Collaborative Writing

It’s a strange thing that nowadays it really is quite hard for a writer to go out on a limb and try something new. Some years ago I was on a panel talking with a friend when a member of the audience asked “Is there a natural end point to a series?” Phil Gooden, with masterful … Continue reading

Reviews on Amazon

I had to put up the last blog repost on Amazon ( here if you’re wondering) by my friend Jack because it just tickled me. I’ve had so many comments on books – it gets hard sometimes to keep a sense of humour. From the first “fan” letter that detailed 21 points of historical inaccuracy (he/she … Continue reading

Let me guess, you are perfect!!!

Let me guess, you are perfect!!!.   A heartfelt scream from a professional writer. Readers, please think before giving the bad review or single star ranking!

Poppies, Remembrance and Reflections.

I mentioned yesterday that my little boy was suffering over an essay he had to write. Well, he was grateful for me sitting down to help him (shortly after helping his big sister with her Compound Interest homeword) and, I’m glad to say that the end result of his labours was good. Mind you, I’m … Continue reading

Editing

It’s sad, but very true, that most people hate editing. I do myself. My son thinks that any form of writing is a scheme designed to torture little boys. He is bright, and his brain is perfectly capable of good work, but the simple fact is, he considers any form of writing to be a major … Continue reading

Conway Stewart Pens – RIP

It is always very sad to hear of an old friend who has disappeared. On Friday I learned that one of my real old friends has been closed. That lovely company, Conway Stewart, the specialist, luxury brand that made pens from precious metals, who supplied Rolls Royce and the Orient Express with exclusive pens, has … Continue reading

Tavistock Heritage Festival

I’ve banged on often enough about literary festivals and the ridiculous scam that they so often tend to be. As an author (I know, I’m repeating myself), I have to justify every festival or gathering I go to on its merits as a worthwhile marketing event or whether it’ll bring in more money than I … Continue reading