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From Netgalley….

 Wicked Dix

I’ve always been a bad boy, with a very wicked reputation.

But then I met Madison – sweet, vulnerable, innocent Madison. She makes me feel as if there is hope for me. As if I could be a good man. I need her more than I need air to breathe.

There’s just one problem: Juliet. She’s a temptress who won’t take no for an answer. If I resist her, she’ll use our dirty secret to ruin everything with Madison. I don’t want to lose Madison, but can I really change?

This is my chance to prove that I can. But it’s going to be one hell of a ride. Are you ready?

Seriously sexy and totally addictive, Wicked Dix is the second in the Hard Love Romance series. Find out how it all began…Dirty Dix OUT NOW.

 The Second Chance Shoe Shop

‘The Second Chance Shoe Shop is that rarest of treats, a story filled with warm and wonderful characters who feel like your best friends from the first page.’ Tilly Tennant

All Riley Flynn wants is to meet someone who makes her happy. But attracting the right kind of man is not easy, and with her heart still hurting from her last break-up, Riley believes she’ll never find love again.

A year ago, Sadie Stewart’s whole world was shattered when her husband, Ross, died. She has struggled to keep herself together for the sake of their young daughter, but with the anniversary of his death approaching, Sadie finds herself overwhelmed by grief.

Sadie and Riley work at Chandlers shoe shop, in the charming town of Hedworth. But when Chandlers is threatened with closure, the friends are confronted with the loss of not only their jobs, but also their support network – the glue that holds them together when they are close to breaking.

As they put together a plan to save their beloved shop, Sadie realises that she might just be learning to live again. Could it be that new beginnings are just round the corner? The campaign also finds Riley unexpectedly crossing paths with charming photographer, Ethan. Maybe her second chance at love is right under her feet …

A delightfully romantic tale of love, friendship and putting your best foot forward, for fans of Carole Matthews and Amanda Prowse.

 Heat It Up (Apparently I requested this from Netgalley, but I must have done it in my sleep sometime as it’s not a book I’ve heard of before! Oh well, it’s on my shelf now so I’ll give it a go.)

Some games are hotter off the ice…

Sofia Phillips feels cursed. Her father cheated on her mother, her boyfriend cheated on her―she’s done with dating. A summer work-exchange program in Finland is the perfect escape. But instead of gaining experience as an athletic trainer, she’s cleaning toilets. Awesome. The trip is a disaster, and even better, she meets Kyle Bennett. In the sauna. Naked.

Sexy hockey player Kyle was the star right wing for an NHL team. But after an accident killed his wife and left him injured, Kyle has appreciated the “therapeutic” benefits of booze and puck bunnies. Now in Finland for the summer, he’s coaching in an elite hockey-training camp for teens. When Sofia’s grandmother decides to set her up with a nice Finnish man, Sofia recruits Kyle as her make-believe boyfriend. Neither expects their first kiss to sizzle. And neither expects, while stranded on an island during a storm, to have a scorching night of passion.

But as their charade, and then their attraction, develops into something deeper, the past comes back, threatening to destroy them. They must decide if their feelings for each other are strong enough to survive―or it will be game over.

Purchased/Downloaded….

 Nowhere to Run

A chilling and action-packed crime novel

Sarah Harmon’s life has been complicated. Very complicated, for a nineteen- year old just leaving high school. But as she steps out on a clear autumn day to run the nearby cliff trails, she’s ready to put the past behind her and move on.

She has a secret one-way plane ticket to a new life, and a plan, waiting.

But time for Sarah has run out. For she’s about to cross paths with someone more twisted than the path she’s running.

Inspector Susan Kovalsky, not long on the job and fleeing her own city demons, has her hands full.

The town of Lion’s Bay might appear picture post-card perfect, nestled on the stunning clear waters of Georgian Bay, but there’s a lot going on under its shiny surface. It seems the more stones she turns over, the more secrets she unearths, and the more ripples she creates.

Will she ever discover who wanted this beautiful young woman dead?

After all, the suspects are in no short supply. How about all the people who lost their savings trusting her father?

Could one of them have sought revenge? What about her fiancé, Tommy Logan, son of a prominent local family? Did he learn of her plans to flee?

And what about Tommy’s strange cousin Trudy? There’s something not right about her at all. And Tommy’s mother sees the way her husband looks at their future daughter-in-law.

But is it just a coincidence that Sarah’s future father-in-law’s first wife died on the very same cliffs?

With eerie similarities to the death of a local young girl years earlier, a murder that has gone unsolved, Inspector Kovalsky’s suspicions deepen.

Reports that the lovely Sarah had a bit of a wild side unnerve our detective as she begins to solve the crime.

With more turns than the roads that carve through the rocky cliffs of this northern town, Nowhere to Run will keep your heart racing until the very last page.

Added to my Wish List….

