Tag: friends

Life · Self-publishing · Uncategorized

West Midlands Book Signing Author Interview: T L Wainwright

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TL Wainwright.jpg

 

    1. Can we start with your name and where you’re from?
      T.L Wainwright (Trace) I live in Leeds, West Yorkshire
    2. Most authors love reading, is this true for you and if so who was/is your inspiration?
       I love reading, I adore being able to escape to some other time and place. Inspirations, too many to list but modern day, Helena Hunting, Debra Anastasia, Emma Hart and JA Huss are just a few that come to mind.
    3. What genre do you write in or do you cross over into many?
      I wright Adult Romance, Humour, Erotica. I may dip my toe into others in the future.
    4. If you could take any character from someone else’s book and make him/her your own creation who would it be and why?
      Neville Longbottom from the Potter books. It would be set when he’s all grown up and he’d be a bit of a bad boy. Well, have you seen him recently? Peks, Abs and everything.
    5. When did you first start writing?
       April 2015 out of the blue.
    6. Do you plan every inch of your books or do you just let the words flow?
      I have an idea but then I fly by the seat of my pants.
    7. Who is your favourite character and why? (your own character)
       Isaac was my first and you know what they say… Your first love is the deepest. He’s also hot as hell with tattoos and a regal piercing.
    8. Was there an event in your life that triggered a particular book, or even a scene in a book? If so what was the book and what was the event?
      Ahh! That would be telling.
    9. Are you working on anything at the moment? If so can you share any tasty morsels? 
      My WIP is very nearly done. It’s a spin off from one of my other books. The title is Tomek – saving angels. Here’s the short version of the blurb….                                    I’m a soldier, but not in the way you may think. I work for a man who people akin to the devil. My orders? Anything from inflicting a hard beating, to torture that will undoubtedly lead to a painful death. Failing is not an option and I learnt years ago to keep my thoughts and emotions to myself.
      Do I choose to live this life? The question is irrelevant, because from being a small boy living in Poland, to where I am now in England, this is all I have ever known.
      Then she changed everything.
      If someone walks into your life when you least expect it, changing your whole perspective, despite the inevitable risk. Would you take the chance, when potentially they could end up being your saviour?
      But then again… who exactly is saving who?
      Piece of advice…  
      Write what you want to write and not what you think they want to read. Be true to yourself. Remember, you’ll never be everyone’s cup of tea.             

      10. What one piece of advice would you give to someone starting out?
       Have faith in yourself and do it. It’s bloody amazing.

      11.What do you do when you’re not writing?
      Day job as an Export Manager or reading.

      12. What is the hardest part of the whole writing, editing, marketing process for you? Everything. I’m still learning new stuff as I go along. It’s like on the job training.

      13.We all have those friends or family members who make sweeping statements about our writing or the process, which is your particular bug bear?
       ‘IS IT LIKE FIFTY SHADES?’ My response, I wouldn’t know because I haven’t read it.

      14. What is your idea of happiness?
      A happy, healthy Family. In book world? Giving up my day job so I can do this full time. Isn’t that everyone’s?

      15. For this one I want you to showcase your creativity by painting me a picture, with words, of your ideal setting to write in.
      Hotel patio/balcony, blue skies, good laptop, glass of rose, beach view, hot men, volleyball…

      16. What makes you laugh/cry?
       Awkward situations. Soppy romance.

      17. You’re stranded on a desert island and you can take three men/women who would they be and why? This can be practical or purely sexual in nature.
      Debra Anastasia because she just cracks me up. KL Shandwick to I can milk her for all her knowledge on writing. Franggy Yanes because he’s a fabulous photographer and I’m so not photogenic. He’s also one sexy dude, eye candy.

      18. What is your most annoying habit?
       Interrupting people. The thing is, I hate it but still bloody do it. My excuse is that if I don’t, I’ll forget what I wanted to say.

      19. Please tell me about your books? For each one please send a pic (kindle cover would be perfect)  see below….

      My first book Naughty But Rice (Free to download) was released in July 2015 with part 2, Rice Back At You! (99p) in August 2015…
      When 26-year-old Amy Reed’s promotion sends her down to London, she gets a lot more than she bargains for. The hot American she meets in the hotel bar, is more than willing to show her exactly what sexploits she’s been missing for the past few years, but will she give into temptation…

      Amy

      Looking up and meeting his eyes, I can see that his pupils are dilated, and I inadvertently bite my lower lip, unable to look away. He moves in even closer, as his hand takes the back of my neck, pulling me to him and his tongue licks gently across my lips.

