Frequently Asked Questions
What are you currently working on?
I have just finished Growing In Damp Places (working title) and I am writing the sequel now. Also researching a book again set in Burton-upon-Trent, with links to the past. It features cows and old buildings. Watch this space or sign up to be the first to read it!
Will you review my book?
I read all the time when I'm not writing but there are only so many hours in the day, so I have to be selective. Also it is policy not to read books without a publishing deal from an established publisher in case I get accused of stealing ideas!
My preference is intelligent psychological fiction in ebook format. Presently, I am committed to reviewing books throughout the next year, so will not be taking on any new books until 2024.
My preference is intelligent psychological fiction in ebook format. Presently, I am committed to reviewing books throughout the next year, so will not be taking on any new books until 2024.
can i leave a post or link on your site?
We no longer run advertisements or promotions on the site, except for Waterstones or Amazon.
do you ever get WRITER'S block?
No, never (fingers crossed!) I put this down to having a very strict structure where I plan everything before I start writing. Sometimes I am stuck for ideas but it doesn't last long.
why did you choose the dark ages as the setting for some of your books?
The Early Medieval Period or Migration Period (as historians prefer these days) is fascinating for many reasons, one being that we don't know much about that time - so it's a blank canvas for authors. To see some of my featured articles (taken from my archived history blog) see A Brief Guide to the Dark Ages. Other favourite periods are early 20th century at the time of the Great War, and the 18th century at the time of the Enlightenment. These are periods I studied at university.
Who are your favourite authors?
Currently my favourites are Tana French, Imran Mahmood, Andrew Michael Hurley, Kazuo Ishiguro and Peter James. From the classics: Charles Dickens, William Shakespeare, Fyodor Doskeskvy, C.S. Lewis. But there are so many great writers out there I couldn't possibly list them all.
What kind of books do you read?
I read all kinds of books. In fiction I like anything that is well written and I have read books in all genres, but I like psychological fiction and unusual books the most. Anything that leaves me thinking after I have finished reading. I also read non-fiction, mostly history (a lot) and books about the natural world. See What I'm Reading for my current reads.
Do YOU TAKE PART IN ANY PERSONAL APPEARANCES OR TALKS?
Yes, I do. I like to visit book clubs and my last one was in Tamworth, but due to recent pandemic restrictions I haven't done one for a couple of years. If you are interested in me visiting your book club or bookish event, please contact me via the Contact page.
i'M WRITING A NOVEL. ANY TIPS?
Only two: write a lot and read a lot. Every day.
