012. Since then she has published three more books in The Guernsey Novels series; Finding Mother, Guernsey Retreat, The Family Divided, and Echoes of Time; winner of The Diamond Book Award 2017, a finalist in Readersfavorite awards and granted a ChillWithABookAward. Book 6, The Betrayal, was published October 2017.
To find out more about Anne visit her website – http://www.anneallen.co.uk
You can also find her on Twitter – @AnneAllen21

My review…..

Wow, what a compelling story!

This is the first book I’ve read by Carla Kovach, but it certainly won’t be my last and I’m so glad this is the start of a new series. If you enjoy a good crime thriller/police procedural you will love this as much as I did.

Deborah Jenkins disappeared, without a trace, four years ago. All she left behind was a shoe, but very little other evidence and over time her case had gone cold. Her husband, Luke, has never stopped loving her, but is just about giving up hope of her ever returning and is starting to move on with his life although he is battling with his guilt. Did Deborah leave them all willingly all that time ago? He couldn’t believe that she would leave the two children she adored, but he has no idea what to believe any more. Luke is just the sweetest character. I warmed to him immediately. I can’t even begin to imagine how anyone would cope with what he’s been through and continues to go through. I was really, really hoping he would get his happy ending.

DI Gina Harte finds herself investigating the case of an abandoned baby when an anonymous call leads them to checking the DNA of the baby girl. She is a match to Deborah Jenkins. Deborah is alive, but where and what’s been happening to her for the last four years? They need to find her and fast.

This is an excellent police procedural, which builds in tension and suspense, but seriously picks up pace towards the end. Honestly, my heart was beating so fast! Gina and her team were racing against time and I was praying for a happy ending. I hardly dared to carry on reading at times, but I was desperate to find out the truth.

Gina is a very likeable character. She’s a professional and dedicated officer, but also very human. She’s had a difficult past and has a strained relationship with her daughter as a result. I loved that we saw this side of her.

I really felt for Deborah. How anyone copes with being held captive by another person for all that time, let alone being separated from her new born baby, God only knows. Her strength of character is astounding.

Although this is very much plot driven, the characters are obviously of great importance to the author and are written with a great deal of compassion. I loved it!

I can’t wait for book two. I’ve pre-ordered and have also added Carla’s other books to my TBR list.

Many thanks to Carla Kovach who very kindly gave me a lovely signed paperback copy of The Next Girl as a gift when she came along to our book blogger/author meet up on 12^th May.

Via AmazonUK…..

IF YOU ONLY READ ONE BOOK THIS YEAR, MAKE IT THE NEXT GIRL…

You thought he’d come to save you. You were wrong.

‘Absolutely the best thriller I’ve read this year!’ Goodreads Reviewer, 5 stars
‘I absolutely, totally and utterly LOVED reading The Next Girl… has to be one of my top reads of 2018.’ Ginger Book Geek, 5 stars
‘Oh my goodness! This was gripping and fast moving from page one.’ Southern and Sassy Wine Lady, 5 stars

Deborah Jenkins pulls her coat around her for the short walk home in the pouring rain. But she never makes it home that night. And she is never seen again…

Four years later, an abandoned baby girl is found wrapped in dirty rags on a doorstep. An anonymous phone call urges the police to run a DNA test on the baby. But nobody is prepared for the results.

The newborn belongs to Deborah. She’s still alive…

THE GRIPPING THRILLER EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT – if you like Lisa Gardner, Robert Bryndza or Clare Mackintosh, you will absolutely love this. A completely unputdownable page-turner with an ending that will blow your mind.

‘Boy oh boy… I absolutely blinking well LOVED it.’ Ginger Book Geek, 5 stars
‘Just wow!… FANTASTIC… I just had to keep reading.’ Bonnie’s Book Talk, 5 stars
‘I couldn’t put it down.’ Goodreads Reviewer, 5 stars
‘Wow, wow wow! Excellent book!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘OMG… gripping… I have goosebumps.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘I am in love with this author.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘Brilliant!… Exceptional… Thrilling… superb.’ Renita D’Silva, 5 stars
‘A fantastic book!!!!! OMG so much suspense.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘I found this book unputdownable!!’ Goodreads reviewer
‘Brilliant, absolutely brilliant!!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘I was hooked from the start right to the last page.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘I loved this book! Chilling, disturbing and gripping!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘DI Gina Harte is my new heroine!’ Goodreads Reviewer, 5 stars

‘I like to give honest reviews. If I don’t like a book I will say I don’t like it… So here goes my review of The Next Girl…. without a doubt this is a fantastic book!!!!! OMG… This book literally I was not able to put down it kept me captivated from the first chapter. Who left the baby on the library steps? and why? How is this baby connected to missing person Deborah Jenkins?… YOU will HAVE to read to find out!… There is nothing that I didn’t like about this book. SO much suspense that kept you flipping through the pages to the end! Read today you will not be disappointed!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

About the author…..

