See my previous news items
Here are all my old news items. They have all appeared on the news page at some time in the past. I keep these old ones here, so those who are new to my site can catch up on earlier episodes of "the story of Nicola Slade, the author". Happy reading !
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News from Jan - Sep 2012 — 9 news items
September 2012
The Deadly Dames
Tuesday, 11th September saw the inaugural outing of The Deadly Dames mystery writers’ group at Chichester Central Library. It was well attended and everyone enjoyed themselves. Several future dates have been booked as a result.
August 2012
Mystery People
Next month sees the debut appearance of a new group of crime writers all local to the Solent area. Under the auspices of a new, international organisation, Mystery People, we are calling ourselves The Deadly Dames and will be happy to do talks, panel discussions, and so forth, at conferences, festivals, or any group that would like to find out about how we write our books.
Our first gig is on Tuesday, 11th September, at Chichester library. Take a look at our poster on the Gallery Page.
I do hope local fans of crime and mystery novels will turn up and have some fun with us. Tickets £3 in advance from the Library, or on the door.
BBC Radio Solent
On Wednesday, 8th August I nipped into the BBC Radio Solent studios in Southampton to discuss my next big adventure, The Deadly Dames! with popular Breakfast Show host, Julian Clegg.
July 2012
West Sussex Writers’ Group
On Thursday, 12th July I had a great time talking to the West Sussex Writers’ Group in Worthing. They are a very long–established group and asked lots of interesting questions.
June 2012
A Crowded Coffin — a short outline
Here is the cover blurb for A Crowded Coffin.
It’s late summer in Hampshire and former headmistress, Harriet Quigley, is enjoying life. Her cousin Sam is moving next–door and the only cloud on the horizon is village gossip about a man who disappeared months earlier, along with a more recent near–fatal accident.
Suddenly it’s all going pear–shaped — and sensible, practical Harriet has only herself to blame. Sam has warned her not to play at being Miss Marple but despite her cousin’s strictures Harriet is suspicious about several newcomers and she’s been asking discreet questions. There’s an enigmatic artist; a good-looking vicar; a handsome Texan; a millionaire orchid–fancier; and Elvis the plumber. To cap it all someone’s seen the family ghost and only her young cousin Edith takes Harriet’s anxieties seriously.
With a sudden death in Winchester Cathedral; a treasure hunt that attracts unwelcome attention; and history that looms uncomfortably close, Harriet finds herself trapped somewhere very nasty — and she’s not alone.
May 2012
A Crowded Coffin
I’m delighted to announce that my fifth novel (and fourth mystery) will be published by Robert Hale at the end of January next year. A Crowded Coffin is a follow–up to last year’s contemporary murder mystery, Murder Fortissimo.
April 2012
Murder Fortissimo in North America
Exciting news! The Canadian and North American edition of Murder Fortissimo has been published by Harlequin. See Harlequin.com for details of how to purchase!
And there’s more! My blog is almost ready. More news soon.
March 2012
A fan writes…
Sometimes you receive an email that makes all the effort worthwhile:
“I just wanted to tell you that I recently bought your books and I’m loving them! I’m half way through Death is the Cure and
I’ve read the first and also Scuba Dancing. My only complaint is that I can’t put them down! It’s only the knowledge that
I need to sleep otherwise I’ll not manage to get up for work that makes me put them down and even then it takes effort! So
thank you for writing them and I hope your Charlotte series continues.”
Jan & Feb 2012
Australian Holiday
We had a great trip to Australia to visit our son and his family in Sydney and took the opportunity to visit several other states and cities.
I took the opportunity to do some research into convict history with a view to future chronicles about my Victorian sleuth, Charlotte Richmond, whose first two adventures appear in ‘Murder Most Welcome’ and ‘Death is the Cure’. We visited the men’s penal colony at Port Arthur in Tasmania, which was fascinating and, on a beautiful summer day, seemed far removed from its turbulent history.
An appropriate tourist attraction, in view of Charlotte’s history, was the brilliant, Louisa’s Walk, in Hobart, Tasmania. Here, two actors took us on a walk through history as seen through the eyes of a woman convicted of theft and transported to Tasmania, ending up at the notorious Cascades Female Factory It soon became clear to me that Charlotte’s history must somehow include this appalling prison, so I made a lot of careful notes.
News from 2011 — 19 news items
December 2011
Robert Hale Publishing
My publisher, Robert Hale Publishing, is one of the few independent, family–owned publishers remaining in London. Established in the 1930s the company produces a wide range of excellent books, among them crime stories and historical novels. Do take a look at their latest publications via my Links Page.
BBC Radio Solent
I’ve been invited to Julian Clegg’s Breakfast Show Christmas Party on Friday, 23rd December on BBC Radio Solent. I’ll be there from 6:30am so if you’re awake that early, do have a listen. There’ll be lots going on and you might even catch my 15 seconds of fame!
November 2011
Murder Fortissimo goes West
I’m delighted to announce that my most recent crime novel, Murder Fortissimo, will be published next year in the USA and Canada, in paperback, by Harlequin Books Ltd, under their crime imprint, ‘Worldwide Mystery Library’. I’m really excited about this and we’ll post more news as and when it arrives.
Romantic Novelists’ Association Winter Party
17th November: I attended the Romantic Novelists’ Association Winter Party in London. This is always a very glam affair, in the impressively panelled library of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, in Westminster. It was great fun to meet up with other authors, old friends and new, but the noise of more than 200 women (and about eight men) was incredible, especially after we had all been treated to a glass of champagne!
