When I originally wrote the second book of the Haven Chronicles, I envisioned a very different ending to the one that appeared in the published novel. It was darker, more isolating for the main characters, and left readers guessing how Steve and the darkling could possibly escape to safety. I Read more
Do you ever find yourself browsing endless fantasy book lists and shelves, unsure of what to read next? Should you choose dragons, wizards, chosen ones, or epic quests? Are you more of a medieval castle fantasy reader or do you prefer urban battlegrounds? That book choice overwhelm can easily stop Read more
Haven’s Deceit, the third instalment in my YA futuristic fantasy series, was published on 21st November by Burning Chair. There’s something very satisfying about having a trilogy of books out in the big, wide world. Just look at that line-up. Several people have asked if this is the end of Read more
There’s only one week to go – that’s seven sleeps – until Haven’s Deceit is published by Burning Chair on 21st November. This past month has gone by in an exciting blur. My author copies have come in. ARC reader copies have gone out. I’ve been talking about Haven’s Deceit Read more
With the third instalment of the Haven Chronicles YA fantasy series well on the way, I thought it was time to reintroduce the books so far. Oh, and drop a couple of hints about what you’ll discover in book three too.
There’s a long-standing tradition of romance playing a part in adventure storylines. Whether it’s the chivalry of King Arthur’s court or the love between Rose and the Doctor in Doctor Who, romance is often key to creating a rich and enjoyable plot. Done well, it can provide character depth or Read more
“That was easier than I thought,” said Babs. “Too easy,” said Sheila. “He won’t be a happy chappie,” said Constance. “I don’t think he really does happy,” said Gwen. The Graveyard Tap sat, unsurprisingly, on the border of a graveyard. From there the main road in town led up to Read more
“Expecting someone?” Sally handed out plates of food from the trolley. “Chicken drumsticks?” “That’s for me, dear,” said Babs. “We’re not expecting anyone, no.” “Meat pie?” “Me please,” said Constance. “Here you are. That gentleman by the bar’s been watching you all. Don’t you think he looks dapper? Or maybe Read more
“Here they come. Seven pm on the dot.” Harold, landlord of the Graveyard Tap public house, nodded to the four elderly women as they sauntered in. “They’re not regulars.” Sally finished pulling a pint of ale. “They’re here every Halloween,” he said. “We always reserve the table by the fire Read more
I’m one of those authors who likes to prepare as much as possible before I begin to work on a new novel. One aspect of that preparation is plenty of research. You might think that because I write fantasy stories, the whole concept will be born from my imagination but Read more