Published (Kindle edition) – 1st April 2016.

Publisher – Blackbird Digital Books

4/5

When the publisher contacted me via Twitter regarding an ARC of this novella, I was more than intrigued to give it a go. I don’t often read Novellas, but I certainly will in future.

Homecoming is a beautifully written love story with a difference. One I’m sure would have held my interest just as easily had it been written as full length novel.

Rosie loves Tom, she always has and always will. All she’s ever wanted is to know he loves her too. I can’t say too much without spoiling it for those who haven’t read it yet, but this is such a touching story which I’m sure will be enjoyed by all who read it. A story which will certainly stay with me.

I will be adding Tanya Bullock’s other books to my TBR list.

Many thanks to Blackbird Digital Books for my ARC.

You can pre-order the Kindle edition of Homecoming HERE

The paperback edition of Homecoming was released on 26th November 2015. You can purchase a paperback copy HERE

Book description:

All that mattered to Rosie, all that had ever really mattered, was that she loved Tom and he loved her

Rosie and Tom belong together.
For too long, war and its devastating aftermath have kept them apart.
Now that Tom has finally returned home, Rosie hopes that they will be able to put the past behind them.
But when a mysterious sequence of events unfolds, their love is put to the test once more.
With a shocking secret hanging heavily over their relationship…
With circumstances conspiring against them at every turn…
Rosie and Tom find themselves caught up in the biggest battle of their lives.
Will their demons ultimately consume them?
Or will love conquer all in the end?

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT HOMECOMING

‘One of the most touching romantic tales I’ve read in a long time … a wonderful surprise; a twist on a well-loved genre that will delight and tug at the heart strings.’ — Shelley Wilson, Author

‘Homecoming…is unique which is truly difficult to find in modern fiction … For originality and excellent character development and for living up to the hype, I rate this novella as 5 out of 5 stars.’ — Amie Gaudet, Amie’s Book Reviews

‘Love weaves through it in colourful strands, radiating out from the funny, plucky heroine to those around her … A beautiful and satisfying read.’ — Sandra Peachey, Author

‘This author has a real gift for word craft. Homecoming is a uniquely told love story … a lovely, lovely read.’ — T.S Harvey, Author

‘A novella that falls far from the mainstream love stories we find ourselves consuming these days. Being someone who truly appreciates beautiful writing, it wasn’t hard for me to complete this book in one sitting.’ — Nihaad Gamieldien, Read and Seek

‘Just read the book until it reaches your heart … every page you turn, there is something new but very unusual.’ — Laura Prime

‘This is the type of story that makes you feel a certain way after you read it. For me, it was a bittersweet longing … a lovely story told in an interesting way.’ — Kerrie Irish

About the Author

Today I am thrilled to share this gorgeous cover!

How could you not want to read this book!?

The Second Chance Shoe Shop will be published on 8th April 2016 by Bookouture .

You can pre-order your copy HERE

‘The Second Chance Shoe Shop is that rarest of treats, a story filled with warm and wonderful characters who feel like your best friends from the first page.’ Tilly Tennant

All Riley Flynn wants is to meet someone who makes her happy. But attracting the right kind of man is not easy, and with her heart still hurting from her last break-up, Riley believes she’ll never find love again.

A year ago, Sadie Stewart’s whole world was shattered when her husband, Ross, died. She has struggled to keep herself together for the sake of their young daughter, but with the anniversary of his death approaching, Sadie finds herself overwhelmed by grief.

Sadie and Riley work at Chandlers shoe shop, in the charming town of Hedworth. But when Chandlers is threatened with closure, the friends are confronted with the loss of not only their jobs, but also their support network – the glue that holds them together when they are close to breaking.

As they put together a plan to save their beloved shop, Sadie realises that she might just be learning to live again. Could it be that new beginnings are just round the corner? The campaign also finds Riley unexpectedly crossing paths with charming photographer, Ethan. Maybe her second chance at love is right under her feet …

A delightfully romantic tale of love, friendship and putting your best foot forward, for fans of Carole Matthews and Amanda Prowse.

Praise for Marcie Steele:

‘Wonderfully warm, with characters every woman can relate to, reading Marcie Steele’s Stirred With Love will remind you of chatting over coffee with three of your closest girlfriends. A fantastic read about overcoming life’s obstacles with friendship and love.’ Talli Roland

‘A squidgy cinnamon bun of a book – not too sweet but a perfect pick me up. ’ Reading Room with a View

‘Hooks you immediately, and you feel as if you’re reading about your friends … well written, character rich, heartwarming. An easy 5 stars.’ Bibliophile Book Club

‘I simply adored this book! What an absolutely delightful novel that exceeded all my expectations and left me wanting more … This is chick-lit at it’s best.’ Booklover Catlady Reviews

About the author….