September 2011
BBC Radio Solent
8th September: I was interviewed by Julian Clegg, the BBC Radio SolentBreakfast Show host, for an update on my writing progress. I am one of “Julian’s People”.
April 2011
Hampshire Society
The April edition of this local glossy magazine features a cover picture and description of Murder Fortissimo prominently on their News & Diary Dates page.
‘More to Life…’
This is the quarterly newspaper published by Age Concern, Hampshire, and they gave me a great spread in the Spring issue, with an interview along with a nice review of Murder Fortissimo. See the review on the Murder Fortissimo book page.
Mystery Women
3rd April: I’ve belonged to a group called, Mystery Women, for a couple of years, and am glad that they have now decided to look for a higher profile. To this end they had a re-launch party in Waterstone’s at Piccadilly, which I attended, accompanied by my daughter, Olivia, whose job was to make sure I didn’t fall down any escalators and further damage myself! I met lots of authors new to me and even snatched a couple of words with my agent to let her know what I’m currently writing. I’m looking forward to getting involved in any talks or conferences that Mystery Women arrange in future.
The Bournemouth Daily Echo
15th April: The Bournemouth Daily Echo (I was brought up in Poole) carried an article about my books and about the teachers who influenced me. As a result I’ve heard from two people who were at school with me.
BBC Radio Solent
20th April: I was interviewed by phone for BBC Radio Solent, by Julian Clegg, the Breakfast Show host, who has a blink–and–you’ll–miss–it cameo in Murder Fortissimo!
March 2011
Romance Matters
I had a short article published in Romance Matters, the quarterly magazine of the Romantic Novelists’ Association. The title was: It Would Be A Crime To Leave, about continuing to be a member of the RNA even though I’m currently writing crime and not romantic novels. I’ve had some very nice comments from fellow RNA members, who all felt the same loyalty to an association that has been a great help to us all.
The Essex Book Festival
3th March: As I’m still unable to drive following the accident to my wrists, I persuaded my husband to take me to Chelmsford for The Essex Book Festival. I met up with several writing friends and we spent the day listening to well-known authors and chatting to some of them — Barbara Erskine, Jean Fullerton and Lindsey Davis, among others. It was very interesting and well–worth a visit.
February 2011
First Review of Murder Fortissimo
Book blogger, Geranium Cat has written the first review of Murder Fortissimo, and it’s a great one. The full review can be found at Geranium Cat’s Bookshelf.
Murder Fortissimo is launched
On 12th February we had a tea party for about 50 people to launch my new book. Because of my wrist injuries, friends and family rallied round and produced elegant crustless sandwiches, and scones, jam and clotted cream, while the selection of cakes that people brought was absolutely wonderful.
Vally Park Ladies’ Group
On Wednesday, 16th February, I talked to the Valley Park Ladies’ Group about my writing and my books.
Chilworth Ladies’ Group
The following day, Thursday 17th I did another talk, this time to the Chilworth Ladies’ Group.
January 2011
Express FM
I was interviewed by Chris Perry, presenter of ‘Age Concerns with Chris Perry’, on his radio show on Portsmouth-based Express FM, when I talked about my new book, Murder Fortissimo.
Unity Radio
I was also interviewed on Unity Radio (an asian & ethnic community radio station based in Southampton). Presenter, Nikki Sweet, discussed my latest book, Murder Fortissimo, as well as chatting about my paintings.
Murder Fortissimo is published
On the 31st January my new book, Murder Fortissimo, was officially published. Unfortunately, I was unable to celebrate very much, because I had broken both my wrists two days earlier. Thankfully, I’m gradually making progress.
News from 2010 — 10 news items
December 2010
Coffee Morning at the Mayor’s Residence
I was invited to talk about my books at a coffee morning in aid of the charities supported the 811th Mayor of Winchester. I had coffee with a very nice group of ladies who were intrigued to find that my books are all set locally and they were all delighted to receive a copy of Scuba Dancing as a Christmas present! Winchester is one of only five places in the UK that boasts its own Mayor’s Residence, so it was a great honour to be invited to this lovely house.
Margaret James, on rejected manuscripts
There is an article by author Margaret James in January’s edition of Writing Magazine (out in December) in which she discusses the wisdom of hanging on to old, rejected manuscripts, as they can sometimes be revamped and published. Margaret features three authors, including me, talking about books we had stashed away in deep, dark drawers, only to bring them out years later, rewrite them, and find a home for them. This is what happened to my forthcoming contemporary cosy mystery, Murder Fortissimo, to be published 31st January 2011, by Robert Hale Ltd.
November 2010
RNA Winter Party
On 17th November I went to the Romantic Novelists’ Association Winter Party. This is held in the elegantly–panelled library of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, near Westminster Abbey, and is always a good ‘do’ The RNA is a great organisation which has helped dozens of authors to be published.
In the photo I’m in the front with best–selling romantic comedy author, Katie Fforde, immediately behind me, along with other authors who have been helped by the RNA’s New Writers’ Scheme.
October 2010
I’ve just sent back the proofs of my new mystery, Murder Fortissimo, to the publisher and am looking forward to seeing the book itself. The proof–reader actually attached a note saying, ‘this is a very good read, expertly told’, which was kind of her.
September 2010
Brushstrokes Art Group Exhibition
I helped to organise an art exhibition at Mottisfont Abbey, near Romsey, and, along with fellow members of Brushstrokes Art Group, I had several paintings exhibited. The show was a great success and we are hoping to be invited again next year. I was delighted to sell a print and six paintings.
Southampton Writers’ Circle Scroll Award
On 22nd September I was invited by the Southampton Writers’ Circle to judge their annual Scroll Award. I’ve judged short story competitions before, but this was different as members have to submit what they consider to be their best piece of work during the current year. This meant that I read several pieces of short fiction, an article on local history, and — the winner — an intriguing poem by Tony Collins.
