Politically Correct

(gratuitous photo of puppies in a basket, for added cuteness)

The year is well underway, and there have been all sorts of political shenanigans across the pond, being discussed on social media, so I'm keeping this a political-free zone, and will be talking about ME instead (just for a change.)

So far, I've had a birthday, finished the second draft of novel 2, and sold a handful of stories, so not a bad start in all. Apart from being another year older - but as I've been 38 for some time now, it could be worse (and is, in reality, but I'm in denial.)

If someone had told me this time last year that I would have parted ways with my agent - sadly it ended not very nicely, she was very rude - been signed up by an award-winning digital publisher (they've sold 8 million books to date), written two books, both due to launch in the next couple months, and be about to start a third, I'd have told them they were very, very wrong - that it wasn't possible.

But it's happened, and it shows that you never know what's around the corner. I was drifting along at the time, not sure what direction to take writing-wise, when the opportunity to pen a series of 3 romantic comedies came along. To be honest, at first, I wasn't sure I could 'write to order', plus I'd written a psychological thriller, which was a big departure from my three previous novels, but I figured I'd be crazy not to at least give it go - especially considering how well existing Bookouture authors were doing.

And I'm so glad I did, as although it's been hard work, with tight deadlines, it's been a fulfilling and thoroughly enjoyable experience, and being in the hands of experts, has been an absolute dream. If my books fail, it won't be for want of trying on their part, that's for sure.

I was lucky enough to meet the Bookouture team just before Christmas, and they really are a passionate and dedicated bunch, who believe in giving their authors the attention they feel they deserve - something they feel can be lacking with some of the large publishing houses, which tend to focus on the top 5% of their authors. This is something I'd experienced myself, and there's a lot to be said for not being a teeny-tiny fish (smaller than a tadpole, even) in a mighty ocean.

Mind you, Bookouture are expanding rapidly, so this time next year things might have turned on their head, but for now, I'm going to enjoy the ride.

In a couple of weeks, I'll be holding actual printed copies of my first book in my hand, which - after more than eight years of writing - really will be a dream come true.

Hope you've all had a good start to your year (political shenanigans across the pond notwithstanding.)