An Exciting New Year Beckons

As I write this we stand on the cusp of a new year. As you read it the New Year will already have begun, in Scotland anyway. New Year is always a time for hope, looking to the future and wondering what the year will bring. 

As a writer the past year has been an absolute blast. I have been to several conferences, met some lovely people and brought out four new books. These were Killer's Cut and Killer's Crew in the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries, The Dagger's Curse in the Fergus and Flora Mysteries and one non fiction book. The non fiction book is called Power Packed Book Marketing and was written to accompany a talk and workshop I was doing. 

Over the year I have been a speaker at several conferences and run workshops at several more. Book week Scotland was crazy busy with 11 events in 8 days. The highlight had to be being on a panel at Bouchercon in New Orleans. This was special in many ways. It was my first time speaking at an International Festival as a writer, also my first time in New Orleans. I also met a number of delightful people who I now call friends. 

Killer's Countdown, the first book in my DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries won a Chill With a Book Award. This was my first writing award and I felt quite emotional. If you haven't yet read this series then now is the time to start. To celebrate the award Killer's Countdown is only £1.99. You can get it from any Amazon

As I say 2016 was memorable. It was fun and full of adventure and excitement. It was also full of wonder. Wonder that this was happening and gratefulness that it was. 

I am excited about what 2017 will bring. I have already been asked to speak at several conferences including the Scottish Association of Writers Conference and the Dublin Writers Conference. I will also be attending a number of other conferences including Killer Nashville and Bouchercon in Toronto. The Crime Writers Conference is happening over my birthday so I am looking forward to that. I have been asked to run a full day of writing workshops for The Prince's Trust

I have a number of projects and books ongoing. The Haunted Broch, the next book in the Fergus and Flora Mysteries will be with the publisher any day now. The next Shona McKenzie book will also be out in May or June. I believe that 2017 will be just as exciting, if not more so, than 2017.

Many people are choosing their word for the year. I have decided my word will be opportunity. I know that there are a number of opportunities which could come along. I plan on embracing them and making the most of them. Where they will take me I can not tell. I do know that I will continue to follow my dream. To enjoy every single minute of the journey and let it take me where it will.

As 2017 approaches I urge you to follow your dream. Take the first step, then another and another. You will soon be well into your journey and on your way to reaching your goal. If that dream is to write a book then pick up a pen, or pull forward a keyboard and write the first word. Share what your dream is in the comments below. Your first step could be telling the world. It will make it somehow more real.

However, the year has not just been about writing. It has also been about reading. My first read of the New Year will be The Kill Fee by Fiona Veitch Smith. Expect a review on here very soon. What book are you starting the new year with. Let me know in the comments so I can get some recommendations.

Whatever you may be doing I trust you will have a blessed and happy year. Thank you for sharing the last year with me and I look forward to sharing the next year with you as well. 

  

The Bare Necessities

Today I'm thinking about the bare necessities for a writer. What is it we need in order to write and be creative? Most of us will have a computer, or maybe even a desktop and a laptop. We may have an office, or a small corner of a room where we write. Wherever we write there will be a desk or a table. If we really dig down deep then most of us will have a cup of coffee or tea next to us. Some people may not be fortunate enough to have all of this but will be writing using a notebook and pen, sitting at the kitchen table, or on the sofa or the bed. 

However, I would venture to say that the most essential bare necessity for a writer is words. Those and something to write them on. Why am I thinking about this I hear you ask? Well, this is November and November for many people means NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month to give it its full title. During this time writers pledge to write 50000 words in 30 days. This means that the bare necessity to meet the challenge is 1667 words per day. The idea is to free flow write and this can free up the mind and allow the words to flow. For some this works and for others the pressure means that they dry up completely. 

I think this is a good habit to cultivate. To write a set amount of words per day. When you sit down to write then your body knows it is time to create. NaNoWriMo gves the writer permission to prioritise writing and everything else can wait. I think we should all make this a year long habit.

That's it for another day my Bookaholic buddies. If you are doing NaNoWriMo then more power to your elbow. Have fun. If you're not, enjoy whatever book you re reading.

Forgetful heart by Lucy Mills

Good morning my fellow Bookaholics. It's a dreary day here in Bonnie Dundee. It's lashing down with rain and cold. In fact it's the perfect day to put the heating on, grab a coffee and a chocolate biscuit and curl up with a good book. Today I bring you an excellent Christian book which I think every Christian should read. 

Forgetful Heart is one of the most insightful and interesting books I have read in a long time. We are all living in a world where we are bombarded with information and it is often difficult to remember who we are, never mind what we are meant to be doing. In this book Lucy Mills draws us into the very heart of God, who never forgets us. She outlines what is important and what we need to remember about ourselves and our relationship with God. 