      “I have wanted to do that since the first time I saw you,” he says softly.

      Isaac

      She’s not the usual tall, leggy, over confident business women that normally catches my attention, but a small, curvy, soft, skittish vision, with the most fantastic rack. Even though covered with the fabric of her blouse, you could see she had amazing tits, almost fighting to escape the cloth, as her chest moved, while trying to catch her breath.

      I could tell she was shy, so I was planning to move carefully but then she fell into my lap. Literally!

      Her touch made my body react instantly and I struggled to control my twitching cock. When I walked her to her room, I just couldn’t keep my hands off her.

      I want her.

      The question is, will Amy be able to refuse him?
      NAUGHTY BUT RICE Part 1/2 (REED AND RICE SERIES)
      UK Link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0117XJOEQ

      US Link: http://amzn.com/B0117XJOEQ

      AU Link: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0117XJOEQ

      https://itun.es/gb/KnPQ8.l
      RICE BACK AT YOU! Part 2/2 (REED AND RICE SERIES) 
      UK Link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0139T215U

      US Link: http://amzn.com/B0139T215U

      AU Link: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0139T215U

      https://itun.es/gb/iJfi9.l

      A Hole Lotto Loving  (99p to download) is a cheeky little novella. October, 2015
      Lynnie is a 40 years’ young, single, divorcee who comes into a humongous amount of money.  After a lot of persuasion from her best friend Shelley, she decides to place an ad, interview and hire a younger man for errmm… Fun!
      “I can’t believe it!” I sit in front of my laptop, stunned. “48 replies. This is madness. What the hell are we going to do?”

      “First of all, you need to take some deep breaths or you’re going to hyperventilate,” Shelley chuckles. “We go through them first and weed out the weirdos. Like this one. Has 15 cats and 6 budgies.”

      “I like cats,” I mumble.

      “Yes, but not bloody 15. Just think of the smell, along with the 6 budgies. Bleurrh! No that’s a definite delete. No, no, no. 45 too old, we want younger, delete. Eew! No way he drives a Reliant Robin, who the hell drivers a Reliant Robin in this day and age. I didn’t think there were any left. Hasn’t he heard of a Smart Car?”

      “Oh my God, maybe we should have asked for photos,” I mumble nervously, taking an extremely large gulp of my Rose wine, and even consider just swigging it straight from the bottle.

      “You’re the one who said no photos,” Shelley laughs. “All that crap about ‘It’s personality that counts.’ I call bullshit! You need someone that’s going to get your pulse racing, a hottie that’s easy on the eye.”

      “They can look like Gerard Butler, but if they are as boring as a Tupperware convention, then they ain’t gonna be a turn on.”

      “True. No way! 78 years’ young, who’s he trying to kid. Bless him. D-e-lete. What about this one? Clint HARD, that sound promising. 33, lives in Harrogate, likes fine wine, fine food and only the best in everything. Mmm classy dude. Print.”
      A HOLE LOTTO LOVING  –  Available now for only 99p/99c
      UK Link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B016H15OQA

      US Link: http://amzn.com/B016H15OQA

      AU Link: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B016H15OQA

      https://itun.es/gb/dWEeab.l

      *** On sale soon on run up to release of Tomek. TBA ***

      DEACON. SOLDIER. FIGHTER. JACKass! Went live in 14th Feb 16.

      Here comes the blurb:-
      When Tessa Walker stumbles upon a beat-up lump of muscle in a dark alley, against her better judgement she doesn’t walk away. The obnoxious, foul mouthed, jackass does nothing but piss her off from the get go. It’s not until she cleans up some of the blood and shit from his face while he’s sparked out, that she realises he’s a blast from her past.

      ‘Jack Deacon, cock of the school, every girl’s wet dream and utter arsehole. He was the most arrogant git all the way through high school, so full of himself he was overflowing, but for some reason everybody loved him. I was no exception.’

      ‘He was my secret crush, the one that I compared every other guy to. Nobody ever came anywhere near. Yet here he is, right in front of me, and he doesn’t have a clue.’