July 2010
Murder Fortissimo
Here is the cover for my new book, Murder Fortissimo, painted by artist, Chris Brown. It’s certainly very different from the Victorian mysteries which were also painted by Chris!
May 2010
My Next Book
I’m very pleased to anounce that my new contemporary crime novel, Murder Fortissimo will be available next Spring. I’ll be telling you more about it as we get near the launch date. Meanwhile, here’s a short outline of the story.When newly retired headmistress, Harriet Quigley, needs a good rest and somewhere comfortable to recover from a hospital stay, she believes Firstone Grange will be the ideal place. Upmarket and luxurious, (expensive, of course), but perfectly run by a competent and understanding Matron, Firstone Grange seems wonderful but there’s a serpent in this Paradise and Harriet soon realizes that some of the residents are very frightened.
When a particularly horrific death occurs, and Harriet finds herself in danger, she calls on her cousin, and best friend, the Rev’d Sam Hathaway, a Canon of Winchester Cathedral, and together they attempt to discover the truth.
April 2010
Sally Zigmond’s Book Launch
Friday 9th April: I went to Harrogate for Sally Zigmond’s launch of her new novel, Hope Against Hope. We got together in Harrogate’s Victorian Pump Room Museum to celebrate the occasion. You can read more about the event on Sally’s blog.
BBC Radio Solent
I joined to Julian Clegg on BBC Radio Solent for a short early morning chat on his Breakfast Show. I do enjoy appearing on his show, though it’s a bit early in the day for me !
Christine Coleman’s Book Launch
Tuesday 27th April: I visited the Birmingham Book Festival to support Christine Coleman at the launch of her second novel, Paper Lanterns. I also met television chef Clarissa Dickson Wright at the event, which was held at the Ikon Gallery.
March 2010
Hare Flight accepted for Open Exhibition
I’m delighted to announce that my entry for the Paper Planes : Open Exhibition at Southampton Art Gallery, has been accepted. My picture is called Cave Painting : Hare Flight and it’s the third time in a row that I’ve had a picture accepted for this exhibition, which is open to local artists. The exhibition runs from 28th February — 25th April.
February 2010
Audio version of Murder Most Welcome now available from Audible
The audio version of Murder Most Welcome is now available from Audible.co.uk at a special price for members. You can also hear a sample of the novel, which is read by Nicolette McKenzie.
January 2010
Death is the Cure is Launched
Saturday 16th January: More than sixty people — family and friends — helped celebrate the launch of the second Charlotte Richmond mystery: Death is the Cure. On the gallery page you can see some pictures of the event.
Unity Radio
On Wednesday, 20th January I was interviewed on Unity Radio (an asian & ethnic community radio station based in Southampton). Presenter, Nikki Sweet, asked me about my writing career and discussed my latest book, Death is the Cure, as well as chatting about my paintings.
First Review of Death is the Cure
Geranium Cat is a well-regarded book blogger, so I was pleased to see that she was very enthusiastic about Death is the Cure when she reviewed it on her blog. The full review can be found at Geranium Cat’s Bookshelf.
In the Spotlight
Fiona Jamieson of creative-writing-courses interviewed me recently. You can read the whole interview with Fiona on the creative-writing-courses website.
News from 2009 — 25 news items
December 2009
Julian Clegg’s Christmas Party
I went to Julian Clegg’s Christmas Party at BBC Radio Solent — at 6:30 am on Christmas Eve. About 30 people enjoyed breakfast and a brief chat with the Breakfast Show host.
BBC Radio Solent
Monday, 7th December I’m booked to talk to Julian Clegg, presenter of the Breakfast Show on BBC Radio Solent. Julian has been a terrific supporter from the time I was first published and it’s always a pleasure to chat and update him on my writing progress.
Creative Writing Courses
I have been signed up as a regular tutor in this new venture by Hampshire business woman, Fiona Jamieson.
BBC Radio Solent
Christmas Eve I’ve been invited to Julian Clegg’s Christmas Party at BBC Radio Solent which will be fun. The only downside is that I’ll be there from 6:30–9:30 am but that does mean the roads will be clear and I’ll easily find a parking spot!
Brushstrokes
The art group that I belong to – Brushstrokes – held a successful exhibition on Saturday, 14th November. Here’s a picture of the group on the day.
November 2009
Death is the Cure
Exciting news! My new Victorian mystery: Death is the Cure (which is due out on 31st December) is now available to pre-order from the publisher, Robert Hale Ltd, at a
bargain discount price of £13.29 including postage. This price will hold until the end of January 2010.
You’ll find purchase details at
Robert Hale Ltd
Overseas readers can pre-order from The Book Depository which offers free postage worldwide.
Murder Most Welcome
The first edition of Murder Most Welcome, in which young Victorian widow Charlotte Richmond makes her debut, is still available from Amazon and other online booksellers, as is the Large Print edition. You may prefer to listen to the audio version, which is available from Isis Soundings. You can also borrow all my books from the library. (You can always ask your local library to order a book if it’s not in their catalogue.)
St. Martin in the Woods
On Monday 9th November I’ve been asked to talk about my writing to the afternoon group at our local church, St Martin in the Woods, in Chandlers Ford, Hants. As this was where I used to run a brownie pack, I know where I’m going this time whereas I sometimes have to check out where I’ll be doing a talk, in case I get lost!