However, this book is so much more than that. It is well researched and full of interesting facts and wisdom. Each chapter takes a different aspect of memory and skilfully draws us back to the bible for answers. I love the way in which the bible quotes and insights are interweaved and relevant. This is a book which you will read through once as you re enjoying it so much. You will then want to delve into it more deeply and slowly. You will also want to return to it time and time again. 

Forgetful heart really spoke to me on many levels. It made me take stock of my life and what is important. It made me think of what my business is doing to both me, and my relationship with God. Mills is a skilful and passionate writer and I am sure we will be hearing more from her in the future.

This is an inspirational book which I would not hesitate to recommend.

       

So there we have it for another day my Bookaholic friends. See you all back here very soon. Until then, keep reading. 

That Heady Feeling - Hitting the Bestseller Charts

Good morning bookaholics. It's a bit dreich in Dundee today. For the non scots this means it's grey and miserable. However, I don't feel dreich at all. In fact I feel decidedly sunny and happy. Let me explain.

Yesterday I popped into Waterstones to pick up a book I had ordered for Freya. It was a good day in Dundee. The sun was shining and there was a cycle event happening so the city was busy. What happened in Waterstones changed it from a good day to a fabulous day. Firstly, the manager of Waterstones introduced me to local author Mark Leggatt. 

The manager, Kevin, then said, "Wendy is also a local author, of the book behind you." 

He pointed to the shelf and that is when my day exploded from good to glorious technicolour brilliance. Killer's Craft was at number 3 in the book charts. In fact is was just behind 'Go Set a Watchman' and 'The Girl on the Train.' I never in my wildest dreams imagined that would happen. It is the most wonderful feeling in the world. As a lifelong reader, and now a writer, this was indeed heady stuff.

I got chatting to Mark and then Crime Blogger, Lynsey Adams arrived. If you haven't read Lynsey's excellent There's Been a Murder blog, then check it out now. 

I am sure you will agree this was a superb day for me as an author. Forgive me my moment of excitement. I will be back to reviewing books next time. 

If you would like to check out both Killer's Craft and Killer's Countdown, you can do so through the images on the right or via the universal link below. This will take you to the Amazon of your country.

Amazon Universal Link

Or if you wan tot check out Mark's book Names of the Dead

I will see all of you bookaholics back here soon. Until then, keep reading. 

An Author's Thoughts Revealed

It has been a bit of a busy time for me recently. Book two in the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries is finished and I am waiting for the proof copy to turn up. I am reliably informed it will be here today. This means I can't settle and my thoughts are all over the place. There is still much to do before the launch which still seems so far away. Yet it is less than five weeks. The launch will be held in Waterstones, Dundee on 20th July at 6.30 pm. I'm excited beyond belief, and very much looking forward to the event. So I am sure you can understand why my thoughts are erratic. 

Whilst I am writing this blog, and doing anything else in fact, all I can think about is the postman arriving. Only a writer will understand what it means to hold the first copy of a new book in my hands. This is a time of magic. It belongs to me, and all those months and years of hard work have come to fruition. For five weeks I can hold it in my hand. There is still time to nurture it and make changes. However, in five weeks it will be set free and into the hands of the reading public. All authors know that this is an anxious time. Will readers enjoy the book is what fills my thoughts on launch day. 

So, today, I am finding it difficult to settle. I am finding it difficult to concentrate. What does an author do in such circumstances? Why read a book of course. In order to be an author, you first need to be a reader. My love of reading is up there with that of my writing. I have bookcases full of books which I have not yet read. I can savour the glorious feeling of anticipation as I choose the perfect book. I will then grab a cup of tea, a chocolate biscuit and sit down with the book. It will occupy my mind and hold me in its grip. It will stop me thinking about the postman's arrival.

What's that you say? What have I chosen? That my friends will remain a mystery until next time. See you all back here soon with a review of my chosen book. 

In the meantime I will leave you with a picture of the cover of book two in the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries. If you haven't yet read book one you can get it from the links on the right hand side of the blog. By for now, and keep reading. 

Review of Dawkins' God by Alister McGrath

I've had a rest from fiction for a little while and have been reading an in depth and interesting book.

Dawkins' God is a well reasoned, clear, and critical analysis of some of Richard Dawkin's works, particularly The Selfish Gene and The God Delusion. This is an in depth book, and is jam packed full of detail. It has the potential to be dry, but, McGrath has an excellent style which makes the book imminently readable, for all. Even those with little understanding of the science and the arguments surrounding the issue will feel that they have learned a lot.