Carla Kovach is a crime and horror author from the UK. The Next Girl, is the first book in the DI Gina Harte series and is published by Bookouture. Her earlier works include, Whispers Beneath the Pines, To Let, Flame and Meet Me at Marmaris Castle.

Carla co-runs a video production company, writes stageplays and screenplays. She currently has a horror feature film in production which is due for release in 2019.

Previous post featuring Carla Kovach…..

Our first #Stoke-on-Trent #bookblogger / #author #meetup – 12th May 2018 😊

Hi all! Today I have the pleasure of joining in with Kristy Brown’s Just Sam blog tour 🙂

Many thanks to Kelly @ Love Books Group Tours for the opportunity to take part.

Interview with Kristy Brown…..

For those who don’t know already, could you tell us about yourself and your book(s) please?

Hi. I’m Kristy from the UK. I write mostly teen and YA books. My first series, ‘Kiera’s Quest,’ is published by Muse It Up Publishing. It’s a teen fantasy series and very different from my new book, ‘Just Sam,’ which is a YA Contemporary Romance. Sam is loosely based in the world of tennis, but you don’t have to like the sport to enjoy the book. It’s mainly about a girl who suffers a great loss and her way back to believing in herself again and trusting in life and love.

Where did/do you get your ideas from?

Just Sam was inspired by my childhood, me and my mum watching tennis and how exciting that was. Sometimes I dream characters, my new paranormal book is totally based on a dream I had about the male lead character and the rest followed from him.

Are any of your characters based (however loosely) on anyone you know?

Yes. The two male love interests in Just Sam are very similar to the two crushes I had at school. I think you have to fancy your leads a little for the reader to like them too. Sam has lots of me in her, fiery, ambitious, yet self-doubting.

How do you pick your characters names?

For Kiera’s Quest I must admit I picked names of family and friends. I tend to stay away from that now, I see a character in my head and usually just know what they should be called.

Can you share your writing process with us, in a nutshell?

Yes. I must have complete silence, so my kids must be at school. I write a chapter by hand, messy and quickly, and then I type and edit that until it reads to my liking.

Who are your top 5 favourite authors?

Tricky, I like so many… Rick Yancey, J.K Rowling, John Green, Kiera Cass and Jennifer Armentrout. I could go on…

If you could meet any author, who would it be and what would you ask them?

Hmmm, J.K Rowling because of her struggle to get where she is today. She inspires me, and I think she could give a pretty good pep talk.

Were you a big reader as a child?

Yes. I loved reading and writing. I read a lot of Roald Dahl and in my teenage years I loved the Sweet Valley High books.

When did you start to write?

I wrote poetry and short stories when I was younger. I stopped when I became interested in acting. I moved to a big city and trained in that, but I lost my passion for it. I found my love for writing when my first son was born. He’d sleep in the day and I started writing a short story. That became longer and longer and was my first book, ‘Kiera’s Quest.’

If you could re-write the ending to any book what would it be and what would you change?

Sorry to any fans of the Divergent series, but the last book. I loved this series, but I threw Allegiant across the room when I finished it. I hate it when an author kills a love interest/main character off. I understand why she did it, but when your heavily invested in these characters it feels like a betrayal!

Is there a book you wish you had written?

“The Fifth Wave,” by Rick Yancey. Maybe ‘Hush Hush,’ ‘Fallen’ by Lauren Kate…. Lots!

If you wrote an autobiography, what would your title be?

I’ve never thought about it… maybe that will come.

If you could invite any fictional character for coffee who would it be and where would you take them?

Can I say Thor? (Obvious reasons!) Maybe Louisa from ‘Me Before You,’ she’s so vivacious and fun.

What are you working on right now?

Right now, I’m working on my paranormal series, ‘Summer’s End,’ which is coming out soon with Muse It Up Publishing. I’m also editing a retelling of Cinderella. When I get any spare time, I’m writing and podcasting for my joint YouTube channel, ‘Two Wordy.’

Tell us about your last release?

Just Sam is my last release.

Do you have a new release due?

Summer’s End… any time now.

What do you generally do to celebrate on publication day?

I have a drink with my husband and friends.

How can readers keep in touch with you?

