After several iterations, the colour of the jacket has been approved, so my new book is now at the printer.
The publication date is set for 13th January, and copies are available for pre-order here on the website. It has been a busy time since the first book in my new DI Miriam Abbott series was published because I’ve been moving to the Cotswolds to be nearer the family. It was a big decision to have to leave the Yorkshire Dales, but I travel back regularly and will continue to be inspired by the fells and moors in the National Park. Currently I am plotting my next book in the Dr Mills...
It was on 17th September 2005 that I was paralysed by Guillain Barre Syndrome, which meant spending many weeks in intensive care on a ventilator and further months in rehabilitation, learning to walk again.
For those who don’t know, GBS is a rare neurological disorder affecting 1 to 2 people per 100,000 worldwide each year, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms like tingling, weakness, and potential paralysis. Fortunately, I have made a full recovery, although I believe my balance still continues to improve through regular Pilates sessions.
I was taken ill after a very eventful week which saw the publication of my first...
There are always new places to research when I’m writing
The Herriot Way is a circular walk that starts in Wensleydale, passing through the picturesque villages of Aysgarth and Askrigg, before reaching Hawes and over into Swaledale. If you've read my 'Tracks in the Dark' you may remember the walk was an important part of the storyline. My latest book in the DI Miriam Abbott series, to be published later this year, is set further south, nearer to Bedale and Leyburn, so there are new places to research, including Jervaulx Abbey and...
It’s important to have some time away from the first draft of my crime novel
Guidance generally suggests leaving the draft of a manuscript for anything between a few days and a few months before beginning to edit. I find a week or two works for me. Because I reread and correct as I go along, my first draft is usually in pretty good shape with regard to the plot threads and characters. So, for me the first edit will not involve a major restructuring, but it does require detailed scrutiny to check the plot remains consistent throughout and there are no discrepancies...
Independent Bookshop Week takes place Saturday 14 - Saturday 21 June this year.
It aims to highlight the vital role independent bookshops play in their communities, and to encourage consumers to shop for their summer reads with their local independent. And it is an opportunity for me to celebrate the supportive independent bookshops we are so lucky to have in the Yorkshire Dales. So, a big shout out for The Stripey Badger, The Wonky Tree, Limestone Books and The Paper People Bookshops. They are run by enthusiastic owners who provide a brilliant service to readers...