I’m Mel Sherratt but I also write under the name of Marcie Steele. I’m a romantic at heart and have always wanted to write about characters who were not necessarily involved in the darker side of life. Coffee, cakes and friends are three of my favourite things, hence Stirred with Love for my first book writing as Marcie Steele. My second, That’s What Friends are For, will be published in December 2015.

As Mel, I write crime thrillers, psychological suspense and fiction with a punch – or grit-lit, as I call it. Shortlisted for the prestigious CWA (Crime Writer’s Association) Dagger in Library Award 2014, my inspiration comes from authors such as Mandasue Heller, Lynda la Plante, Mandasue Heller and Elizabeth Haynes. Since 2012, all seven of my crime novels have been bestsellers, each one climbing into the kindle UK top 20 and I’ve had several number ones.

I live in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, with my husband and terrier, Dexter. You can find out more at my website http://www.melsherratt.co.uk or I’m on Twitter at @writermels

If you haven’t already, you really should check out the other titles by Marcie Steele. You can see her author page on Amazon HERE . I highly recommend them both!

I also highly recommend Mel’s other books. You can view them all HERE . Treat yourself, you won’t regret it!

Proud to be part of Team Sherratt 🙂

Publisher: Bookouture (8th October 2015)

5/5*

First of all, thanks to Bookouture for approving my request via Netgalley and for awarding me auto-approval for their titles. I am over the moon!

This is not the sort of book I would generally read, but I thought I’d give it a go as it has so many great reviews and with Bookouture as the publisher I knew it would have to be good. They have such fabulous authors on their books.

Dirty Dix had me totally hooked from the beginning.

Dr. Dixon Mathews (Psychiatrist) is a very charismatic character. A bad boy, obviously, but there’s more to him than that. He’s hurt. He was engaged, but was betrayed in the worst way possible, so he’s gone a bit wild. I’m sure many men (and women) have sought comfort and escapism in the arms of a stranger (or many in this case!) when dumped by the person they thought was the love of their life. He also has family issues which some will relate to.

This book is very raunchy so it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but it does have a good story to it. I was immediately drawn to Dixon. He’s a very likeable character, despite his antics. He has a vulnerable and sensitive side which is highlighted when he meets Madison. I liked how their relationship progressed although I did want to bang their heads together on numerous occasions! Madison’s back story is heart-breaking and I was really hoping things would work out for them both. Of course, nothing was ever going to be straight forward with Juliet on the scene. She is not a likeable character at all.

I also loved the banter between Dixon and his two best friends, Hunter and Finch. There are laugh out loud moments when they are together. Brilliant!

Overall, I’m glad I went out of my comfort zone and read something I wouldn’t normally choose. I read it within two days, so I think that says it all really!

This is the first book I’ve read by Monica James, but it won’t be the last. Book 2 has been downloaded!

Many thanks again to Bookouture, the author and Netgalley for my kindle copy.

You can purchase your copy HERE

Description –

I knew she was bad news when she walked into my office, but I just couldn’t help myself…

Filthy, sexy and full of surprises, Juliet is so hot she has me on fire. I’ve met my match and I can’t help going back for more.

Then there’s Madison… she’s sweet, funny and awakens in me a fierce need to protect her.

But I don’t do relationships. I don’t usually do the same woman twice.

Juliet and Madison: Two very different women have got me completely hooked.

Who will I choose?

I know who I should choose, but I never said I was the hero of this story, or even the good guy. And besides, who wants to be good, when it feels so good being bad?

My tale isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re game, strap yourself in and expect the unexpected. But don’t say I didn’t warn you…

What reviewers are saying….

Achingly sexy and highly addictive, Dirty Dix, the first in the Hard Love Romance series, will have you hooked. Wicked Dix coming soon…

Note: Previously published as ‘Addicted to Sin’.

‘Wickedly sexy, provocative and daring with the right dose of the quintessential bad boy…’ Heidi McLaughlin

‘Monica James is a master of story telling that holds you captive with memorable story lines, intriguing characters, steamy scenes and unexpected twists and turns. You will devour every word she offers. I am officially addicted to Dixon Mathews.‘ Rachel Brookes

‘A captivating, witty, and sexy read. Monica James has written an intoxicating novel that will leave you on the edge of your seat and thirsting for more when it’s all over.‘ Justine Elvira

‘Monica James has created another character that I couldn’t get enough of. Dr Dixon Mathews’ kept me addicted until the very last page.’ Lisa Edward

‘I am addicted to three things: carbs, books, and Monica James. I devoured this!‘ CJ Roberts

Read what everyone is saying about Monica James:

‘WOW!! I am completely speechless. EMOTIONAL. SUPERB. BRILLIANT. Yes one of the best books I have ever read. I do not give many 5+ stars, but this is on that list.’ Just Booked