The book is well researched and it is clear that McGrath knows his subject well. It is also interesting in the extreme. It is rare, that a book packed full of factual details, has me wanting to read on. This one achieved that and more. The way in which he deconstructs Dawkin's arguments is clear and easily understood. Yet, despite disagreeing with Dawkin's, McGrath is respectful and gives him credit for his theories and the way in which he puts them forward. It is refreshing to see such respect in a religious academic argument. 

Although I have not read either of the books which are being discussed, I did not feel this was an issue. McGrath has written the book in a way which makes sense. However, it has left me wanting to read the other two books, in order to gain an all round perspective. 

I would highly recommend this book to everyone as it is well worth reading.

     

That's it for today my Bookaholic friends. See you all back here very soon. My next post will be a review of an excellent thriller. I'm off to finish reading it. Have a great day and enjoy whatever book you are currently reading. 

Interview with Scottish Crime Writer Michael J. Malone

Today on Bookaholic we welcome Scottish Crime Writer Michael J. Malone. Thank you for agreeing to take the hot seat Michael. 

I am sure the readers would love to hear about you. Could you start by telling them a little bit about yourself?

I’ve lived in Ayrshire all of my life and like most writers I’ve had a multiple jobs. From stacking shelves, to selling books and suits. From banking to publishing. But the one constant throughout has been books – both reading and writing.

I have a yellow Labrador (Bob) and a teenage son who keeps me grounded with comments like, “I hope you realise I won’t be reading your book, Dad.”

As Glasgow is so important to the story could you tell the readers something about the City?

When I was younger, Glasgow held a good deal of glamour. It seemed like an exciting, vibrant, funny and somewhat dangerous place. The clothes were better, the music more exciting and the girls more attractive than what was going on in Ayrshire. But that’s a (very) young man’s view and maturity teaches that cities like Glasgow have much, much more to offer.

Which is your favourite character in any of your books and why?

Ray McBain. He’s a man with enough baggage to keep an airport carousel in business for a month, but he’s also funny, vulnerable and honest to a fault.

When you are not writing what types of books do you read? What would you say was the best book you have ever read?

I read a variety of things. Crime mostly, because I review for Crimesquad. And I tend to seek out American and Scottish authors. I enjoy the scale of much of the stuff coming out of the US, and the grit and humour my fellow Scots are renowned for. But I like to mix it up with fantasy, historical and some contemporary fiction (I’m resisting  the “Literary” label – hate that word).

As for my favourite ever book, that changes depending on the prevailing winds, but my favourite authors include, Pat Conroy, Robert Crais, James Lee Burke, John Connolly, Don Winslow, Raymond Feist, Denise Mina, Fiona McIntosh. I could go on, and on. And on.

I have reviewed Beyond the Rage below. Can you tell the readers something about your other books?

Blood Tears and A Taste for Malice are thrillers starring D.I. Ray McBain.

The Guillotine Choice is an inspirational novel based on the true story of an innocent Algerian sent to Devil’s Island by the French colonial power.

Carnegie’s Call is a non-fiction book detailing the lives and successes of a number of prominent Scots.

Now we are getting personal. What is your favourite food?

Cake.

But I also enjoy a fry-up – bacon, black-pudding, square sausage and eggs. Never get tired of that.

If you ever have a day off from writing exciting books what do you like to do in your spare time?

Walk the dog. Go to the gym. Read a book. Watch a movie. That’s pretty much my life right there.

Beyond the rage is a gritty novel and deals with the criminal underbelly of Glasgow. Where did you get your inspiration for such a dark novel?

Kenny O’Neill is the hero of this book – and he features in my first two novels as Ray McBain’s criminal best friend.

While my first two books were doing the rounds of the publishers and receiving rave rejections I knew I had to keep writing, but I didn’t want to write a third McBain book until the first two had a home, so I hit upon the idea of a book with Kenny acting front and centre.

Is there anything, which has surprised you as a writer? If so what is it?

Lots and lots. It has been a big, steep learning curve. The thing that occurs to me right now, given that I’m in the agony of writing a new book – is that I can manage to come up with another one.

Each time I’ve typed those two little words “The End” I have the strongest feeling that I will never EVER be able to do that again. That I’ve left everything on the page and there is nothing in the creative well. But, after a break the drive to write rises, there’s a spark of an idea and I’m off. It shouldn’t still surprise me, but it does.

Thank you for joining us Micael and for being patient in answering all my questions.

Beyond the Rage

This is the first book I have read by Michael and I am sure it won't be the last. This is a gritty book which is down to earth and real. Malone gives the reader a flavour of the Glasgow underworld which is realistic. His writing style is excellent and he does not pull any punches. I started of by disliking the main character Kenny, O'Neill but I ended up loving him. He is a multifaceted character with a lot of endearing features. For a gangster that is. The basic premise of the story is that Kenny is trying to find his long lost father. This leads to a well written story and a tight plot which races along. The story pulls the reader along with it, and the tension ramps up towards the end. This is an enjoyable book.