Brushstrokes
Saturday, 14th November is going to be a busy but exciting day. I belong to a local art group, Brushstrokes, and we’re having our first ever exhibition on that day. We’re hoping for lots of visitors so do come along to the Age Concern Hall in Chandlers Ford, between 10:00 and 4:00. Besides paintings there will be craft items made by our clever members.
New Project
A new project. I’ve been asked to be one of two tutors on a residential creative writing course early next year. This will be the first time I’ve done anything of the kind so I’m busily doing research and wondering how it will all work out. Further details will appear on here when I have them.
My Next Book
Well, I’ve started it, but it’s not very far along yet, only a couple of chapters. The working title is: The Dead Queen’s Garden but that’s subject to change. As always with the writing the characters just turn up and surprise me and this time I’ve discovered Florence Nightingale making a brief appearance!
September 2009
Murder Most Welcome
The Large Print edition of Murder Most Welcome comes out on 1st September, published by Isis Publishing, and available from Amazon and online booksellers. As with the audio book, you can ask your library to order in the Large Print edition for you.
August 2009
Death is the Cure
10th August: I’ve posted off the proofs of my new book, Death is the Cure. I spotted a couple of awful boobs that I’d made and one or two that came from the publisher, so I’m crossing my fingers that I haven’t overlooked any major errors.
Brushstrokes Art Club
28-30th August: With other members of Brushstrokes Art Club I will be taking part in an exhibition at Crawley Village Hall.
July 2009
Murder Most Welcome
The audio edition of Murder Most Welcome was published by Isis Soundings on 1st July, in cassette, CD and MP3 player formats; the reader is actress, Nicolette McKenzie. You can buy it from Amazon or other online booksellers or ask your public library to order it in for you.
Romantic Novelists’ Association Conference
10-12th July was the Romantic Novelists’ Association Conference in Penrith, Cumbria.
This is my 3rd RNA conference and they’re always great fun. Lots of talks, workshops, gossiping, and
the occasional glass of wine!
Here is a photo of me with fellow author Lizzie Lamb.
I am a reader for the RNA New Writers’ Scheme, which means that every year I receive several unpublished novels for appraisal. I read the manuscript carefully and write a report, usually anything from six to eight pages of detailed analysis as to what works well, giving praise where due, and highlighting the parts where more work is needed. It’s quite difficult but always interesting and I’m always careful not to be unkind, believing firmly in the carrot and stick technique — a little encouragement can go a long way! This year I was delighted to read a book that I felt was good enough to be sent for a second read; if the next reader agrees with me the novel will then be despatched to an agent for consideration, so fingers crossed for the author.
June 2009
Wyvern Writers
Two years ago I was asked if I would talk to the Wyvern Writers writing group based at my local library in Chandlers Ford, the idea being that I would help them to get their short stories closer to publication level. I said yes at once (as I tend to do!) then wondered how on earth I was going to do it. I’ve never done any teaching and didn’t believe that standing in front of a group and lecturing them would work for me, let alone for them, so I suggested that, as it was a small group, they should submit a short story (1000 words max) and I would produce a critique for each one. This worked very well from my point of view and the group assured me that they found it a valuable exercise — they’ve asked me back a couple of times, so I guess it works for them too!
On Friday 12th June I went along to the library for another session, armed with the stories that had been submitted a couple of weeks earlier. The format is that each writer reads aloud her story, then I talk about the things I feel work really well and those that need a bit of a rethink, then they each receive a written report. We had a very interesting session and the members were great at coming up with ideas and strategies to get their work ready for submission to a magazine or competition.
It’s quite time-consuming work but it’s always interesting and useful — I hope they’ll invite me back!
BBC Radio Solent
Friday 5th June I had a brief chat on air with Julian Clegg, presenter of the Breakfast Show on BBC Radio Solent, just updating him on my latest book.
Petersfield Literary Society
That same evening I drove over to Petersfield to give a talk to the Petersfield Literary Society. When they first contacted me they asked me for a title for my talk, so that they could publish their annual programme; I came up with From Marriage to Murder, to reflect my move from writing romantic comedy to cosy crime. This was greeted with amusement and I think we all had an enjoyable evening. I certainly did.
May 2009
Eastleigh Trefoil Guild
On May 11th I did a talk to the Eastleigh Trefoil Guild and really enjoyed myself. The meeting was very lively and the members asked lots of interesting questions. As I am an ex Brown Owl they gave me an extra warm welcome!
Death is the Cure
I’m really pleased to announce that Robert Hale Ltd have accepted my second Victorian mystery: Death is the Cure, to be published in December 2009. This is the second in my cosy mystery series: Charlotte Richmond Investigates … and in this novel Charlotte — a resourceful young widow who was brought up in Australia but now lives in Hampshire — goes off to Bath where she is soon up to her ears in mayhem and murder.
Here’s a short synopsis of the new story:
When Charlotte Richmond’s dearest friend decides to visit Bath for medical treatment, Charlotte, a young
Victorian widow, is delighted to accompany her but the spa town turns out to be far less genteel than she
anticipates. Their fellow guests at elegant Waterloo House seem to be haunted by secrets and Charlotte is soon embroiled in mysteries, mayhem and murder.
When one of the inhabitants of Waterloo House is stabbed to death it is Charlotte who trips over the corpse and begins to ask questions. In the course of her unofficial enquiries her own life is put in peril as she uncovers family secrets of her own and stumbles upon a mystery that could change the course of history.
March 2009
Greyling Bay
I’ve had several short pieces accepted for a Collaborative Fiction blog, Greyling Bay. The idea is that the blog-mistress sets the scene and invites writers to send her short pieces, up to 500 words, telling the story of Greyling Bay, a small town in Wales. It’s an interesting and unusual concept and the town and its characters are gradually coming to life.