‘OH MY EFFING GOSH… I. Cant. Even. Describe. What… No Way… Mind-Blown… That was me sitting on my couch in shock after reading this book. Monica James is literally going to give me a heart attack and I FREAKIN LOVE HER for it HAHA!!’ All is Read

‘Monica James is just straight brilliant.’ A Diary of a Book Addict

‘Monica James will steal your heart.’ The Reading Vixens

‘I was a mess of emotions reading this. I laughed and cried. It was an amazing read. I can’t wait to read more stories by Monica. If they are anything like this one I know I will love them.’ Summer’s Book Blog

‘Monica, Monica, Monica, if you didn’t live an ocean away, I would come to your house and demand you tell me the rest of this story…cause I don’t want to wait to see what happens.’ Ilsa Madden-Mills

‘I am left mouth hanging open, heart beating so fast…’ Addicted Souls Book Blog

‘I am convinced Ms. James has a little piece of the devil in her.’ Mommy’s Late Night Book-Up

‘James gave the right amount of angst to leave a girl like me just a bit thirsty for more.’ Reality Bites

From Netgalley:

Publication date – 21st March 2016 (Carina)

Description:

A sparkling romantic comedy guaranteed to beat the winter blues, What Happens in the Alps… is one story you don’t want miss in 2016!

UP IN THE MAGICAL, SNOW-KISSED MOUNTAINS…

Two years ago, Annie Brewer’s life was turned upside down when her adrenaline-junkie husband died in a tragic climbing accident. So she’s hoping that moving to the beautiful village of Santorso in the Italian Alps will finally put her life back on track!

…ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN!

She might be going into business with her oldest friend – notorious lady-charmer Matt Brown – but men are definitely out of the question for Annie! That is, until she bumps into tall, dark and delicious Alessandro Lago on the ski slopes…and spontaneously says ‘Yes’ to a date!

It must be the crisp, mountain air but suddenly, anything seems possible. The only trouble is, chivalrous Matt is looking more gorgeous than ever…

I have since finished this. If you haven’t already and would like to, you can read my review HERE

Publication date – 5th May 2016 (Penguin)

Description:

She can forgive. They can’t forget.

After ten years in the Huntsville State Penitentiary, Jasper Curtis returns home to live with his sister and her two daughters. Lizzie does not know who she’s letting into her home: the brother she grew up loving or the monster he became.

Teenage Katie distrusts this strange man in their home but eleven-year-old Joanne is just intrigued by her new uncle.

Jasper says he’s all done with trouble, but in a forgotten prairie town that knows no forgiveness, it does not take long for trouble to arrive at their door …

Publication date – 8th October 2015 (Bookouture)

Description:

I knew she was bad news when she walked into my office, but I just couldn’t help myself…

Filthy, sexy and full of surprises, Juliet is so hot she has me on fire. I’ve met my match and I can’t help going back for more.

Then there’s Madison… she’s sweet, funny and awakens in me a fierce need to protect her.

But I don’t do relationships. I don’t usually do the same woman twice.

Juliet and Madison: Two very different women have got me completely hooked.

Who will I choose?

I know who I should choose, but I never said I was the hero of this story, or even the good guy. And besides, who wants to be good, when it feels so good being bad?

My tale isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re game, strap yourself in and expect the unexpected. But don’t say I didn’t warn you…

Publication date: 21st April 2016 (The Borough Press)

Description –

The island is quiet now.

On a remote Scottish island, five children are the only ones left. Since the Last Adult died, sensible Elizabeth has been the group leader, testing for a radio signal, playing teacher and keeping an eye on Alex, the littlest, whose insulin can only last so long.

There is ‘shopping’ to do in the houses they haven’t yet searched and wrong smells to avoid. For eight-year-old Rona each day brings fresh hope that someone will come back for them, tempered by the reality of their dwindling supplies.

With no adults to rebel against, squabbles threaten the fragile family they have formed. And when brothers Calum Ian and Duncan attempt to thwart Elizabeth’s leadership, it prompts a chain of events that will endanger Alex’s life and test them all in unimaginable ways.

Reminiscent of The Lord of the Flies and The Cement Garden, The Last of Us is a powerful and heartbreaking novel of aftershock, courage and survival.

Publication date: 2nd June 2016 (Penguin)

Description –

A brother chosen. A brother left behind. And a family where you’d least expect to find one.

Leon is nine, and has a perfect baby brother called Jake. They have gone to live with Maureen, who has fuzzy red hair like a halo, and a belly like Father Christmas. But the adults are speaking in low voices, and wearing Pretend faces. They are threatening to give Jake to strangers. Since Jake is white and Leon is not.

As Leon struggles to cope with his anger, certain things can still make him smile – like Curly Wurlys, riding his bike fast downhill, burying his hands deep in the soil, hanging out with Tufty (who reminds him of his dad), and stealing enough coins so that one day he can rescue Jake and his mum.