The only thing I will add is that there are  a lot of sexual scenes and references in this book. Whilst this supports the story well I felt I should let readers know in advance.

You can find out more about Michael and his books on his Amazon Author page

That's us for another Bookaholic day. See you back here very soon. Until then keep reading and writing. 

A book by its Cover

There is a well known saying, You Can't Judge a Book by its Cover. There are many arguments that come down on both sides of this. It is something I have been thinking about, a lot, recently. The second book in the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries will be out in July. The cover, above, has been designed by Cathy Helms, of Avalon Graphics, and I love it. I think it gives a real flavour of the book, moody and mysterious. It also incorporates elements of Dundee in the river and bridge. 

So back to our discussion of judging a book by its cover. I have read some books which I have enjoyed, where I hated the cover. I will add here that this does not happen often. The first thing a reader notices when they pick up a book, is the cover. If they don't like it then they will, most likely, put it down again without going any further. The cover and title are crucial in encouraging the reader to look further. This moves them on to the blurb on the back of the book. This is a whole new post so I won't go into it here.

Successful author entrepreneur, Joanna Penn, has written a superb post about book covers and titles. She has recently gone through the process of changing hers. You can read more on the link below

On Changing Book Titles and Covers

Whether you are traditional, or indie, published, it is important to ensure that books are professionally designed. Working in partnership with the designer is key. I respect Cathy's talent and expertise, and she is willing to listen to me, the author. The result, I am sure you will agree, is fabulous. It think it fits in well with the cover of book one, Killer's Countdown.

  

That's the first time I have seen them together and I am feeling quite emotional. Not long now until they will be together on my, and the bookshops, shelves. The release date for Killer's Craft is 20th July, 2015. It's exciting being an author. 

If you haven't, yet, read Killer's Countdown, you buy it from Amazon by clicking on the links at the top of the page. The books, are stand alone mysteries, but you will see the characters develop more fully, by reading them in order. 

That's it for today my Bookaholic friends. I'm off to have a glass of Champagne to celebrate. What do you mean it's too early. Maybe you're right. I'll wait until this evening. 

4 Top Notch Books on Editing for Writers

I have been editing book two in the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries for the past few days. Writing the book is the easy part. Editing, as all writers know, or will find out, is the hard part. In preparation for editing I have been reading some excellent books on the subject. So today I bring you four, which I think every writer should have in their arsenal.

The Little Book of Self Editing for Writers by Bridget McKenna

This is a cracking little book. It is only 96 pages long, but every page packs a punch. It is in three parts.

1. Search and Destroy
2. The self editor's toolkit
3. Self editing resources

I read it through quickly and then used it to transform my manuscript. McKenna uses Zombies to illustrate some of her points. No, I am not joking. Yes, it does work. It is the most brilliant tip I have come across. You will, of course, have to read the book to find out more.

Part three has a self editing checklist. I used it to go through my manuscript and again transform it into something readers will love. Using this checklist will help any author eliminate areas which will slow the manuscript down and take the reader out of the story.  I loved this book and is one I would highly recommend.

Self Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King

This is one I have reviewed before, but I make no apologies for including it in this list. This book is an excellent addition to the library of any writer. It covers every aspect of editing and takes the author through them in simple steps. It is clearly written  and uses examples to support  explanation. This method works and it is easy to see at a glance how your writing can be improved. This book also contains checklists to use when editing. It also has a number of writing exercises to help the author develop their craft. This is one I cannot recommend highly enough.





APE: Author, Publisher, Entrepreneur by Kawasaki and Welsh

This book isn't specifically about editing, but about the process of writing, self publishing and marketing your book. However, it does contain an excellent chapter on editing. This is chock full of links to resources which will help you to edit your book. Overall, the book is excellent, but for the purposes of this blog, the section on editing is outstanding.







Polish Your Fiction by Jessica Bell

This is not a large book but every piece of advice within it is solid and helpful. As Bell says in her introduction it is not about writing a book, but about polishing it with a good edit. It covers all the key areas such as:

1. First Line Hook
2. Character consistency and point of view
3. Dialogue tags
4. Tightening Descriptions
5. Removing superfluous words
6. Identifying and replacing overused words
7. First person and Third person pronouns.



There are more chapters but this gives you a general feel for the way in which this book helps you to do an in depth edit. It is one which all writers should read and have by their side during the editing process, and one which I highly recommend.

Now for a bonus book.