I have an author page on Facebook. I’m very active on Twitter @KBrownauthor and you can find all my books on Goodreads.

Is there anything else you would like us to know?

No, just a big thank you for having me!! I love chatting so come tweet me! 😊

Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions, Kristy 🙂 

Just Sam

All Sam dreams of is being the next big tennis champion.

But when she suffers a great loss at such a young age, she finds it hard to believe in herself.

She becomes so scared of losing people that she hides her feelings to protect her heart.

Will she ever let anyone close enough to truly love her?

She never realised, her toughest match would be against life itself

Check out the rest of the blog tour for reviews, and more, with these awesome book bloggers…..

Enjoy!

Hi all!

Today I have the pleasure of welcoming R. D. Stevens to Chat About Books.

R. D. Stevens grew up in Kent in the 1980s and, after studying for his Philosophy degree, travelled the world for two years. Upon his return to the UK, Stevens worked in the charity sector briefly before training as a teacher and completing his MA in Religious Education. He currently lives in London with his wife, young son and dog, as works as a Head of Philosophy, Religion and Ethics at a nearby secondary school.

Many thanks to Alexa Davies for arranging the following interview…..

For those who don’t know already, could you tell us about yourself and your book(s) please?

I grew up in an unremarkable village in Kent, England and, after finishing school and studying for a Philosophy degree, I escaped and travelled/worked my way around the world for two years. After returning to the UK, I worked in the charity sector briefly before training as a teacher and completing my MA in Religious Education. I currently live in South East London with my wife, young son and dog, and work as a Head of Philosophy, Religion and Ethics at a nearby secondary school.

The Journal is a work of contemporary fiction that explores themes of meaning, family and truth. The novel poses the question: What do you do when you lose the only thing that you truly care for? It is a coming of age story about Ethan Willis, a young man on the cusp of adulthood, who is compelled to discover what happened to his sister, Charlotte, a wild adventurer who was last heard from in the depths of Southeast Asia. Ethan sets out to follow in her footsteps and embarks on a journey without a clear goal in sight, unaware that his life is about to change rapidly and irrevocably. The closer he gets to discovering the truth about his sister, the more he begins to understand himself, as well as his place in the world.

Where did/do you get your ideas from?

I try to take ideas from anywhere I can. It might be conversations that I overhear on the train, dreams I record from my previous night’s sleep or simply experiences that I reflect upon from my day to day life. At work, I teach philosophy and I try to take ideas from the themes, philosophers and discussions that I am lucky enough to be exposed to everyday. I also love to travel whenever possible and whilst abroad I keep journals and try to use those first-hand experiences of beautiful, complex or stark settings as part of the research for my next book.

In beginning The Journal, I wanted to use my notes from my time backpacking so that I could authentically represent the time and place in which Ethan Willis finds himself. On my travels, I spent over six months in South East Asia and visited Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Singapore, Malaysia and The Philippines. I instinctively felt that South East Asia would be the perfect setting for the story I had in mind. There is such a rich depth of variety, colours, tastes, sounds and experiences in South East Asia that I felt it would be the ideal place to throw my protagonist in at the deep end.

Are any of your characters based (however loosely) on anyone you know?

Whenever anyone writes they must draw from somewhere, so all of the characters in my novel are influenced by people that I have met or observed on some level. However, they are amalgamations, collections, developments or abstractions of these various encounters, there isn’t a particular individual on whom anyone in the book is based. Whilst backpacking, I met many different people who have influenced the characters in The Journal. In South East Asia, there were people traveling for different reasons and undergoing very different experiences and I wanted to try to represent them in the characters that Ethan meets along the way.

How do you pick your characters names?

Concerning the two lead characters, I found this process to be quite difficult. Ethan’s sister went through a number of different names before I finally settled on Charlotte. I think once you have set out the basic back story of your character and know that certain names would not be appropriate, it seems to come down to a certain feeling about what name best captures the character. Many of the names of the various backpackers in the novel are names of people that I had met whilst travelling and stuck in my head, such as Sven and Malin from Sweden.

Can you share your writing process with us, in a nutshell?

I try to record any ideas that I have for a short story or novel in a notebook or on my phone whenever I’m out and about. I then try to set aside time in the evenings in which I can shift my frame of mind from whatever has been happening that day into something different. When I sit down at the laptop and stare at the pixelated page, I enjoy the feeling of escape and the freedom of retreating into the world of my imagination for a few hours.

I try not to force my writing too much in any particular direction and to run with an idea if it starts leading me somewhere. Even if I look at that piece of writing another day and decide to scrap it, it is better than having nothing.

