Uncategorized

This is my fifth book. As I mentioned before, my first draft is done, but I am taking on feedback from my beta readers. One in particular has sent me a very detailed report on his findings, and as aa established author, I am taking his points very seriously. This has resulted in a major…

The thorny issue of assisted suicide has reared its head in the media once again. It is still illegal in the UK although the authorities often close their eyes to the practice which started when we were all living in caves and still continues to this day. The topic is even more relevant in times…

My maternal grandparents were the inspiration for this book. They were both doctors and surgeons: She was trained in Edinburgh, where “lady doctors” were despised and mistrusted, and the conditions were tough. He was trained in Dublin. Both of them were opinionated and passionate about their calling, and an inevitable clash of personalities ensued. They fought…

I am always amazed how people, even in the direst situations, insist on celebrating Christmas. In 1915, the British Indian army was trapped in a bend of the River Tigris by the Ottomans, and bombarded endlessly. By Christmas 1915 they had been under siege three weeks and were sheltering in one of the many trenches…

I love to speak to groups of people about my books and the history of those times. I don’t charge but normally bring some books along in the hope of selling a couple and hope my expenses are covered. If not I don’t worry. I speak to all kinds of groups, Rotary, Round Table, Women’s Institute,…

Over the past 30 plus years I have worked with the Poppy Factory, where in addition to making poppies and wreathes each year for Remembrance, also helps thousands of ex-Service men and women with health conditions into meaningful work. I have had the privilege of meeting and helping many hundreds of veterans, and finding them…

I’m still quite new to writing and there is so much to learn. Its hard to imagine the time it takes to write a book, but actually the other activities take much more time. Research involves reading many books so that your stories are historically accurate and realistic. If you are a self-publisher you need…

Magnum Opus, my fifth book, is taking most of my free time. I am reacting to critiques from “Beta” readers who are kindly giving feedback. I don’t need of course to take their advice, but would be stupid to take no notice. Some of the readers are experienced authors. I have taken plenty of notice!…

This was a great story to research and write. The London Blitz was more horrific than many realise today. The docks and factories were bombed remorselessly and many of the people who worked there lived nearby. Many lost their houses and were killed alongside their families. The Blitz lasted 8 long months. The government of…

The main historical event in this book is the Battle of Kut The British and Indian Army were advancing up the River Tigris towards Baghdad when the Ottomans managed to trap them in a bend of the river. Incredibly the siege lasted 5 months until the trapped Army were starved into surrender. Only the seriously…