Self Publish Your Book by Jessica Bell

This is not specifically about editing but does contain some excellent advice on how to format your book if you are self publishing. It takes you through all the steps you need to get your book finished and ready to publish. The steps are easy to follow and will save you a lot of time









So there we have it my Bookaholic friends. Another one for writers. However, I am reading a cracking crime book at the moment so will be back with another review soon. Until then, keep reading and writing.

Interview with Scottish Writer Christine Richard

We continue with the Scottish theme on the blog as I highlight some great Scottish writers and books. Today I am joined by Christine Richard, author of Whitewalls, a contemporary Scottish saga. Welcome Christine. It is a real pleasure to have you join us on Bookaholic. Thank you for agreeing to answer some questions about your life and your writing. I know you are busy so it is kind of you to take time out to meet with me.

I am sure the readers would love to hear about you. Could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself?

I was born in Yorkshire but came to Scotland with my first family as stepmother to three baby boys whose mother had sadly died and had my daughter, Fiona, who designed the book cover of ‘Whitewalls’ and prepared it for publication. I remarried and had a second family of stepchildren. One of my sons, Christopher died four years ago of heart failure and we all miss him greatly as he was a ‘golden boy’ who went round the world doing good! As far as my own history to date is concerned I have always been involved in politics, since the age of 16 and current affairs. I stood for Parliament three times and served as a Councillor in Edinburgh for 12 years – four of them as Leader of the Opposition. In 1992 I was made an OBE and I am a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Simultaneously with politics I have had a career as a qualified Business Studies lecturer and non-executive director. I have been scribbling both poetry and prose from a very young age. Now, I suggest that is quite enough about me!

Can you tell us something about the setting for your book?

My book ‘Whitewalls’ is a Scottish family saga set in the present day. The title comes from the name of the house, which is a Scottish Baronial style whitewashed house which I have set on the banks of the River Tweed. It is the heart of the family which has four generations included from boy and girl twins aged 9 to a very naughty great grandfather, Sir Alistair, who is still being naughty in his eighties. There are two sides to the family, the Douglas’s (named after a racehorse owned by my late husband, John) and the Bruce’s. As well as the Borders I have locations in Edinburgh Perth, Yorkshire, the Cotswolds, London and France. Rosie who is in her fifties is the gentle matriarch whose mission in life is to ensure the happiness and prosperity of her extended family. What I wanted to show in writing this book about and upper middle-class family who, on the surface, have everything – money, lovely homes, talents and successes but who suffer the same troughs and peaks as the rest of us.

Where did you get the inspiration for your book?

In a way this is the easiest question. I followed the sound advice ‘write about what you know’

Your book sounds really interesting. Can you tell the readers about it.

In a way I have mentioned some of this already. But here is some more! Art is one of my interests and one of the main characters, Rosie’s husband, Jamie, is an artist as well as helping his father, Roddy, to farm at Roddy is a widower. Polly, their daughter, is married to Richard, an Edinburgh lawyer and they are the twins’ parents – Minty and John. Horses are another interest of mine so they feature too. Hughie Bruce is Rosie’s brother and their mother, Lady Elizabeth Bruce was married to the rascally Sir Alistair who she divorced many years ago. The house belongs to the Douglas family. Charles, Jamie and Rosie’s son, is a professional soldier currently in Afghanistan and in love with a lovely actress, Maggie, who has red hair and green eyes. She is very close to her grandmother, Florette, who is French. Hughie is married to Virginia and they live in an Elizabethan Manor house in the Cotswolds. So it is quite a complicated story with a large cast and, I think, just as you had read enough about one group I take the reader along to the next part of the family at a different location.

When you are not writing what types of books do you read?

I read all kinds of books from the classics, the Brontes who lived close to where I was born and I have a full set of their books. I read political biographies and autobiographies, I like Rosamund Pilcher’s work and found some inspiration in her storytelling, also Penny Vicenzi and for light relief, Jilly Cooper.

Have you any other books in the pipeline?

Yes, I am completing the sequel to ‘Whitewalls’ which took place over one spring and summer, with the title ‘Autumn at Whitewalls’ which will be launched in time for that season and the early Christmas market. As the first one this will be published by New Gewneration, which is part of Legend Press and a good halfway house between self publishing and mainstream. They are very helpful.

As a new writer what would be your number one piece of advice to other new writers?

Just do it! Don’t ask too many people’s advice. Whatever you choose to write about it has to be your composition. It isn’t easy. So many people have said to me ‘I could write a book, if only I had time!’ If you want to write with enough passion to do it you will find time. Once you have started make up your own ‘rules’ about how you go about it. Get to know your characters, do your research where necessary. Every time you get to a point where you have an idea what is going to happen next, STOP. This will be the perfect time to begin your next session.

If you were to choose one writing book to recommend to a new writer what would it be?