Evoking a Britain of the early eighties, My Name is Leon is a heart-breaking story of love, identity and learning to overcome unbearable loss. Of the fierce bond between siblings. And how – just when we least expect it – we manage to find our way home.

From the author:

Publication date – 1st September 2014 (Wings ePress)

Description:

DCI Peter Hatherall is called in to investigate a shooting on the Earl of Ditchburn’s country estate. The Earl’s activities have angered animal rights and environmental groups but subsequent deaths suggest Elmsgrove Racehorse Yard is the target. There is more at stake than a horse race and time is running out for Hatherall to solve the case before the culprit kills again.

Ordered/downloaded:

Added to my Wish List (mainly based on recommendations from fellow bloggers):

Publisher – Carina – 21st March 2016.

4/5*

This is the first book I’ve read by T A Williams. I decided to request it from Netgalley after seeing it mentioned on Twitter. I read a lot of crime fiction / psychological thrillers so I thought this would be a nice change, and it really was.

The story is centred around Annie Brewer who is embarking on a new venture, setting up a new English School in Santorso. Annie is 37 and a widow. She lost her adventure seeking husband, Steve, in a tragic climbing accident two years previously. The worst two years of her life, but now she feels ready to start moving on and build a new life for herself. I liked Annie. I think she is someone I would get on with in the real world. All of the characters are very likeable and Santorso sounds like a lovely place to live.

Matt is another character I really liked. He was Steve’s best friend and was with him when he died. He is on hand to help and is a great support to Annie. She values his friendship highly.

Despite many comments regarding her dating again, Annie doesn’t feel ready for men. She wants to focus on her school for now and just enjoy her skiing. That is until she meets Alessandro. He seems perfect and she enjoys his company. Could he be the one or has her next truelove been under her nose all along?

What Happens In The Alps…. is a lovely, easy to read romance set in beautiful Italy. Skiing doesn’t appeal to me in the slightest, but I could totally imagine sitting with a coffee / hot chocolate and a book whilst admiring the views, which are described beautifully.

I would highly recommend to anyone who likes a good romance with lovable characters. I have to say Leo was one of my favourite characters!

With many thanks to the publisher, author and Netgalley for my advance kindle copy.

You can pre-order your copy HERE

Book description –

A sparkling romantic comedy guaranteed to beat the winter blues, What Happens in the Alps… is one story you don’t want miss in 2016!

Up in the magical, snow-kissed mountains…

Two years ago, Annie Brewer’s life was turned upside down when her adrenaline-junkie husband died in a tragic climbing accident. So she’s hoping that moving to the beautiful village of Santorso in the Italian Alps will finally put her life back on track!

…anything can happen!

She might be going into business with her oldest friend – notorious lady-charmer Matt Brown – but men are definitely out of the question for Annie! That is, until she bumps into tall, dark and delicious Alessandro Lago on the ski slopes…and spontaneously says ‘Yes’ to a date!

It must be the crisp, mountain air but suddenly, anything seems possible. The only trouble is, chivalrous Matt is looking more gorgeous than ever…

What reviewers are saying about T A Williams –

‘T. A. Williams has that gorgeous way of writing a feel good story and something which will easily make you smile…he’s absolutely backed up that men can write chick-lit.’ ─ Reviewed The Book (TOP 1000 Amazon Reviewer)

‘When Alice met Danny is maybe the first book in this genre I have read that is written by a man, and T. A. Williams has done a splendid job!’ ─ Rachale’s Reads

‘I have read others of the author’s books and have loved them equally. I wanted to jet off to join them and I bet you will too…Great characters, a fun and enjoyable read that will leave you with a big smile on your face.’ ─ Jilllovestoread

‘I had my doubts as to whether a ‘bloke’ would get it! To get beneath the skin of a woman and process how she’d feel in various scenario’s. Let’s just say I don’t have any longer – Trevor you nailed it.’ ─ Crooksonbooks

About the author –

Firstly, my name isn’t T A. It’s Trevor. I write under the androgynous name T A Williams because 65% of books are read by women. In my first book, “Dirty Minds” one of the (female) characters suggests the imbalance is due to the fact that men spend too much time getting drunk and watching football. I couldn’t possibly comment. Ask my wife…
I’ve written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I’m enjoying myself hugely writing humour and romance. Romantic comedies are what we all need from time to time. Life isn’t always very fair. It isn’t always a lot of fun, but when it is, we need to embrace it. If my books can put a smile on your face and maybe give your heartstrings a tug, then I know I’ve done my job.
I’ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I’ve been writing since I was 14 and that is half a century ago. However, underneath this bald, wrinkly exterior, there beats the heart of a youngster. My wife is convinced I will never grow up. I hope she’s right.

Today I’m delighted to welcome an author local to me, John Pye.

For those who don’t know already, could you tell us about yourself and your books please?