      “What’s your story?”
      After leaving the army, Jack Deacon’s life has gone from shit to bone. Running up debts from gambling, owing money to the wrong people. All in an attempt to dampen down the continuous re-run of events in his head, and the feelings of guilt in his gut. When he wakes up battered and bruised on some chick’s sofa, he knows exactly who she is.

      ‘Tessa Walker, the specky geek with the bright sparkling eyes the colour of cognac and the most spectacular tits. Oh how I’d fantasised about those tits, taking one in each hand and burying my face right in the middle of them. Many a night I’d wanked with that vision in my head.’

      ‘I bet she’s wondering what this is all about. It’s none of her f**king business, I ain’t telling her shit.’

      But hell! This is just the beginning…
      Available now only £2.99.

      DEACON. SOLDIER. FIGHTER. JACKass!
      UK Link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01BKU8YAQ

      US Link: http://amzn.com/B01BKU8YAQ

      AU Link: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01BKU8YAQ

      https://itun.es/gb/N4IHab.l https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29091480?source=ebfg_email

      Dream F*#ks And Hard Drives was released in July 2016

      My latest book started off as a quick office romance novella but while writing it, turned into something, well, a little less conventional. Here’s the blurb…
      My names Imogen Lovell and there are currently five things that are relevant in my life.

      1. Job – Enjoyable.
      2. Family – Parents can be a little embarrassing. The rest of them, pfft!
      3. Friends – Limited, but I have two of the very best, Libby and Henry.
      4. Sleeping issues – Erotic and sexually heated dreams, causing disruption to normal sleep pattern.
      5. Sex Life – In reality… none existent (please see item 4 for further clarification).

      At least there was only five, until Finn Burke came to work at my employers on a short-term contract.

      He’s an arrogant arsehole with the body of a Facebook hot hunk posting. I loathed him from the moment I saw him, with his egotistic, la-dee-da attitude. Looking down his nose and trying his best to humiliate me. I will not be the butt of his jokes.

      I feel a throat punch coming on!

      So, if I dislike him so much, then why has the faceless man in my dreams morphed into him?

      I need to add an additional data entry…

      1. Finn Burke – Kill him or shag him?

      Believe me when I say…This is not your typical office romance!
      Dream F*#ks And Hard Drives 
      by T.L Wainwright 
      Link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01HVYOUIK

      http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HVYOUIK

      http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01HVYOUIK

      https://itun.es/gb/tBZzdb.l

      https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/dream-f-k-s-and-hard-drives

      http://www.barnesandnoble.com/mobile/w/books/1124065617?ean=2940153382173
      I’ve been involved with two anthology.
      Doctrine of Indecency. 18 Coveted Tales of Lust. (Free to download)

      18 Authors. 18 short stories. An eclectic mix of erotica, all having one thing in common. They’re a hell of a sexy read.

      Where else would you find tales of vampires, aliens, ménage a trois and a baseball player in a sex club? Not forgetting my own little offering called Fruit, Veg and Starfish. It’s amazing what can happen in the fresh produce aisle at your local grocery store. All in one fantastic book.

      BONUS it’s free to download. So, what you waiting for…

      UK Link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01E1QW4W0

      US Link: http://amzn.com/B01E1QW4W0

      https://itun.es/gb/um60bb.l

      http://www.barnesandnoble.com/mobile/w/doctrine-of-indecency-kyle-perkins/1123648567?ean=2940153189666

      Love, Lust and Scary Monsters. An Anthology in aid of Muscular Dystrophy (£1.99) December, 2016

      9 different short stories. A mixed bag of Romance, Suspense and Horror. Pretty much what it says on the tin.