I wouldn’t. Apart from the few simple rules I have mentioned – research, characters and plot (the plot will change as you go along) own your own work.

Now we are going to get personal. What would you say is your favourite type of music?

Classical music – Rachmaninov, Mozart, Beethoven and Debussy.

Do you use music to help you write? If so what type?

I prefer to write in silence – no distractions.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Theatre, concerts – I am a patron of the Edinburgh Festival and King’s Theatres Trust’ I helped to obtain the Festival Theatre (which I was allowed to name) when I was a Councillor. I enjoy spending time with family and friends as well as horse racing and the countryside. I am Arts Editor of online magazine Lothian Life and do book and exhibition reviews. Also I am an accredited ‘journalist’ covering the Edinburgh International Festival (I served on the Board of that for the maximum 6 years) I am sure that is more than enough.

Thank you for answering my questions so patiently and in such great detail. I have loved getting to know you and your work and I am sure my Bookaholic readers will enjoy meeting you too.

You can find out more about Christine and her work by clicking on her Amazon Author Page

You can buy copies of the book from Amazon UK and Amazon USA by clicking on the links below. 

     

I will receive a few pence commission if you buy the books through these links. You do not have to do so and can buy them by going direct to Amazon

Book Review: Fixed in Blood by T.E. Woods

Good evening Bookaholics. I realise there has been a lot of writing talk on the blog recently so to make up for it I am bringing you a review of a top rate book. All the mystery fans out there will love this one. 

I really enjoyed Woods first book the fixer and was looking forward to this new offering. I was not disappointed. Woods is an excellent storyteller and uses words to good effect. She draws the reader in and keeps them reading. I was engrossed in the story form the first word. 

Initially the different parts of the story seem a little disparate but once you get to know the characters and the story better they start to pull together. In fact the wondering where it is all going is part of the overall tension. There is tension aplenty in this book. There are parts which are high octane and others which are slower paced, but the tension never eases up. 

I liked the characters, particularly that of the Chief of Detectives Mort Grant. He is not a caricature but a real person, confident, knows what he is doing and yet with his own foibles. Woods uses dialogue to good effect to keep the story moving and to give characters their own voice. 

Some parts of the book are really creepy and the reader feels like they are in the presence of evil. There are some parts which are not for the faint hearted. Given the themes of the book such as the sex trade, they are necessary for the story and help to set the tone of the book. I feel they are handled well. The resolution of all the storylines and the way they pull together is excellent. I certainly wasn't expecting the end. 

This is a top notch book, fast paced and engrossing, and I would highly recommend it. 

   

This book will not be available until 16th June. However, it is available on preorder from Amazon on the link above. 

That brings us to the end of another review and book aloha blog. See you all back here very soon. 

I was given a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. At no time was I asked to provide a positive review. The review is imperial and based on my reading and enjoyment of the book. 

Interview with Scottish Author Rosemary Gemmell

Today on the blog we welcome highly talented Scottish author Rosemary Gemmell. It is a real pleasure to welcome a fellow Scot to Bookaholics. Thank you for taking time out of, what I know is, a hectic schedule to join us.

many thanks for inviting me along to your blog Wendy

I am sure the readers would love to hear about you. Could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself?

Now that my two children are well grown up, one with a child of his own, I’m lucky enough to be a full-time writer, although I don’t write full-time hours! I also have a very supportive husband and I reward him by doing some of his admin and proof-reading.

I was a well-published short story and article writer before turning to novel length and I still like the variety of different types of writing, including poetry and children’s. I write historical romance and contemporary novellas with a touch of mythological fantasy as Romy, and tween fiction as Ros. The Highland Lass, published by Crooked Cat, is the first novel under my full name.

I live in the beautiful west coast of Scotland and am inspired by living so near the sea and countryside. I love to share information with other writers and often adjudicate competitions, one of the best ways to learn what works!

In what way are The Highlands important to your story

Although my new novel is called The Highland Lass, it doesn’t take place in the usual highlands of Scotland. The title is significant for another reason. The novel is set in the present and the past and the historical chapters trace the story of Highland Mary, one of Robert Burns’ great loves. The highland part refers to the area of Argyllshire where Mary grew up speaking Gaelic, which gave her a lilt to her voice and earned her that name when she moved to the lowlands of Ayrshire. The other significance is the letter the modern character, Eilidh, find addressed to her late mother, where the unknown writer refers to her as his ‘highland lass’ – all part of the mystery!

What is it about books set in Scotland that would excite the reader?

One of the most popular aspects of Scottish-based books is the wonderful scenery that incorporates mountains, glens, rivers and lochs. The Highland Lass takes the reader on a journey to Argyllshire, Ayrshire, Loch Lomond, Glasgow and Inverclyde with Eilidh trying to discover the identity of her father while researching Highland Mary and Burns. Some readers have said they learned a lot more about this area of Scotland!