Hi, I am John Pye, a retired Detective formerly with Staffs Police and now swiftly approaching my 66th birthday. Writing has been both my passion and my hobby since retirement and my career as a police officer was without doubt the motivating force behind this. Of course I didn’t realise when I joined the force just how much written work was involved and as an eleven plus failure it was a big learning curve.

It wasn’t until I finally came to hang up my handcuffs some 27 years later that I realised that I’d become quite adept at writing and actually enjoyed it. I’ve always had a passion for history and so initially I completed a few articles for the local newspaper’s ‘The Way We Were’ supplement – these were published and I realised that I had been bitten by the writing bug!

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

I started to work on a mostly humorous account of my police service and I ‘self-published’ this in paperback form. But the learning curve was still ‘curving’ as it cost me a small fortune and with all the promoting also being down to me there was little chance of the book ever becoming widely read.

With many lessons learned, but never disheartened, I wrote my first novel (Cathedral of Lies). I soon gained an insight into the world of ‘proper’ publishing when I realised how difficult it is for a new unknown writer to become noticed. Those publishers’ gates were all firmly closed – there was simply no way in. My manuscripts were returned unread on countless occasions and I’d already learned that there was no future in self-publication – I’d certainly got the Tee shirt on that one!

I was lucky enough to have a chat with another local author, Mel Sherratt and the story she told me put me onto a different course. Mel had started out by publishing on kindle (ebooks) – YES, kindle is another form of self-publishing, but ‘Indie’ – independent publishing costs the author absolutely nothing. There are no printing costs and you instantly have a world-wide market, although promoting your books will be down to you (mostly through social media). Mel had done well from kindle and her style and prolific output had got her noticed by the people behind the gates (the publishers) and the rest was history for her! It’s a good lesson for many disheartened authors – keep at it and maybe your work will get noticed.

My first novel ‘Cathedral of Lies’ is a crime thriller… what else from a retired detective? I pounded away at my computer keyboard for a long time with strange ideas and odd characters which constantly morphed from one form into another along with an ever changing storyline before suddenly, overnight, the story began to take shape and evolve into a complex and interesting ‘search for the truth’.

I found myself researching bizarre real life events for inspiration until I hit upon a fascinating true tale which I was able to hinge the entire story upon. This real life unsolved crime became so interesting to me that it generated the excuse for a four day trip to Belgium with my wife for more of that ‘research’.

As the story really started to take on some shape and evolve into what it became I was able to begin to tweak and alter. I’m sure this is when my own style started to develop and my flair for adding twist and turns and creating suspense developed. Keeping the readers on the edge of their seats will also keep them turning the pages. I found my comfort zone when dealing with police procedure and so was confident of a good degree of authenticity.

My second crime novel ‘Field of Lies’ is of course number two in that series. It is well liked by readers and has accrued plenty of super reviews. Once again I used a real life event as an inspiration for the tale.

I have also published a kindle story entitled ‘The vampire of The Villas’. It’s a short but true (dramatized) tale of something that happened to me as a young copper years ago.

Where did/do you get your ideas from?

Looking back on my time as a police officer I realise that it was often the black humour and mischievous antics which helped to get us though some tricky and unpleasant events. That rascally mind-set has always stayed with me and often comes to the surface in my writing. An impromptu comedy scene occasionally appears in the midst of a serious setting (this was always so true to life).

Are any of your characters based (however loosely) on anyone you know and how do you pick your character’s names?

During my police service I regularly found myself in all manner of awkward situations engaging with a variety of strange, odd and unpleasant people as well as a plethora of wonderful helpful folk. Consequently I tend to model characters upon former colleagues as well as criminals and casual acquaintances. My choice of names for these individuals stems from a mix of real life names – a jumble of Christian names and surnames. The occasional scan through the phone directory can also provide a great ‘handle’ for a new character. I feel however, that it is important to try to stay close to the real world – it might seem like a good idea at the time to give your main ‘action man or woman’ a flashy name but it can be a turn off for the reader if it’s too improbable.

Do you have a favourite author?

I love Ian Rankin’s Inspector Rebus books and readily identify with the reality he creates. I also love Frederick Forsyth and Joanne Harris as great authors.

Were you a big reader as a child?

I did not read that much as a child and spent most of my time at school fooling about and playing sport, although when I look back I did have a bit of flair for English and loved essay writing.

What are you working on right now?

I have just released (on kindle) a completely re-written version of my original paperback account of my police service. I thought it would be a simple straight forward job to do this, but found that my first attempt needed so much ‘tweaking’ that it took nearly 12 months to get it right. The book is a complete divergence from crime thrillers and is titled ‘The Nick of Time’. If you get the chance to give it a try I’m fairly confident that it will make you laugh and maybe even cry a little!

When can we look forward to a new release?