Once I feel I have reached a point where I can begin the editing process, my most important question is: Is there any chance that a sentence/paragraph would still work without a particular word/sentence? If there is, then I remove it. I also try to remind myself as often as possible that just because I’ve written something that I might think is clever, does not mean that it is…!

Who are your top 5 favourite authors?

This is a very difficult question to answer! But given that I’ve got to pick five, here goes: Chuck Palahniuk, Zadie Smith, J. D. Salinger, Ali Smith and Cormac McCarthy.

Were you a big reader as a child?

Yes, I think that was when my love of a good story first developed. My parents would buy me books as prizes if I ever did well at school and I think that the feeling of reward when getting a new book has stuck with me. I still love the feel of a brand new book in my hands.

When did you start to write?

I have been writing on and off for about ten years now. I write mainly in the time that I try to find during my evenings and weekends. What began as writing songs for a number of decidedly mediocre bands, turned into something more substantial when I signed up for a series of creative writing classes. During the classes, I really enjoyed setting aside the time to write and free up my mind to think about something completely different.

If you could re-write the ending to any book what would it be and what would you change?

I recently read a novel called The Tall Tale of Maxwell Anderson by Steve Joyce, which is worth a look if you haven’t come across it before. I don’t want to give away the ending, but a main character dies at the end of the book in a particular way and, whilst I think I would also have killed off that character, I would have done it quite differently…

Is there a book you wish you had written?

So many! Most books that I enjoy reading I wish I had written, to be honest. I am always amazed at the way that a great book can affect a person. To be able to write a book that had that affect, even on one person, would be wonderful.

If you wrote an autobiography, what would your title be?

What on earth was that all about?

If you could invite any fictional character for coffee who would it be and where would you take them?

I would love to have taken Holden Caulfield for coffee. I’d take him into an over-expensive, pretentious London café and we would people-watch and talk about how they are all phonies…

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I was the secretary of the University of Sheffield Skydiving Society.

What are you working on right now?

I am currently in the process of writing my second novel. This story is very different from the first and is set in a world that is similar to ours but with one or two crucial differences. The inspiration for this came from Sidney Shoemaker’s thought experiment concerning the possibility of a world in which there is time without change. The style is very different to The Journal, but there are some familiar themes present concerning existentialism and the quest for meaning.

What do you generally do to celebrate on publication day?

Well, so far I have only had one publication day and on that actual day I had a lowkey celebration at home. A week later I held a book launch in a gallery space above a local pub which was much more of a celebratory affair.

How can readers keep in touch with you?

I am on Twitter and can be followed with the handle @RDStevensAuthor. I also have a website https://rdstevensauthor.wixsite.com/thejournal

Is there anything else you would like us to know?

The Journal is designed to make you think and take you somewhere new, so if you would like to take some time out from everyday life (and secretly wish that you too could escape to a beach in Thailand), then my novel might be for you…!

Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions! 🙂

What do you do when you lose the only thing that you truly care for?

Ethan Willis is a confused 18 year old who struggles with the uncertainties of life and has just embarked on a quest to find his elder sister, Charlotte, who disappeared whilst travelling in South East Asia. Ethan admires and idolises his sister for her spontaneity, individualism and worldly understanding. His quest to locate her throws him into the backpacking world and, following what could be his sister’s ghost, he is taken on a journey through the countryside of Cambodia, into the remotest parts of Laos and finally to the party islands of Thailand.

When Ethan finds his sister’s journal by chance, he traces her footsteps. The travel journal, along with flashbacks to their childhood, reveals Charlotte’s nature and her relationship with Ethan, taking the young man on an existential journey as he is led to address many of his questions about meaning, truth and beauty.

With the help of a Elodie, a fragile and complex girl with whom he has developed a meaningful relationship, and his own growing sense of self-esteem, Ethan begins to question his relationship with his sister and why she disappeared. When he finally learns of a place in which he might be able to locate his sister, will he be ready to find her?

Hi all! Today I have the pleasure of joining in with Martin Granger’s Drugs To Forget blog tour.

Many thank to Kelly @ Love Books Group Tours for the opportunity to take part.

Interview with Martin Granger…..

For those who don’t know already, could you tell us about yourself and your book(s) please?

I’m a BAFTA nominated film-maker and author. I ran a production company for thirty years and made more than one hundred documentary films on subjects varying from modern piracy to the origins of the universe. My books are international thrillers based on a fictitious documentary film company and their intrepid investigative film director Nathalie Thompson.

I have written three books to date: Manila Harbour, Oceans on Fire and Drugs to Forget. I am currently writing Nathalie’s fourth adventure, Out of Sight.