Like all blogs, the latest post is at the top, so the best way to read the story so far, is to go back to the beginning. Several writers have now contributed to the blog and the writing styles are all very different. Some of them pick up a character created by another writer and send the story off in a different direction, so it’s always interesting to drop by and see what’s happening.
February 2009
Public Lending Rights
Public Lending Right (PLR) is the right for authors to receive payment under PLR legislation for the loans of their books by public libraries.
To qualify for payment, applicants must apply to register their books with the PLR registrar. Payments are made annually on the basis of loans data collected
from a sample of public libraries in the UK.
PLR is calculated from July to June, based on average library borrowings. Statements
are sent out in January and the money is paid in February.
I was delighted to find that the original paperback of Scuba Dancing was borrowed a
thousand times in that period, and that the Large Print and Audio Editions also had quite a few outings.
January 2009
BBC Radio Solent
I was interviewed about my books — very early in the morning on the 9th — by Julian Clegg, BBC Radio Solent’s Breakfast Show host.
Emsworth Afternoon WI
Emsworth Afternoon WI invited me to talk to them about my books and my writing career on the 27th. They were a very friendly group and told me they enjoyed my talk, which was very kind of them.
News from 2008 — 15 news items
November 2008
Barack Obama wins US election
I contribute occasional articles to an American website, and was pleased to be asked to give my impressions — as a foreigner – on Barack Obama and the effect his election win might have on my own life. Check out the final result on this page at Seniorwomen.com.
Expressfm Interview
I was interviewed briefly about Murder Most Welcome for local radio station Express FM, 93.7, and the presenter let slip that after his interview with me last year I was shortlisted for their Outstanding Achievement Award – in my case for getting my first novel published. Sadly he forgot to let me know at the time !
Southampton Writers’ Circle
I judged the annual Greensleeves Short Story Competition of the Southampton Writers’ Circle, which was very interesting with a high standard of entries. This was the second time they very kindly invited me to adjudicate and although it’s not an easy job, I enjoyed myself very much.
Solent MG Car Owners’ Social Group
I’m booked to talk about being a novelist to the Solent MG Car Owners’ Social Group on November 17th.
October 2008
Chandlers Ford & Itchen Valley Inner Wheel
On October 16th I gave a talk to the Chandlers Ford & Itchen Valley Inner Wheel at a dinner at the Potter’s Heron in Ampfield.
August 2008
BBC Radio Solent
1st August: I’m booked for a telephone interview with Julian Clegg of BBC Radio Solent’s Breakfast Show, to update him on my writing and my books. The interview is due to take place at 6.40 a.m!
Audio rights sold
I’ve just heard that the audio rights to Murder Most Welcome have been sold; I’ll let you know as soon as I find out more.
July 2008
Romantic Novelists’ Association conference
4th-6th July: I attended the Romantic Novelists’ Association conference at the University of Chichester which was both enjoyable and instructive. Lots of helpful workshops on getting published and trying to get your books out in the world once they are published, as well as entertaining talks from best-selling novelists such as Jill Morrell and Jane Wenham-Jones. Besides this there were books to buy, lots of good food and drink and, above all, lots and lots of talking!
Writing Murder Most Welcome
You can read an article about the writing of my latest novel, Murder Most Welcome, on this American website.
Stone Tears Melting
Two years ago I was delighted to have a painting accepted for the Open Exhibition for local artists at the prestigious Southampton Art Gallery. This year’s theme is : The Art of Water and I’m even more thrilled to have done it again! My painting this year is of icicles in a cave and is titled: Stone Tears Melting. You can see my picture on the gallery page.
June 2008
Murder Most Welcome launched !
More than 70 people helped me celebrate the launch of Murder Most Welcome at the Winchester Discovery Centre on 20th June. There was plenty of wine and food on offer, and nearly everyone bought a copy of the book. I even noticed some people buying two at a time ! Take a look at the photos in the gallery page.
Express FM, Portsmouth
On 11th June I was interviewed by Rob Richardson for his writing program on Express FM, 93.7 and talked about both my books.
May 2008
BBC Radio Solent
On 26th May, Bank Holiday Monday, I was invited in to the BBC Radio Solent studio in Southampton to be a ‘sofa guest’ on the Julian Clegg Breakfast Show as I’ve been one of the presenter’s regular ‘Julian’s People’ for a couple of years, since my first novel, Scuba Dancing, came out. It was nice to be able to tell listeners that I’ve turned to crime! I described Murder Most Welcome and talked about writing historical novels and about plotting a murder story. I’ve been booked for a phone interview in August, to tell listeners how the book is doing.
April 2008
Historical Novel Society
Saturday 12th April was the date for the 6th UK conference of the Historical Novel Society, which was held at the National Railway Museum, York. I had a very enjoyable day there, meeting other writers of historical fiction and listening to a number of fascinating speakers.
March 2008
My Weekly to publish “The House”
I was delighted to hear that My Weekly have accepted my ghost story: The House, for publication at a later date. In the 1990s My Weekly regularly published my short stories and in those days they favoured gentle, heart-warming stories; these days, however, they have widened their brief and are now accepting crime, science fiction and ghost stories. The House is a chilling tale of retribution, a long way from the cosy romantic stories I used to write for them and I still shiver each time I read it.
News from 2007 — 15 news items
October 2007
New Book in 2008 !!
I’m delighted to announce that Robert Hale Publishing will be publishing my new historical mystery, “Murder Most Welcome” in May 2008.