Several things have kept me back from getting on with number three in the ‘Of lies’ DI Doug Taylor series, but finally I can say that I have started. Sadly I suspect that it may be early 2017 before it’s done, but if I get properly into gear perhaps a bit sooner.

John has a Facebook page for his ‘of lies’ series HERE. I’m sure he would appreciate a like 🙂

Book links:

Cathedral Of Lies

My little review on Amazon, back when I didn’t elaborate much:

This grabbed my attention from the very start. It’s very fast paced with lots of twists and turns. Very well written with interesting characters. I look forward to the sequel John!

Field Of Lies

I really need to bump this up my TBR list!

Vampire Of The Villas

My review from October 2013:

This is a very interesting story about a case I knew nothing about previously. It did happen before my time though!
As I am from Stoke-on-Trent, (well, Newcastle-under-Lyme) I enjoyed learning about this little piece of local history and will be interested in finding out if any of my older relatives remember anything about it.

The Nick Of Time

This is also on my TBR list.

You can follow John on Twitter @CathedralOfLies

Also, check out his website cathedraloflies.com

Many thanks for joining me on my blog, John.

Publisher: Corvus (3rd March 2016)

5/5*

WOW!

First of all, what a cracking opening chapter! I can’t imagine anyone reading it and deciding not to continue. I read this book in 6 days, which is quick for me. This is partly due to spending Friday in London, eating lunch in Costa and lounging around the Washington Mayfair hotel whilst my husband was at a work luncheon, but I don’t think it would have taken me much longer to read had I been at home with my usual distractions.

Sophie Gardener is about to turn 40. She wakes at 2am to find an intruder in her bedroom. If this wasn’t terrifying enough, he puts a letter on her bedside table with strict instructions to open it at her 40^th Birthday party the following evening. He knows of her family (he has pictures and everything as proof) and threatens their safety should she not follow these instructions exactly. He has clearly been hired by someone she knows, but who would hate her enough to send such a threat?

This book is described as a ‘fast-paced, gripping psychological thriller’ and I think this is a very accurate description. Unputdownable is another word I would use, even though it’s not a real word! I just had to find out who had sent this letter to Sophie and why it was so important that she read it at precisely 8pm, at her 40^th Birthday party. It turns out it was to be much more than a Birthday party, but I won’t say more than that as I don’t want to spoil it for anyone.

Needless to say I would recommend this to everyone. An easy 5 stars for me.

I won my paperback copy via a giveaway Lucy Dawson held on her Facebook page. Many thanks to Lucy. I loved it!

You can buy your copy here – You Sent Me A Letter

Book description –

At 2 a.m. on the morning of her fortieth birthday, Sophie wakes to find an intruder in her bedroom. The stranger hands Sophie a letter and issues an threat: open the letter at her party that evening, in front of family and friends, at exactly 8 p.m., or those she loves will be in grave danger.

What can the letter possibly contain?

This will be no ordinary party; Sophie is not the only person keeping a secret about the evening ahead. When the clock strikes eight, the course of several people’s lives will be altered for ever.

About the author –

Lucy Dawson has had four books published in the UK, the first of which – His Other Lover – was a bestseller in 2008. Her fifth book will be published by Corvus in 2016. She lives in Exeter with her husband and children. Find out more at http://www.lucydawsonbooks.co.uk

Click here for Lucy Dawson’s Amazon author page

Published – 3rd March 2016

Publisher – Corvus

I am currently reading You Sent Me A Letter having been one of the lucky five to win a paperback copy via a giveaway on Lucy Dawson’s Facebook page. I am thoroughly enjoying it so far and would just like to wish Lucy a very Happy Publication Day!

Book description –

At 2 a.m. on the morning of her fortieth birthday, Sophie wakes to find an intruder in her bedroom. The stranger hands Sophie a letter and issues an threat: open the letter at her party that evening, in front of family and friends, at exactly 8 p.m., or those she loves will be in grave danger.

What can the letter possibly contain?

This will be no ordinary party; Sophie is not the only person keeping a secret about the evening ahead. When the clock strikes eight, the course of several people’s lives will be altered for ever.

You can buy your copy here You Sent Me A Letter

What reviewers are saying about You Sent Me A Letter –

A gripping read with an intriguing and unsettling mystery at its heart. It kept me guessing all the way through. I found it impossible to put down. –C.L. Taylor on You Sent Me a Letter
Kept me guessing until the very last page. –Erin Kelly on You Sent Me a Letter
You Sent Me A Letter grabs you by the throat in the first chapter and doesn’t let go throughout. I didn’t breathe the whole time I was reading! Lucy Dawson creates fantastically sympathetic and realistic characters and the reader is pulled along with them at breakneck speed. Compelling and wholly satisfying, I had chills by the end. This isn’t my first Dawson read and it certainly won’t be my last. Love love loved it. Recommended to simply everyone. –Jenny Blackhurst, author of How I Lost You
I’m not exaggerating when I say that this book gave me palpitations. Make sure you don’t have anything pressing to do, because once you pick it up there is absolutely no way you’ll be able to put it back down. –SJI Holliday on You Sent Me A Letter

A clever and compelling read –Freya North on The One that Got Away

About the author –

Lucy Dawson was a children’s magazine editor before she had her first bestselling book, His Other Lover, published in 2008. Since then she has published three other novels and her work has been translated into numerous languages. She lives in Exeter with her husband and children.