Where did/do you get your ideas from?

Many people make films from their books. I make books from my films as my thrillers are based upon my past documentaries. All I have to do is to tell the real stories but sprinkle in some added crime.

Are any of your characters based (however loosely) on anyone you know?

Most of them. Nathalie is based on someone who used to work as a freelance for my production company. She wasn’t meant to be in the first book at all but just appeared in chapter 7. My editor told me to remove the first six chapters as he said the story began with her. After banging my head against the wall a few times I took his advice. Nathalie has been my protagonist ever since. I’ll leave it to you to guess which character is me.

How do you pick your characters’ names?

The key ones, I have no idea. The supporting cast, if they are from a foreign country, I find them on the Internet, using links such as ‘common Zimbabwean boys’ names’.

Can you share your writing process with us, in a nutshell?

I don’t write, I talk. I have a voice-activated program that I’ve been using for more than twenty years to write my documentaries. In the past, most of my scripts were spoken by actors and the speech rhythms have been useful. Now I imagine a film scene in my head and just speak it into the computer hoping that my reader will see the same pictures.

Who are your top 5 favourite authors?

Ah difficult. Ancient or modern?

In my genre – Robert Harris, Martin Cruz Smith, John Le Carre.

Classic – Jane Austen (love her dramatic style), E.M. Forster (only connect).

If you could meet any author, who would it be and what would you ask them?

Evelyn Waugh – What were you on when you wrote Scoop?

Were you a big reader as a child?

My parents installed a window above my door so that they could see my light on at night.

I thwarted this by reading with a torch under the covers.

When did you start to write?

Seriously, about the age of nine. I still have the handwritten book titled ‘Dick Dauntless’.

If you’ve read Manila Harbour, you won’t believe it but it’s about pirates.

If you could re-write the ending to any book what would it be and what would you change?

Would never have the nerve to rewrite another author’s book.

Is there a book you wish you had written?

Any bestseller I think.

If you wrote an autobiography, what would your title be?

If I get knocked down…

If you could invite any fictional character for coffee who would it be and where would you take them?

Godbole (from A Passage to India). Jaipur coffee house.

What are you working on right now?

My fourth Nathalie Thompson book ‘Out of Sight’. A thriller about satellites and space junk involving a blind Film Director.

Tell us about your last release?

Oceans on Fire was published two years ago. A film crew are making a film on ocean energy when things start going seriously wrong. A book that questions who owns the oceans and the efforts people will go to grab their resources.

Do you have a new release due?

Drugs to Forget will be published on 31st May 2018. The story involves a foreign chemical agent found on British soil. Nathalie Thompson is charged with a race against time and the terrible threat of bioterror. And if you’re wondering whether the theme is familiar, I outlined the plot two years ago, long before the Russian nerve agent event.

What do you generally do to celebrate on publication day?

No plans at the moment I’m open to invitations.

How can readers keep in touch with you?

Follow me on Twitter @mgrangerbooks or contact details on my website martingrangerbooks.com

Is there anything else you would like us to know?

An article on the background of the book can be found in CrimeTime magazine using the following link.

http://www.crimetime.co.uk/drugs-to-forget-martin-granger-talks-to-crime-time/

Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions, Martin 🙂

Happy Bank Holiday Monday to you all!

Today I have the pleasure of joining in with George Costigan’s blog tour for The Soldier’s Home. I have a great interview with the author himself to share with you all.

Many thanks to Kelly @ Love Books Group Tours for the opportunity to take part.

Interview with George Costigan…..

For those who don’t know already, could you tell us about yourself and your book(s) please?

Basically the three books are the story of a house. A man moves his house, by hand, with a cow and a cart, and re-builds it. Why? That is for you to find out…

| Where did/do you get your ideas from?

Someone wise once said to me ‘ideas are just there, waiting for the person who finds them. I found this one because a friend took me to show me the house, in its utter isolation, and then told me the story of its being moved there and when i asked ‘why’ did the man do that, she said ‘There is no-one alive who knows…’ So I invented. That is how it all started.

| Are any of your characters based (however loosely) on anyone you know?

Far, far too much my wife says. I tend to use real people’s names and then change them later. Just to have a visual picture in my head to work with. That works best for me.

| How do you pick your characters names?

Sometimes following the procedure in the previous question, or I just choose a name I like or one that fits the character – but of course that character can change as you write a story and then I have to change his or her name accordingly!

| Can you share your writing process with us, in a nutshell?