Where do you get the inspiration for your fiction?

Anywhere and everywhere, from snippets of news or history to places I’ve visited. My Aphrodite and Adonis series was inspired by a visit to Cyprus some years ago, as it is known as Aphrodite’s Island and I’ve always loved mythology! Some of my short stories were inspired by paintings or photographs. Inspiration is literally all around if you look at it with a writer’s mind.

Which is your favourite character in any of your books and why?

I think it’s still the hero from my very first novel, Dangerous Deceit, set in 1813. Lord Sheldon is my ideal male character: strong, brave and sensitive with a respect for the heroine, Lydia’s, headstrong independence.

When you are not writing what types of books do you read? What would you say was the best book you have ever read?

I read constantly, especially in the evening. I love a variety of genres from historical romantic intrigue, to crime and modern mysteries. I also love philosophical type novels that make me think. I have lots of favourite books but one of my all-time favourites which I read many years ago is Knowledge of Angels by Jill Paton Walsh and I keep meaning to re-read it one day.

What are you working on at the moment? Without giving too much away can you tell us something about it?

I’m trying to finish the third novella in the Aphrodite and Adonis series which I promised the publisher, Tirgearr, some time ago! That’s the priority, but I’m also working on a couple of other novellas in different eras and the first in a Victorian crime series set in my own area. Plus several articles and the odd short story.

Now we are getting personal. What is your favourite food?

Apart from chocolate you mean? I love Chinese food with noodles and the occasional Italian or Indian dish. I also adore salmon.

If you could travel to any one country in the world where would it be and why?

I’ve been lucky enough to travel to many countries already as my husband works in travel. I loved Canada and one of my eternal favourites is Venice. Of those I haven’t yet seen, I quite fancy India (though husband doesn’t!) as I’ve often been fascinated by its culture, colour and noise, through films and books set there.

Who is your favourite author and why?

As with books, I have many! One of my favourites is Sarah Waters and I always look forward to her new books as she is such a wonderful storyteller, no matter where or when the story is set. Fingersmith is one of the best novels for its unexpected twist and turns and I love being surprised like that.

If you ever have a day off from writing exciting books what do you like to do in your spare time?
I love going out for coffee and walks with my husband at the weekend, especially beside the coast. Even during the week, I make sure to meet up with friends now and then over coffee or lunch. I also enjoy visiting interesting places or exhibitions as they often provide inspiration. I love swimming and dancing and both have been neglected recently so I’m aiming to put that right. I can only sit at a computer for so long before I need a distraction. These days, I’m sometimes called upon to look after my gorgeous wee granddaughter who will soon be three and that’s a great delight.

Thank you Rosemary. It has been a real pleasure chatting up with you and getting to know a bit more about you. It would seem that all my guests have one thing in common with me, we all love chocolate. I love Rosemary's Video which accompanies her book.

You can find out more about Rosemary and her books below as well as the links to buy The Highland Lass from Amazon UK and USA

    

Website: www.rosemarygemmell.com  

Reading and Writing Blog: http://ros-readingandwriting.blogspot.com

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Romy-Gemmell/1422387704702586

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RosemaryGemmell

Interview with Donna Fletcher Crow

Today on Bookaholic I am honoured to welcome Historical Crime Writer Donna Fletcher Crow. Donna writes The Monastery Murders which are set in the UK. I know you are a busy lady Donna, so thank you for taking time out to join us and tell us about your books. 

I love being here on your blog, Wendy. Only thing better would be being together in person so we could share a cup of Scottish Blend tea.

I am sure the readers would love to hear about you. Could you start by telling you a little bit about yourself?

Wife of more than 50 years, mother of 4, grandmother of 13 ½. Writer of 45 books— mostly novels of British history. Enthusiastic, but haphazard, gardener and fussy tea-drinker.

Could you tell us a little bit about where you are from?

I am one of those rare Idahoans that is actually a native. Most of our population is from other states who have discovered the delights of our unspoiled, uncluttered state. Idaho is mountainous and agricultural with wide open spaces. Really a lot like Scotland— I always feel very at home there. As, I’m sure, did my Scottish ancestors who emigrated here.

I think this is a perfect place for a writer to live because our pace of life is slightly slower, so hopefully one has time to breathe and think. This was especially true of my growing up as I was an only child living on a farm. I made up stories in my head to entertain myself. 

 

 

Wow what a beautiful place to live Donna. Your photos make me want to visit. 

Could you tell us a bit about your writing and your books?