 I’m very excited to welcome Rita Brassington to my blog, for my first ever author Q&A. Thanks for joining me Rita.

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

Hi, I’m Rita Brassington and I’m an author based in Manchester. My book, The Good Kind of Bad, is a psychological thriller about a girl who hastily marries another man after leaving her fiancé at the altar, only to discover he’s been keeping secrets from her…

The Good Kind Of Bad is quite a unique story. Where did you get the idea from?

I was visiting friends in the Mid-West of America I’d met while studying at MCTS (Maastricht Centre for Transatlantic Studies). I remember sitting at the airport in St. Louis, looking up at the airport departures board, seeing a flight bound for Chicago and thought: ‘What would happen if you left your whole life behind and started again?’ It was only when I started piecing the main plot together I knew I had a great story – plot twists and all!

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

I think every character is based on someone, or a part of them, whether someone the author knows or a character from a soap or a film. They are mishmashes of character traits and interesting quirks from real people. That’s the interesting thing. You could base it on someone and they might not recognise themselves. I guess that’s what The Good Kind of Bad is fundamentally about – how much you believe, or think you believe, you know someone – even yourself. I have been asked if the main character, Mrs Petrozzi is based on me. Definitely not! I’m not that impulsive.

How do you pick your character’s names?

It’s quite random! It can be a name I hear on the television or inspired by something I’ve written or seen. I was watching an old Cary Grant film called The Grass is Greener. I already had a Victor in my book, (Cary Grant’s character’s name) so took surnames for some of my other characters too!

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

I don’t think a nutshell will cover it, seeing as it took me ten years from start to finish to publish The Good Kind of Bad. I wrote it in nine months, hurrying to get the story down, then left the manuscript for a number of years. It was only recently I decided to finally get the book out there. For me, it’s all about getting the story down and editing it later. As for ideas, I think up great plot twists or scenes in the shower, then forget it all! I try to take a notepad and pen with me everywhere I go, just in case.

Do you have a favourite author?

Sarra Manning is a definite favourite. Her books are the polar opposite of mine! I love the completeness of her writing, where she really delves deep into the little details of her characters lives; the clothes they wear, their taste in music. It subconsciously builds up a character.

Were you a big reader growing up?

I loved reading. I think if I hadn’t read so much when I was younger, I never would’ve begun writing. I don’t think one can come without the other. At the moment I’m spending far too much time reading than writing. As a child, our house was filled with books, mainly non-fiction. I remember collecting tokens from Weetabix boxes for Barbie clothes, but when they ran out, I was sent the Weetabix Book of Facts instead. I read it cover to cover. By the time the Barbie clothes came, I wasn’t that interested! The book helped my general knowledge at least. I’m really good at quizzes now. I can get at least five right on University Challenge on a good day.

When did you start to write?

My mum had a typewriter, on which I used to type little stories or dreams I’d had. I also kept a diary from about the age of eight. I always thought it was important to record who you were at a certain point in your life. When you read back, it’s almost like you’re a character yourself. I’m sure I’ve cringed looking back!

I know you now live in Manchester, but were born and raised in my home town, Stoke-on-Trent. Would you consider writing (or do you already have any plans to write) a book set in Stoke-on-Trent?

I’d written a TV drama script for a series based in Stoke, about a family dealing with the patriarch’s recent terminal diagnosis and how that brings one estranged daughter home. There are so many police procedural/supernatural/historical dramas on the box at the moment, but not much about the family without a more ‘sensational’ overriding theme. Family is full of drama, but comedy too. If anyone’s ever been to Stoke, the people are some of the warmest (and funniest) I’ve met. They are definitely the stars.

What are you working on right now?

I’ve begun slow progress on my second book. The next is set closer to home in Manchester, about a girl desperate for her dream job and will do anything to get it. When she meets a guy who promises her the world, things begin to turn nasty.

When can we look forward to a new release?

No timescales as of yet but am working on it!

How can readers keep in touch with you?

I’m on Twitter and Instagram @ritabrassington, on Facebook as Rita Brassington Author and on my website, www.ritabrassington.co.uk. It’s always lovely to hear what people think so get in touch!

 You can buy a copy of The Good Kind Of Bad here

If you haven’t already and would like to, you can read my review here

Thanks again Rita.