      Annabeth Johnson – B. Sharpe- Author – Eden Rose – Author Ellie Williams – Jess Sims Author – J G Clay – Author Kari Holloway – Author Katie Mayo-Jackson & T.L Wainwright

      #MuscularDystrophy #LoveLustAndScaryMonstersAnthology #Anthology #LLSMMDAnthology #MerryChristmas
      UK: https://goo.gl/sFUIe7

      US: https://goo.gl/UmMonL

      CA: https://goo.gl/6xrkib

      AU: https://goo.gl/3Qz15S
      Why not like our page. Author info, teasers and lots of other stuff.

      https://www.facebook.com/LLSMMDAnthology/

 

20. Lightning round

Tea or Coffee? Coffee
Cash or credit? Credit
Cats or Dogs? Cats
Beach or Mountain? Beach
Summer or Winter  Summer
Sweet or Savoury   Savoury (Cheese)
Early riser or late riser? Early
Morning or Night? If you’re talking sex, any time.
Christmas Tree – real or fake? On a Christmas Card.
Sex – Lights on or off? Subtle lighting

Thank you very much for taking the time to answer these questions.
Please leave Facebook, Twitter, Website links so we can check you out further.

 

Feel free to check me out, stalk or even PM me. You can find me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

FB Author page (you’ll find a book role call showing all my links there too.)

https://m.facebook.com/TL-Wainwright-137891269903535/?ref=bookmarks

Amazon Author page:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/T.L-Wainwright/e/B012PBC6GC

Twitter:  @wainwright_tl

Instagram: wainwright.tl

Email: ttdwainwright@gmail.com

Books · Christmas · Self-publishing · Uncategorized

West Midlands Valentine Book Signing Attending Author: Chris Turnbull

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Chris.png

 

  1. Can we start with your name and where you’re from?

Chris Turnbull, and I live near York.

  1. Most authors love reading, is this true for you and if so who was/is your inspiration?

I love reading, being swept up into a new world by an author can be so incredible. I like to feel drawn into the book, I want to feel for the characters and go on the journey they are. As a youngster I was addicted to the Goosebump books by RL Stine, then later got hooked onto the Harry Potter series which was the main reason I wanted to write a book of my own.

  1. What genre do you write in or do you cross over into many?

Although my books are seen by many as being very different, often described as (historical fiction, gothic, time-travel and of course I now have a children’s book) I do not see them all as being so different. I am a huge nerd when it comes to history, I love learning new things about the past and all my books are set somewhere in history that I find to be of interest. Whether it be 1889 Paris, the year the Eiffel tower opened, or just Victorian England. My books allow me to explore life in these times, learn and explore new things. My books also connect together with Love, whether that be the love of a partner, a family member or a friend. 

  1. If you could take any character from someone else’s book and make him/her your own creation who would it be and why?

I think without a doubt I would have loved to have created Albus Dumbledore. He is exactly the kind of character that I love. He is the father figure to Harry, a respected man, a humble man, and not to mention he can kick ass when needs be.

  1. When did you first start writing?

I started writing when I was a teenager; I had an English teacher at the time that really inspired me to be creative. She did not tell you things were wrong and allowed you to express your creative side. Sadly she left the school after only one year and I was devastated, as her replacement was all about sticking to textbook work. Thankfully though I continued to write for fun in my spare time, and it was in 2013 that I started work on ‘The Vintage Coat’ which ended up being my first published work. 

  1. Do you plan every inch of your books or do you just let the words flow?

I give myself bullet points of things I would like to see happen. I also create character profiles so I know a little bit more about the people I am writing about. Then I just go with the flow and see where the story takes me. I find this way of writing keeps me excited, as I want to find out what happens next. My theory is if the story excites me, then hopefully it should the reader.

  1. Who is your favourite character and why? (your own character)

Ooo that’s difficult to pick only one. I think I would choose Charlie from ‘The Vintage Coat’. He is a fun guy, loyal friend and I think I could be friends with him.

My second choice would be Tom from ‘Whitby’s Darkest Secret’ because I think he is adorable and a strong willed young man.

  1. Was there an event in your life that triggered a particular book, or even a scene in a book? If so what was the book and what was the event?

‘The Vintage Coat’ is based purely on a military coat I purchased in an antique shop in Alston. It immediately sparked my imagination and out came a time-travel story about the coat, and also set in Alston.

Also my children’s book ‘A Home For Emy’ is based on true events as this is the story of my own dog.

  1. Are you working on anything at the moment? If so can you share any tasty morsels?

I am currently working on a number of projects, the first being a sequel to ‘Whiby’s Darkest Secret’. I am having so much fun writing this book, and fans of the first book will be very surprised with the turn of events this new book takes.

Also I have been working on a Christmas themed book which I hope to release at the end of 2017. This is a collection of short stories and poems that I have enjoyed writing over the course of a number of years.

