Yesterday I went for coffee with a friend, and she said something (kind of casually) that made my day and has kept me smiling, on-and-off, ever since. After asking how my writing was going, she went on to say: "Oh, and I really liked your last book (Chemical Light). Sometimes I can't put your books down, so I've had to stop reading them at night or I'd never get any sleep. I always want to read a couple more pages... Until I get to near the end, and then I try to limit myself to JUST a couple of pages, because I don't want it to end. "
Seriously?! How I just calmly said 'thank you, really glad you enjoyed it', instead of punching the air and doing a victory dance around the coffee shop, I'll never know.

I'd like to say 'Thank You' to every reader who has let me know that they've enjoyed my stories. As an author, hearing that is as good as it gets.

YOU keep me going.


BTW:  The Photo above was actually taken by Deb from Ewich House.  Deb and her husband, Ian, have always given my family and I a wonderfully warm welcome whenever we've stayed with them (so I can research a location such as Inchmahome Island).  SO if anyone reading this is going to Scotland and wanting a recommendation regarding accommodation, please take a look at their website:  EWICH HOUSE B&B

As many of you will know, the first book in 'The Lifelight Series' is published by 'WeBook' and available through their book store (as well as everywhere else) in ebook, paperback and hardback formats.

This edition of Lifelights also includes the prequel novella 'Hunting Light' (not available in print anywhere else) and 'for one week only', WeBook have included it in their book store wide SALE.

So if you haven't got your copy of 'Lifelights' yet, here's a chance to purchase this and other titles at bargain prices!

Happy reading!

June was a month of ups and downs for me, but the greatest of the 'downs' was the death of Joan Alam, the lady who copy-edited three of my books (21st Century Light, Hunting Light and Chemical Light) and with whom I could 'talk for England' about my work, nature, travel and life's experiences.

Joan was an incredibly intelligent lady, who could be brusque in manner at times, but still had a heart of gold. She also had an eye for detail, and carried out proof-reading for the Oxford University Press on occasion.  Multilingual and well traveled, she used the knowledge she'd gained to help others and stood up for what she felt was important. She supported charities through her volunteer work, and always went that 'extra mile' for those she cared for. She was truly a lady with 'hidden depths'.

I will miss her... and I'm pleased that the last book that Joan worked on, 'Chemical Light', is dedicated to such a special lady. Cancer is a terrible disease, and 63 years is no age at all.  Rest In Peace, my friend, and 'Thank You' for enjoying my stories.