“Widowed in the Indian Mutiny, Charlotte Richmond arrives at the Hampshire home of her late husband, Major Frampton Richmond. After an adventurous youth in Australia Charlotte is desperate to settle down and be respectable — but the past catches up with her … ”
Didcot Library
Thursday, 4th October, Didcot, Oxfordshire: I was delighted to be asked to talk to the reading group at Didcot Library as part of Oxfordshire Libraries’ Events Programme.
Fiction Writing Group
Friday, 19th October, Chandlers Ford Library: I was really touched to be invited on a return visit to my local library’s Fiction Group. In May I held a short story workshop with them which was hard work, but great fun and, as always, useful to me when doing my own writing. I was so pleased that they felt my comments were helpful and I’m looking forward to working with them again.
Blackpool Wordpool Festival
Friday,12th October, Blackpool Wordpool Festival: I have been asked to speak to the reading group at Layton Library in Blackpool as part of their Wordpool Festival, celebrating the written word. We’ve never been to Blackpool so we’re off to see the Illuminations and fit in a ride on the East Lancs Railway, as well as exploring some National Trust properties in the North West.
Summer 2007
I haven’t been idle though sadly there’s been no news of a book deal from anywhere! My sequel to Scuba Dancing went to Transita but after a very long wait they told me that, although they really liked it, they couldn’t commit to publication just yet, so “Invisible Mending” is back in its drawer as my agent feels it’s too closely connected to Scuba to stand alone. In the meantime my agent has had some terrific comments on my Victorian murder mystery, “What Will Become of Poor Dear Charlotte” but so far nobody has come up with an offer. It’s all very disappointing but I do know that publishing is really in the doldrums so I’m beavering on with a Midsomer Murders kind of crime story: “The Oompah Band”.
As a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association I have cause to be hugely grateful to their New Writers’ Scheme (NWS) where an unpublished novelist may submit her manuscript for a critical appraisal at far less cost than is usual commercially. Once Scuba Dancing was published I became eligible to be a reader for the NWS and was only too happy to agree as I wanted to put something back into a scheme that had been such a help to me. Last year I did two appraisals and found them both enjoyable, and helpful in my own work - it’s much easier to spot someone else’s mistakes, and to realise you’re doing the same thing!
This year I’ve done six appraisals for the scheme and found the whole exercise fascinating. I worked on romantic suspense, romantic comedy and - my particular favourite kind of novel - historical. All of the manuscripts needed, I felt, a great deal of work to bring them up to publication standard, but one stood out - a novel set during the Napoleonic Wars. If and when it’s published I shall claim a hand in it!
July 2007
Romantic Novelists’ Association
I’ve been a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association for many years but I’ve never made it to their annual conference. This year is different though, I’m booked in at Leicester University for the whole weekend, 4th-9th July, not as a speaker but as a member, and I’m looking forward to meeting old friends and making new ones.
Fordingbridge Festival
On Monday, 16th July I’ll be speaking, along with three other Transita authors, at the Fordingbridge Festival. We will be starting at 7pm. at Forres Sandle Manor School, Sandleheath. More details of our session can be found here under Literature.
June 2007
Bournemouth Literary Festival
I’ve been invited to speak at the Bournemouth Literary Festival at a Chocolate & Wine reception on Saturday, 30th June. As I was brought up just down the road from the venue, Bournemouth University Talbot Campus, I’m really looking forward to this - and the chocolate and wine sound promising too.
May 2007
Fiction Writing Group
On Friday, 11th May I talked to the Fiction Writing Group at Chandlers Ford Library, giving them advice on how to bring their short stories up to publication standard. I handed out a Ten Point Check List to go through before sending off a story to a magazine and some members of the group submitted a short story for critique. We discussed my Check List and went through the submitted stories, highlighting the good, the bad and the ugly! It wasn’t a competition but they assured me they found it helpful - it’s always much easier to spot errors in someone else’s work! They’ve very kindly invited me back for a second workshop in October when I've asked them to submit a very short story (600-800 words) targeting a specific magazine; I’ve very meanly refused to tell them which magazine I have in mind, but told them it’s not one of the ususal ones!)
Romantic Novelists’ Association
Wednesday, 30th May was the Summer Party of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, held in the impressive panelled library of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers. I don’t feel as shy about these parties as I used to, now that I know quite a few other members, but it’s nice to spot famous authors and I was intrigued to find I was chatting to comedian Helen Lederer who has recently joined the RNA and is writing a romantic novel. She looked a bit daunted when I told her I’d been doing appraisals of some manuscripts for the RNA’s New Writers’ Scheme and that all new writers have to go through this ordeal (ie having their book read and critiqued for the scheme), but I’m sure her book will be fun.
Unity 101 Community Radio
I’ve been invited to appear on March 21st in the early afternoon, on Unity 101 Community Radio, the South’s only Asian and ethnic radio station, which is based in Southampton.
The invitation turned up courtesy of the Southampton Writers’ Circle whose short story competition I judged in November and I’m delighted they thought of me.
The programme will be primarily about writing circles but also about writing in general, which is where I come in. It’ll be a new experience and I think it’ll be fun.
April 2007
Romantic Novelists’ Association
I had a great time at the Romantic Novelists’ Association lunch at the Savoy Hotel on 27th April, meeting up with two members of the online writing group I belong to, as well as some of the other Transita authors. Everyone dressed to impress and managed to live up to the surroundings and lunch was very good, even if the cost of a bottle of house red shared by three of us was enough to make our eyes water!
March 2007
Express FM, Portsmouth
I turned up on local radio twice during March which was great fun. I did a short interview with Chris Perry, Director of Age Concern, Hampshire, for his new radio programme on Express FM, 93.7. He interviewed me in my kitchen and gave Scuba Dancing a terrific plug during his programme on Active Retirement - I tried to be discreet about exactly how active some of the characters in my book actually are!