Finally (or at least what I will tell you for now) I have begun work on a second children’s book, it again will feature Emy and I hope to release it in early 2018.

  1. What one piece of advice would you give to someone starting out?

Don’t give up. Don’t follow the crowd.

I was always told that I needed to read and write every day, but for me (as well as most authors) I work full time. Sometimes I just need an evening off from writing and rest. I work better when I am not tired, so I would always say work at your own pace and do what is best for you. 

  1. What do you do when you’re not writing?

I love to travel, whether that is a day out to the coast or a holiday somewhere exciting. Me and my partner have a dog which we love to spend time with.

  1. What is the hardest part of the whole writing, editing, marketing process for you?

Personally I don’t think there is an easy part. The whole process is very demanding if you wish to succeed. Being a writer is a full time job in itself and you have to go through it all, the good and bad bits. I love being in my office and writing, knowing there is no pressure and being able to just write what comes to me. Editing is never fun, and you go over the manuscript so many times you start to fall out of love with your work. However all the hard work is worth it when you finally have a copy in your hand…and even better is when somebody else tells you they like it.

  1. We all have those friends or family members who make sweeping statements about our writing or the process, which is your particular bug bear?

After the release of my first book I had quite a few people ask me if they were going to get a free copy…erm No! There is no such thing as a free copy…even I don’t get a free copy and it’s my book.

Then you get those who say ‘I don’t know how you find the time to write a book’. These are usually the people who spend their evenings watching every single soap on TV, as well as other mindless television programs. Please note I have nothing against watching things you enjoy…I do it myself, but don’t spend every day of your life sat in front of the television and then question how I find time to write.

  1. What is your idea of happiness?

Spending time with the ones I love. You don’t need a lot of money, or ‘things’ to be happy. Some of my best moments have been the simple one. Walking on the beach with my dog, sitting in the garden with my family, playing a silly game with my best friend and her family. These are the things that I remember more than anything.

  1. For this one I want you to showcase your creativity by painting me a picture, with words, of your ideal setting to write in.

When I finished writing ‘Whiby’s Darkest Secret’ I decided that I wanted a spend a couple of nights away from home so I could focus on finishing the book…

I stayed in a two bed house in Whitby, the large oak wood dining table where I sat writing overlooked the harbour. I could hear seagulls and the sun was shining. In the morning I went for a walk, I soaked in the town atmosphere and even visited the ruined Abbey for the first time in my life. After a bit to eat I returned to the dining table, where my mind was freshly filled with the sounds and smells of the town I was writing about, and I even went back to change certain parts of the book. I sat there for hours until it got dark, the harbour lit up with a row of lights that lined the pathway. I finished the final few chapters that night. 

  1. What makes you laugh/cry?

Laugh: I have a very rude sense of humour…enough said.

Cry: Most things as I am an emotional wreck. The worse times though is when I am reading/watching something about a dog that is sick, hurt or dying. I read ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ on the aeroplane back from New York and I started to cry uncontrollably…and I mean really going for it, I couldn’t speak I was in such a state. The man next to me must of wondered what the hell was going on.

  1. You’re stranded on a desert island and you can take three men/women who would they be and why? This can be practical or purely sexual in nature.
  2. David Attenborough…My hero in life and somebody I would love to meet. Plus he would probably know how to survive the island.
  3. Joel Dommett – He was hilarious in ‘Celeb get me out of here’ so I think he would keep up entertained…plus he survived the jungle so I think he would help us survive an island.
  4. My other half, because I would miss him (and he could try and smuggle the dog with him).
  5. What is your most annoying habit?

Annoying…me?

I have a bad habit of zoning out if I am bored. Which is terrible when your other half tells you something important and you didn’t hear.

  1. Please tell me about your books? For each one please send a pic (kindle cover would be perfect)
  2. The Vintage Coat: A time-travel story set between modern day Alston and WWII.
  3. D: Whitby’s Darkest Secret: A dark murderous story set in the backdrop of Victorian Whitby.
  4. Carousel: Time-Travel tale. Jonathan is sent back to 1889 Paris, but unfortunately gets stuck there.
  5. A Home For Emy: Children’s book based on true events. Illustrated beautifully by Rebecca Sharp of Dasilvaline.