Oh gosh. I write, I read it, I retain the stuff I like, I keep writing, I keep reading – a writer friend described it as ‘constant polishing’. I think you could consider me as a ‘constant polisher.’

| Who are your top 5 favourite authors?

OMG. Right now, and it changes of course, I’m reading Sebastian Barry and he is brilliant. Because I read she was Obama’s favourite author, I was curious about Marilynne Robinson and just had to read her – fantastic. I love Maurice Sendak, I always am delighted to go back to Byron – and a fifth? Chandler.

| If you could meet any author, who would it be and what would you ask them?

I’d like to have met John Steinbeck, but I’m quite sure I would have wanted him to do all the talking! Or Eugene O’Neil. I have no idea what I would ask them but it would be great to meet them!

| Were you a big reader as a child?

Tricky question as how can you compare? I could only with my brother – and we both read avidly I think.

| When did you start to write?

I think I have always tinkered with words, since enjoying writing essays at school. Writing has always been a part of me.

| Is there a book you wish you had written?

Loads and loads! Everything I’ve ever liked, actually…

| If you wrote an autobiography, what would your title be?

I’ll let you know if I do ……………..

| If you could invite any fictional character for coffee who would it be and where would you take them?

Good god. My brain fuses. Elizabeth Bennett, and there’s a wee coffee shop on Iona I’m sure she’d find relaxing, and I certainly would.

| What are you working on right now?

I’m about to re-write [‘All writing is re-writing’ said somebody harder working than me} a novel about a peculiar moment between a 30 year-old and a 70 year-old.

| Tell us about your last release?

‘The Soldier’s Home’ is the continuation and completion of the story of The House, released on May 17th.

| What do you generally do to celebrate on publication day?

This is only the second book I’ve had published so I have no ritual but I’m sure, like the first, it will essentially be a private thing, I will walk about my life and no-one knows my very special secret today. Exactly as I felt walking home from leaving my wife in hospital with our then five hour old son.

Many thanks for taking the time to answer my questions, George 🙂

THE SOLDIER’S HOME

George Costigan

“A magnificent, big beast of a book!” – renowned playwright Willy Russell

The Soldier’s Home is the stunning sequel to the bestselling debut, The Single Soldier, by actor and writer George Costigan.

‘Beautifully written.’ – Sally Wainwright

The war is over and his home was built…but a home is just a set of empty rooms without people and love. After surviving the devastation, secrets, lies and tragedies of a community under German occupation, can people now rekindle their lives, and rediscover their reasons for surviving? As the soldier waits for the return of his love, the world keeps moving, threatening to leave his hopes and dreams behind…. History, secrets and painful truths collide in this astonishingly human, warm and emotive sequel from writer George Costigan.

Purchase link…..

George Costigan is best known for Rita, Sue and Bob Too and more recently Happy Valley, his acting career has included working with Sally Wainwright, Willy Russell, Alan Clarke and Clint Eastwood. He has directed Daniel Day-Lewis and Pete Postlethwaite, and his writing for the stage includes several Liverpool Everyman pub shows and ‘Trust Byron’, for which he was nominated for Best Actor at the Edinburgh Festival. He and partner Julia North have three sons and one grandson and live in York.

Follow the rest of the blog tour for reviews, and more, with these awesome book bloggers…..

Enjoy!

Hi! I am thrilled to be joining in with Jo Furniss’s cover reveal for her upcoming release, The Trailing Spouse 🙂

The Trailing Spouse

Amanda Bonham moved halfway around the world to be with the man she loves. Although expat life in Singapore can be difficult, Edward Bonham is a dream husband and a doting father to his teenage daughter, Josie.

But when their maid dies in an apparent suicide—and Amanda discovers the woman was pregnant and hiding a stash of drugs prescribed to Edward—she can’t help but wonder if her perfect husband has a fatal flaw. And if he can’t resist temptation under their own roof, what does he get up to when he travels?

Camille Kemble also has questions for Edward. Recently returned to Singapore, Camille is determined to resolve a family mystery. Amid a jumble of faded childhood memories, she keeps seeing Edward’s handsome face. And she wants to know why.

For one woman, the search for answers threatens everything she has. For another, it’s the key to all she lost. Both will follow his trail of secrets into the darkness to find the truth.

Check this out ⇓⇓⇓

How gorgeous is that!! Love it!

Pre-order Links –

https://amzn.to/2GwaX9P (Amazon.co.uk)

https://amzn.to/2IC1jjv (Amazon.com)

http://bit.ly/2uUwSTt (Barnes and Noble)

Author Bio –

After spending a decade as a broadcast journalist for the BBC, Jo Furniss gave up the glamour of night shifts to become a freelance writer and serial expatriate. Originally from the United Kingdom, she spent seven years in Singapore and also lived in Switzerland and Cameroon.