Unity 101 Community Radio
About a week or so later I met up with members of the Southampton Writers' Circle and we did a live programme at Unity 101 Radio, the South’s only Asian and ethnic radio station. The topic was Writing Groups, about which I know very little, but that didn't stop me talking! It was great fun and I donated a signed copy of Scuba Dancing for a competition the station will be running.
February 2007
My Weekly magazine
All through the 1990s I regularly had short stories published in My Weekly, in fact the two stories on this website originally appeared in the magazine.
About eighteen months ago the Fiction Editor contacted me to ask if I’d mind two of the stories being republished in a Best of My Weekly annual. Of course I said I’d be delighted, pocketed the payment, and forgot about it – until the other day when I walked into a shop in Winchester and spotted Best of My Weekly 2007. The usual drill is that the author is sent a prepublication copy but obviously something went adrift because there they were, my two short stories. Naturally I bought a couple of copies – it isn’t every day you spot a book on sale and realise you wrote it! (Or at least, contributed to it.)
January 2007
SeniorWomen.com
My first two articles have gone down well on the American website, SeniorWomen.com so the editor has asked me to write a piece roughly every month.
The latest is called Literary Tourism and is up on the SeniorWomen.com website, just click on What’s New or alternatively, on Authors. I’m very honoured to have been asked to contribute; this is an international website and writing non-fiction is something new for me which I’m enjoying.
News from 2006 — 17 news items
December 2006
Oxford Bookcrossing Event
If you’re in Oxford on Saturday 9th December come along to the Oxford Bookcrossing Event, which takes place in The Long Room at Oxford Town Hall between 2:00pm and 5:30 pm.
Entry is free and you’ll be able to hear readings by a selection of Transita authors.
If you'd like to hear me read from Scuba Dancing be sure to be there between 4:45pm and 5:00pm.
Southampton Writers’ Circle
I had a great time at the meeting of the Southampton Writers’ Circle last month. After I spoke to them in February this year they invited me to judge their annual Short Story Competition and, although it was something I hadn’t previously done, I found it fascinating and rewarding and, to judge from their responses, so did the writers.
“Thank you so much for your encouragement and your suggestions which are both welcomed and practical - they really work! So many possibilities, I’m thinking fit to bust!”
“Thank you for your efforts in judging our work, I realise it must have taken a substantial amount of your time and I do think that your method of praise and improvement is valid. It's always good to have the opinion of someone you respect.”
October 2006
Large Print edition of Scuba Dancing
The large print edition of Scuba Dancing was published in September. You can order a copy from your usual bookseller, or order by post or phone from Isis Publishing.
Short story in Woman’s Way
Woman’s Way, Ireland’s leading women’s weekly magazine, is running a short story of mine entitled “Lilac Time” in their 4th October 2006 edition.
Article in Seniorwomen.com
Seniorwomen.com, a site meant for women over 50, is running an article of mine called “Tap Dancing for the Unwary”. You can read it here.
BBC Radio Solent
On 7th November I’m back on BBC Radio Solent, talking to Julian Clegg on his “Julian’s People” show. I can’t believe it’s over a year since I first appeared on Julian’s show.
Southampton Writers’ Circle
On 28th November I’m judging a short story competition for the Southampton Writers’ Circle.
July 2006
Audio book of Scuba Dancing
The audio book version of Scuba Dancing is now available - you can hear a short excerpt read by Hilary Neville. You can order a copy from your usual bookseller, or order direct from the publisher at Isis Publishing.
National Register talk
I’ve been invited to give a talk about writing to a local National Register group on Thursday 20th.
Hiltingbury Community Association
I am also appearing at the Hiltingbury Community Association this month where the talk will be about “life as a new author and how to get published”.
May 2006
Itchen Valley Probus Ladies
Tuesday, 9th May: talking to Itchen Valley Probus Ladies, at the Kingscourt restaurant, Chandlers Ford.
April 2006
CREATE: Reading & Writing Events in Eastleigh Area Libraries
When I volunteered to talk to the Reading Group attached to Eastleigh Library I had no idea I was sparking off something very like a mini literary festival in the borough of Eastleigh! Inspired by my offer the libraries have organised a series of talks and workshops at local libraries throughout April, inviting writers and poets to participate.
My talk to the Eastleigh Reading Group was great fun; there were twelve members and they had all read Scuba Dancing as their book of the month so they knew as much about it as I do and we had a good discussion about the issues raised in the book - the loves and lives of older women, romance in middle-age, the predicament so many women find themselves in, when caring for elderly and infirm parents. They were all very interesting and I had a great time.
My next talk under the CREATE umbrella will be on Wednesday, 12th April, at 2.30-3.30, at Chandlers Ford Library and will be open to the public - no charge, no tickets, no booking, just turn up!
March 2006
Large Print edition of Scuba Dancing
Following on from my earlier news about the audio version of Scuba Dancing (see January 2006) Transita have now sold the Large Print rights to Scuba Dancing. It should be available next Spring / Summer - I’ll keep you posted on progress.
Poppies in Tuscany
I entered my painting of Poppies in Tuscany in an art exhibition at the 3rd Age Centre, Southampton † and was very pleased to win a runner up prize and was Highly Commended.
†3rd Age Centre is an independent charity providing healthy living, education, activities, arts, technology and resources for Southampton’s active over 50 community.
February 2006
City Art Gallery, Southampton
A painting of mine, a collage based on an original acrylic, is on display at the Art of Pattern Exhibition at the City Art Gallery, Southampton Civic Centre. The exhibition is open from February 3rd to March 26th. It's a great honour as this is a prestigious gallery. Take a look at the art page to see the painting.