  6. Lightning round
    Tea or Coffee? Tea
    Cash or credit? I am really bad and almost never have cash on me
    Cats or Dogs? Dogs
    Beach or Mountain? Mountain
    Summer or Winter – Tough!…I love Winter fashion, but I prefer the warmth of summer
    Sweet or Savoury Sweet
    Early riser or late riser? Late
    Morning or Night? Night
    Christmas Tree – real or fake? Real
    Sex – Lights on or off? Who cares…

    Thank you very much for taking the time to answer these questions.
    Please leave Facebook, Twitter, Website links so we can check you out further.

www.chris-turnbullauthor.com

www.facebook.com/christurnbullauthor

www.twitter.com/christurnbull20

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chris-Turnbull/e/B00UFW8RB2/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

Books · Life · Uncategorized

West Midlands Valentine’s Book Signing

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I can’t wait to take part in this event. Tickets on #sale 50% discounted for a short time only. Check it out.

#Books #Books #Books

west mids.jpg

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

IT’S OUR LAST TICKET SALE!

50% OFF ALL TICKETS!

CODE: 50_OFF

Ticket Link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/west-midlands-valentines-boo…

February the 4th 2017 is set to be a day filled with books, romance, laughter, and live 1940’s style music all thanks to The West Midlands Valentines Book Signing & 1940’s Ball. With over 25 confirmed authors covering genres such as romance, chick-lit, erotica, young adult, horror, and children’s fiction, there is sure to be something here for you or your loved one just in time for Valentine’s Day. Or at least something to occupy the kids with.

When the door close to the signing at 16:30 we will be reopening them at 19:30 for our 1940’s swing ball where The Vintage Vocalist will take to the stage and take us back in time with classics from The Andrew Sisters, Vera Lynn, and Anne Shelton. (1940’s dress is very much encouraged).

So, why not come and mingle with the authors and get those books signed before joining us for a swing around the dancefloor?

ALL PROCEEDS MADE ARE BEING DONATED TO HELP FOR HEROES

West Midlands Book Signing.jpg

Books · Life · Self-publishing · Uncategorized

Goodbye 2016 – Hello 2017

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2016 has been on the whole a great year for me, there have been ups and downs but I can honestly say that it has been more positive than negative.

I started the year in one job where I wasn’t happy and in November got a new job which is in walking distance (three minutes door to door). Although I am still learning the ropes in this new field my stress levels are so much lower. I’m sleeping at night instead of waking up at ridiculous o’clock worrying what the next day will bring. My health had started to be affected by my job and now I feel as though I am getting back to where I was before. We spend so much time at work that its important that we enjoy it, when you realise that you are dreading it you know the time is ripe to move on.

I look forward to getting to know more about my new job in 2017 and feeling like I know what I’m doing. My previous role was in the motorcycle industry and I am moving into investment and acquisitions predominantly dealing with property and construction. I think this will keep me interested for a while to come.

In 2016 I was lucky enough to get some motorbike training on a 600cc motorbike from one of the instructors, Tony, who has also moved on to another company. In 2017 I hope to do some more training and hopefully take my full licence.

I was lucky enough to go on two fabulous holidays this year, in May I went to Portugal and in November the Dominican Republic. For anyone who knows me they will know that holidays are my main priority, foregoing many other things in order to get my fix of holidays. Each holiday gives me the chance to relax and unwind. I love to explore new areas and spend time reading and writing in the most beautiful of settings. I was very fortunate with the Dominican Republic holiday being upgraded from a 3* to 5* hotel with premium service. The room was bigger than my ground floor at home. I had a hot tub on the balcony which looked out over the sea which was lucky as they had unusual weather with 5 out of 10 days being solid rain. Needless to say I spend a lot time writing. During my time there I went on an adventure excursion which included a zip wire, this was quite a challenge for me as I hate heights but loved it so much that they allowed me a second turn.

I published another novelette this year, which I wrote for an anthology for the first UK Indie Lit Festival but decided to publish when I received such positive feedback on it. The festival was a blast and was a chance to meet up with the fantastic authors that I have been talking to online. We have now forged strong bonds and the support network is phenomenal in particular my friendship with Su Echo Falls S’ari (aka Rose English). We have formed a partnership for book signings and online parties, Roses & Dreams which goes from strength to strength.