As a journalist, Jo worked for numerous online outlets and magazines, including Monocle and the Economist. She has edited books for a Nobel laureate and the palace of the Sultan of Brunei. She has a Distinction in MA Professional Writing from Falmouth University.

Jo’s debut novel, All the Little Children, was an Amazon Charts bestseller. Connect with her via Facebook (/JoFurnissAuthor) and Twitter (@Jo_Furniss) or on her website, http://www.jofurniss.com.

Previous post on Chat About Books featuring Jo Furniss…..

Our first #Stoke-on-Trent #bookblogger / #author #meetup – 12th May 2018 😊

Winning Ticket is a very unique story and one which I have thoroughly enjoyed. It’s an interesting and thought provoking concept.

What would you do if you found yourself with a winning lottery ticket in your hand, but you knew full well it didn’t rightfully belong to you? Would you cash it? I’m sure many of us would at least be tempted! Would you be able to live with the guilt though if you did?

This is exactly the situation Rakesh finds himself in when Tom, a local drunk, brings his lottery ticket in to be checked. Rakesh owns and manages a shop with his wife Jas. They have two children, Sangita and Amal, and they are struggling. The shop isn’t doing well and Jas is very unhappy. No wonder Rakesh sees this lottery ticket as their only way out! However, this goes against everything a Sikh stands for and it isn’t long before Rakesh finds himself unable to cope with the guilt. I’m sure most people, Sikh or otherwise, would struggle with their conscience in the same situation.

Jas’s happiness with their new fortune and luxury lifestyle is short lived and she finds herself increasingly worried for Rakesh’s health and her intervention sees him face to face with Tom again. Rakesh sees this as a sign and is determined to make amends, even if it means losing everything.

Winning Ticket is a very character driven story. These people are very real and believable and I found myself immersed in their story. I don’t know much about the Sikh religion so it was good to learn a bit about that. Rakesh is a very likeable character, despite his lapse in judgement that day. I didn’t warm to Jas, I have to say. Not until right at the end at least. Tom is a great character. I loved that he formed an instant connection with Amal. He seemed genuinely thankful for the healthier life he was now living. An inspiration to anyone struggling with addiction and proof that things can work out alright in the end. I have an inkling he might have known the truth all along.

I have heard that Winning Ticket is to be made in to a film which I think is awesome! Definitely one to watch.

Many thanks to the author and publisher for my review copy. I am more than happy to recommend.

Rakesh Singh can’t make his general store pay and Jas, his wife, just hates shop-life. Rakki is Dudley-born, and Jas is from Punjab. Daughter Sangita aspires to get into music college and son Amal has learning difficulties. With money tight, it’s hard to know which way to turn.
Temptation comes Rakki’s way when a drunken down-and-out leaves behind a winning lottery ticket. It could make all the difference… But how to hide the secret? And what of conscience and Sikh ancestral roots?
A trip to India merely fuels his guilt, and as the family enjoy new riches, Rakki’s life is soon spiralling downwards. Bemused by drink and pressured by blackmail, he sees no escape, until a chance meeting with the man he wronged spins Rakki off in an entirely new direction.

About the Author

Hi! I’m delighted to be joining in with Rachel Lynch’s Deep Fear blog tour today. I have a lovely interview with the author herself to share with you all. 

Many thanks to Ellie Pilcher, at Canelo, for the opportunity to take part.

Interview with Rachel Lynch…..

For those who don’t know already, could you tell us about yourself and your book(s) please?

I’m a busy full time mum. I was a history teacher for twelve years and a personal trainer for ten. I began writing full time eight years ago. I love all genres but I write Crime Thrillers because I get to create awesome characters who pursue a journey to enable good to triumph over evil and I love that about crime fiction.

Where did/do you get your ideas from?

I get my ideas from everything; it might be an overheard conversation, a news piece, an ancient myth, a character at an airport, or something my children told me. I’m thinking about stories constantly, and writing is one way to still the noise.

Are any of your characters based (however loosely) on anyone you know?

I suppose we all write about what we’ve seen and experienced. There’s lots of me in Kelly: I’m from Cumbria, I’m a runner, I’m stubborn and committed, but, there the similarity ends. There are bits of my husband in Johnny: he’s ex-army, but, again, my characters have to fly solo and once they’re created they begin to evolve all on their own. That’s the joy of fiction: creating a whole world to immerse one’s self in.