Here's the picture 'in miniature'.
January 2006
Audio book of Scuba Dancing
I’m delighted to announce that the audio book rights to Scuba Dancing have been sold and the audio book should be available late summer/early autumn this year.
Talk at Tangent
I gave a talk to the Eastleigh & Chandlers Ford branch of Tangent, discussing their views on the idea of books targeting women in later life.
News from 2005 — 14 news items
Christmas 2005
Christmas Party
I was invited to the Christmas Party of the BBC Radio Solent Breakfast Show and although I’ve never been to a party at seven in the morning before, it was great fun, with coffee and mince pies and lots of interesting people.
November 2005
Hampshire View / Wiltshire View
Local magazine, the Hampshire View, will carry an article by me, outlining how my life has altered since the acceptance of my first novel. It will also appear in the Wiltshire View magazine and will have some photographs - I hate having my photo taken so it’s always difficult to find one that doesn't look as if I’m about to bite the photographer!
BBC Radio Solent
On Wednesday, 9th November, I'm booked for the follow-up chat on BBC Radio Solent, as one of Julian’s People. Even if it's another early slot I shan’t be so nervous now I know what to expect.
October 2005
BBC Radio Solent
My first radio interview with Julian Clegg (27th September) went well in spite of taking place at 6.40 am, never my best time of day! Julian asked me about my writing and about Scuba Dancing as well as my assorted grandchildren and the cat and my husband also got a mention. Apparently BBC Radio Solent had loads of calls later, asking where to buy the book, which is great news.
About ten days later I had a call from Julian’s producer asking if I would go in to the studio the next morning and take part in a discussion about the plight of small bookshops, as highlighted by Alan Bennett at the Cheltenham Literary Festival. I’d said yes and put the phone down before I had time to wonder what on earth I was going to say but luckily a daughter was visiting, plus a friend with her daughter, so we cobbled together some reasonably intelligent-sounding comments. My main dread was that I’d sound like the girl on the Harry Enfield show: ‘I don’t know anything about clever things like that, but I do love fluffy little kittens.’
My husband was dying to see the inside of a studio so he drove and had a fascinating time in the outer office being plied with coffee by the various reporters and production team, while I chatted on air with Julian Clegg, a local bookshop owner and - on the phone - Giles Lewis from Transita, who was putting the small publisher’s point of view. There was so much feedback from listeners that Julian ditched half his planned programme and continued the discussion till the end at 9.00 am. It was great fun and I couldn’t believe how many plugs for Scuba Dancing and Transita that Giles and I managed to shoehorn in, and when we flagged, Julian did it for us!
Bishops Waltham Jubilee Writing Circle
Also in October I was invited to talk the the Bishops Waltham Jubilee Writing Circle which was a very enjoyable evening. They were a lively bunch and we carried on the discussion in the local wine bar which seemed a very civilised way to end the evening. They even bought some books too!
September 2005
BBC Radio Solent
Presenter Julian Clegg on BBC Radio Solent has a regular slot called Julian’s People in which he follows the progress of listeners with an interesting story over an extended period. I’ve been invited to become one of Julian’s People, starting Tuesday, 27th September, on his Breakfast Show. I’m delighted about this because Julian is very popular and it will gain a wider audience for Scuba Dancing.
He will follow the story with another chat every six to eight weeks.
SCUBA DANCING in the media
Scuba Dancing has received some attention from the national press which is very good news.
Besides a mention on Radio 4’s Open Book programme about Transita, there was a quote in the Guardian Unlimited Books section: ‘Miss Read meets the Vicar of Dibley in this sparkling debut novel of village life’.
Saga Magazine had a very nice article about Transita and the Vicar of Dibley popped up again - ‘A Vicar of Dibley-esque comic look at English village life’. Saga have also chosen Scuba Dancing to feature in their online shop which is a terrific boost.
Appearances
I now have bookings right into next February which is wonderful.
I love talking to women’s groups and writing circles and, of course, their members usually like to buy a signed copy of Scuba Dancing, so word gets around!
August 2005
SCUBA DANCING around the world!
I was amused and thrilled to discover that Scuba Dancing is popping up in libraries across the world. It is stocked by the Wellington City Library in New Zealand and when I emailed them to say thank you they responded by saying they would feature the book on the Seniors page of their website.
It’s now turned up in the library at Marion, South Australia. I wonder what they’ll make of such an English story? Will it be expats who like it best or will it have sheer novelty value in the Southern Hemisphere?
Hampshire Libraries
After people commented to me that the copies of Scuba Dancing are always on loan, I approached the Fiction Buyer for the Library Service and she has ordered a further ten copies.
June 2005
Appearances
I’ve done several talks to women’s groups and writers’ circles, which were very successful and I’m booked for more.
I’d be happy if you’d like me to talk to your local group. Just send me an e-mail.
I took part in Transita’s first online discussion group - answering readers’ questions about Scuba Dancing - this was great fun although the Transita office suffered from a fierce thunderstorm and ended up with a flood and a power cut.
April 2005
My Next Book
I am delighted to have signed up with a top London literary agent. She will be handling my latest book - a Victorian mystery set in 1858.
Speaking Engagement
I am pleased to have been asked to give a talk at the second meeting of a local writers' circle in early May.
March 2005
Award Nomination
I am thrilled to have been nominated by the Romantic Novelist Association for their New Writers’ Scheme Award.
The RNA have run their New Writers’ Scheme to encourage fresh talent in the world of women's fiction since 1962.