In 2017 I have signed up for The West Midlands Book signing which is being held on 4th February and the UK Indie Lit Festival later on in the year, date to be confirmed.

My new book (novel) A Boy from the Streets is with my editor now and will be published as soon as is humanely possible. I am very excited about this book and can’t wait to share it with everyone.

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A few little teasers:

 

I have two more novels lining up for 2017 as well as about thirty other ideas in various different stages.

‘Is this Love?’ and the sequel ‘Illicit Love.’

Last but not least I have spent quality time with my family who are as always amazing, the biggest blessing in my life. I am proud of each and every one of them and look forward to spending time with them next year.

I look forward to seeing where 2017 will take me in all areas of my life.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous 2017.

 

Books · Life · Uncategorized

My Review of Literal Leigh by Melanie James

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http://amzn.to/2hyAZcP 

Oh wow this book made me howl out loud not only laugh out loud. I was lying on a beach in Portugal almost wetting myself, crying and working my abs as I laughed.
The characterisation is great in these books. I had to read them all but it did wane for me a little near the end of the series but still 5 star. I would call it a spoof witchcraft series. I will most definitely read more by this author.
Books · Christmas · Self-publishing · Uncategorized

Roses & Dreams online Christmas Party

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Rose English (Aka Su Echo Falls S’ari) and Maria Gibbs (me) are hosting an online book party on Sunday 18th December from 15:00 to 22:00 from the comfort of your own home.

Su will be showcasing her three beautiful books ‘The Magic of Grandfather Time’, ‘Rainbows & Roses’ and ‘Love Lost’ and I have it on good authority that there might be a surprise in store for everyone.

I will be showcasing my three novelettes also ‘As Dreams are Made on’ , ‘A Lifetime or a Season’ and ‘The Storm Creature’ but my main focus will be on my novel ‘A Boy from the Streets’ which will be released early next year. Towards the end of the night I will be revealing the exciting cover which was designed by JC Clarke from The Graphics Shed.

There will be games, a Grand Prize draw with fourteen different books by a multitude of authors, Guest appearances, virtual food and drink and hours of fun.

So come and join us, make this party viral, gate crashers welcome. Invite your friends.

**WARNING** Will contain books and not just a trace. So only come if you like books and fun.

**CHRISTMAS** Anyone who still doesn’t know what to get a loved one for Christmas will  find lots of options here with over Fifteen authors involved in this event

https://www.facebook.com/events/674185616093236/ 

Books · Life · Self-publishing · Uncategorized

Black Friday Book Sale

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Black Friday is a new thing in the UK but sales are not. We have historically always enjoyed the Boxing Day and New Year’s sales and the usual end of season bargains that can be picked up. Where this is different is that this is a ‘before’ sale, a month before Christmas giving everyone a chance to spend their hard-earned money and allowing it to go further. It can also be a chance to buy items that you would normally not have been able to afford, luxury items not part of the monthly budget. Either way we all love a bargain even for those of us who can’t stand the physical side of being in a rugby scrum environment.

As an author I also have a product to sell although it is a sad reflection on where we have come as a society and as an industry that many people believe that I should give it away for free. Let’s put aside for the moment all the long hours I have put into the writing, any research that I’ve undertaken and the agonising over characters that have a mind of their own. I have overheads when I publish whether that be via Amazon Kindle or Createspace print on demand which is available via Amazon.

The three books that I currently have on the market are short stories, novelettes and I have kept the kindle price down to 0.99 whether that be UK or US and any other country that it is feasible to have it at that price and that nets me a tiny profit per sale. The paperback copies are more expensive because print on demand is just that – you want a copy, a copy is printed and sent to you. The big publishing houses can lower prices because they print in bulk and all the retailers want the authors they represent. I haven’t gone down the route of approaching local shops as I don’t think the small books would be of interest to them, however I will look into this once I release my novels but I know this will involve me jumping through more hoops than an acrobat on a training session. The market is small for me and sales are pitiful but I get the most intense satisfaction out of each one. I filed my tax return for my writing and was able to declare a loss – which comes back to my overheads.