I think the most important thing is for a writer is to write from their passion and my passion has always been British history— ever since I wrote my first short story about King Arthur when I was in the third grade. Therefore, whether I’m writing romance or mystery, contemporary or historical, all my stories have a lot of British history, especially Christian history, in the background.

My best known work is the epic Glastonbury, an Arthurian grail search covering 15 centuries of British history from the birth of Christ through the Reformation.

My most recent release is A Newly Crimsoned Reliquary, book # 4 in my Monastery Murders. In this series Felicity, a thoroughly modern American woman goes to study in a theological college run by monks in a monastery in Yorkshire. Each book requires Felicity and Father Antony, her church history lecturer, to look deep into history to find the clues to why people are being murdered today.

In A Newly Crimsoned Reliquary Felicity and Antony struggle with personal and family problems as they explore St. Frideswide, the Oxford Martyrs, John and Charles Wesley’s Holy Club, and the Oxford Movement as murder stalks Oxford’s hallowed shrines.

Where do you get the inspiration for your fiction?

My plots either start with a story from history I want to tell or from an area of the UK I want to explore in depth. One of my major goals as a writer is to give my readers a “you are there” experience— my books are a bit of a travelogue— in order to do this I have to experience the place first. My plots often grow out of the settings. I often look around in an atmospheric setting and think “What a great place to hide a body.”

How do you carry out the research for your books?

Once I’ve settled on the bones of my story— the setting, the historical background, the major plot points, my characters’ personal relationships — I read everything I can find on the subject on this side of the Atlantic. Then I plan my onsite research trip which will hopefully cover everyplace my characters will visit.

Through the years this has provided the most incredible experiences visiting museums, castles, ruined monasteries, and out-of-the-way historic sites. The more crumbling the ruin, the more remote the site, the dustier the artifact the better I like it. Readers can see pictures from my research trips on my website under Research Albums.

When you are not writing what types of books do you read?
My writing is a model of the classic advice, “Write what you like to read.” I started out writing romance. When I suddenly realized I couldn’t read another romance I switched to writing historicals. When I began to feel I needed “something more” to keep the pages turning I began specializing in murder mysteries, which have long been my “default position” in pleasure reading.

What would you say was the best book you have ever read?

Other than the Bible, I assume you mean. That’s always first every morning. Beyond that, it’s easier to name my favorite authors. Jane Austen is my great literary love, Persuasion my favorite of her books. I wrote A Jane Austen Encounter in my Elizabeth and Richard literary suspense series as a tribute to her. My favorite mystery writers are Dorothy L Sayers, The Nine Tailors probably my favorite, and P. D. James with Death in Holy Orders topping the list.

What is your favourite food?

Ah, Christmas cake with lots of marzipan, salmon and American style salads. All with cups of good strong tea.

If you could visit any country in the world, where would it be?

No prizes for guessing it would normally be the UK. Even if I lived there I could never visit all the places I want to explore. But just at the moment I’m going to have to say Japan because our oldest son and his family— which includes four of our grandchildren— are moving there and besides the fact that we will miss them, it has always been important to me to share my childrens’ experiences, just as I always try to experience my characters’ adventures.

Have you got any more books planned? If so, are you able to tell us something about them?

Always, Wendy! I have two books in the editing process right now. The Flame Ignites will be a prequel to my Elizabeth and Richard literary suspense series. It is set in an autumnal blaze of red and gold leaves in 1984 when Elizabeth and Richard first meet. Literary figures are the belovd American novelist Elswyth Thane, with whom I shared an extended friendship via postal mail, and Rudyard Kipling. Very few people know Kipling lived in New England and did some of his most important writing there.

My next Monastery Murder also has a fiery title: An All-Consuming Fire. This is set in a monastery in Yorkshire at Christmastide and I don’t mind divulging that it includes Felicity and Antony’s wedding—modeled on our daughter’s English wedding, likewise to a priest. The fire referred to in the title is Richard Rolle’s mystical work The Fire of Love. The English mystics Rolle, Walter Hilton and the author of The Cloud of Unknowing provide background.

Thanks for joining us and answering the questions Donna. I, and the Bookaholic readers, appreciate it. I am sure many of us are looking forward to reading your books. 

Thank you again for inviting me, Wendy. I’ve had fun visiting. And I would like to invite your readers to visit my website to see more about all of my books, including trailers of some of my Monastery Murders, pictures of my research trips and photos from my garden. I would also love to have you follow me on Facebook.

And since you were so kind to share pictures of Dundee with me, here are a few photos of Boise, Idaho: 

You can find out more about Donna and her books at Amazon UK and Amazon USA

Finally Bookaholics, I have read some of Donna's books and they are excellent. Well worth buying now. Once you start you will want to read them all. Enjoy the books and I will see you all back her every soon.