How do you pick your characters names?

My character’s names are utterly random. Except that I make a point of making sure they’re not real or related to anyone in my life.

Can you share your writing process with us, in a nutshell?

My writing process is utterly erratic and depends on when I get a moment’s peace. I have two demanding children (13 and 11), and I usually write when they’re either at school or in bed. I write at a desk in an extension with a lot of sun light, and I sometimes listen to music. I’m very near the kettle as I drink a lot of coffee.

Who are your top 5 favourite authors?

This is such a difficult question! I have no idea how to narrow down the thousands of amazing authors I’ve read. All I can do is tell you about five people who pop into my head and who, when I’ve read their work, make me emotional. Maya Angelou, Primo Levi, Khaled Hosseini, Joseph Conrad and Daphne Du Maurier.

If you could meet any author, who would it be and what would you ask them?

Another tough question! Perhaps Arthur Miller, and I’d ask him what it was like to be witch hunted in the Red Scare of the 1950s in America. (I might also ask him about Marilyn Monroe.) Turning life experience into unforgettable fiction, like The Crucible, is awe inspiring to me.

Were you a big reader as a child?

My head was always in a book as a child, books were my life. They were my gateway out of a very narrow minded, working class upbringing and showed me places that I wanted to go. I’ve never lost that sense of exploration and wonder. Books make everything possible.

When did you start to write?

I’ve always written something, from poetry to articles. I began writing seriously eight years ago, when I wrote my first full length novel. I can remember thinking that 100,000 words was an impossible task, but I eventually managed it and that’s now where I’m comfortable.

If you could re-write the ending to any book what would it be and what would you change?

Being a hopeless romantic, I’d probably have Romeo and Juliet running away together.

Is there a book you wish you had written?

There are plenty! I like stories that make my hairs stand up on end, so, Sarah’s Key by Tatiana De Rosnay would be one example…

If you wrote an autobiography, what would your title be?

The Road less Travelled

If you could invite any fictional character for coffee who would it be and where would you take them?

It would have to be Hercule Poirot, I’d take him to a little place on Montmartre…

Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I don’t like oysters

What are you working on right now?

In between the publicity for Deep Fear, I’m editing number three in the Kelly Porter series and finishing number four.

Tell us about your last release?

Dark Game is about a series of seemingly unconnected crimes in The Lake District, investigated by Detective Inspector Kelly Porter. She unravels a web of organised crime that has been establishing itself in the area for quite some time, and introduces us to Kelly’s professional and personal life. She faces tough decisions as her enquiries sometimes fall too close to home, and, as the shady and brutal characters behind the stream of illegal activity are revealed, Kelly realises that perhaps her beloved Lake District isn’t the sleepy tranquil idyll that she once assumed.

Do you have a new release due?

Deep Fear sees Kelly Porter back on the case, but this time hunting a sadistic killer who leaves strange clues on each victim. It’s a race against time for her to solve the case as more and more women are taken, and pressure mounts to rid the beautiful Lake District of a deranged monster.

What do you generally do to celebrate on publication day?

It’s an ordinary working day for me, I get on with my work because there’s always more to say.

How can readers keep in touch with you?

I’m on twitter @r_lynchcrime and Instagram at rachellynchcrime. Come and say hello!

Is there anything else you would like us to know?

Crime in the Lake District is actually very low!

Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions, Rachel 🙂

Title: Deep Fear

Author Name: Rachel Lynch

Previous Books (if applicable): Dark Game

Genre: Crime, Thriller, Police Procedural

Release Date: 21st May 2018

Publisher: Canelo

Book Blurb: DI Kelly Porter is back. But will this new case push her beyond her limits?

On a peaceful summer’s morning in the Lake District, a woman’s body is discovered outside a church. She’s been murdered and a brutal, symbolic act performed on her corpse. DI Kelly Porter is in charge of the team investigating the crime, and is determined to bring the killer to justice. But as more deaths occur it is clear this is the work of a disturbed, dangerous and determined individual. Can Kelly put the puzzle pieces together before the danger comes closer to home?

Don’t miss this gripping crime thriller featuring an unforgettable detective. Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Patricia Gibney and Robert Bryndza.

Link to Book:

Author Bio:

Rachel Lynch grew up in Cumbria and the lakes and fells are never far away from her. London pulled her away to teach History and marry an Army Officer, whom she followed around the globe for thirteen years. A change of career after children led to personal training and sports therapy, but writing was always the overwhelming force driving the future. The human capacity for compassion as well as its descent into the brutal and murky world of crime are fundamental to her work.