I have beautiful covers but they cost money, I am fortunate enough to have the services of a fabulous designer who doesn’t charge much, but £45.00 for one cover is still money I have paid out. I also need an editor (I tried to publish without one to start with I’m ashamed to say, but she has now polished all three for me) she also charges me for her service. Of course she does it’s a business and she needs to earn a living.  Lets call it approximately £40.00 for one novelette. So that is £85.00 that I have spent to package and make it acceptable to you the buying public.

I receive approximately £0.29 for each kindle copy I sell and slightly more for a print copy. In order for me to recoup the cost of my expenditure I have to sell 293 kindle copies or slightly less print. Remember that costing is per book. Between all three of my books I have sold a grand total in nearly two years of 240 copies. So I haven’t even reached the target to break even for one book out of the sales of three.

So when you think that an author should allow you to read their work for free think about the above. I love writing and my dream would be to be able to make a living from it instead of having to work a 40+ hour week to pay the bills and then write when I’m exhausted. I didn’t cover the endless hours of editing and formatting and promotion that goes into this role.

I would love to sell my books at their full price but if the wave of popularity for discounted (but not free) items helps me to sell a few more copies then I will sell the print copies for less for the Black Friday sales.

Why should you buy my work? I’m an unknown quantity and we all like to buy things we know will give us value for money and enjoyment. If we never try new things, read books by unknown authors then how do we know what we’re missing out on. We think nothing of buying a new flavour coffee at well-known coffee chains for £3.50. A short burst of pleasure and its gone, the same price for a book and you get a longer period of enjoyment and you can re-read it. How much do we pay for manicures and pedicures, to get our hair done? We don’t think twice about it because it gives us a feel good factor-so does a good book. You can curl up with it anywhere and it will take you out of your life and place you into the one that an author has created. What we pay for books isn’t a fortune, it isn’t that luxury item it’s affordable. If you want to buy from an unknown author like me, go to Amazon and you can read a sample to get the flavour of the writing.

For Black Friday only my paperback copies will be priced at £3.00/$4.00/€3.30.

Suitable for Christmas or Birthday stocking fillers

UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Maria-Gibbs/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

US: https://www.amazon.com/Maria-Gibbs/e/B00SDDJV1U/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0 

 

 

Books · Life · Self-publishing · Uncategorized

Hello 2016, Goodbye 2015

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As the year nears its end, we all take a little bit of time to reflect on our year and make plans or resolutions for the year ahead.

For those who have enjoyed a good 2015, their hopes are that 2016 will be just as kind and for those who have suffered through 2015 the hope is that 2016 will be a better one for them.

Earlier today I saw a friend on Facebook mention that it is in reality only passing from one day to another as it does every other day of the year. She mentioned that she set goals or resolutions throughout the year. She is correct, and I think we should all do that, but there is something about the idea of an ending and a beginning that we as a species tend to like. It feels as though you can package the previous year up in a box, gift wrap it, tie it with ribbon and consign it to the dusty realms marked as the past. As the clock chimes midnight signalling the beginning of a new year we take out a new box, all neatly wrapped up and inside is a blank journal that we will write our new experiences, joys and sorrows on. It seems exciting because we feel as though we can do anything, fill it with adventure. It lets us know that we still have hope and while we have hope we can achieve so much.

I have been blessed with a good year. In January, I self-published a short story and followed up with another short story in February. Since then I have been working on a number of projects all in various stages of completion. I have learnt to do things that I wouldn’t have dreamt possible, faced things that scared the bejeebers out of me. I have made some amazing friends that I have never met and may never meet. I have read books that have transported me to other worlds. I have been lucky enough to have gone on two holidays this year: Malta and Maldives. I have also experienced some personal sadnesses this year that I won’t dwell on. I also achieved a half-marathon and a whole day sponsored silence. I also am now the proud owner of a Honda CG125 motorbike which I love.

I would like to thank everyone who has been part of this year with me, those who have bought my books and kindly left me reviews. More than anything I would like to thank my family and friends who are always there when I need them.

2016 for me will be about pursuing my writing further, publishing my WIPs and hopefully getting some more sales.

So I will bid a fond farewell to 2015 and greet 2016 with open arms and a bottle of Prosecco 😉

Both of my books are on sale until the end of Friday 1st January 2016. If you are interested in making me smile on New Years Day then click & buy

🙂

As Dreams are Made on: myBook.to/Adamo

A Lifetime or a Season: myBook.to/ALifetime

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