Glynis Smy - Author of Historical Romance/Suspense

Things I have Learned Since Book Launch

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Wed, 30 May 2012 07:18:10 PDT

This past few weeks since the launch of Ripper, My Love, I have learned so many new things. One is that I do prefer silence while writing. I never took much notice before, but my mother came to stay and while I was writing my mind was also fixed on listening to her chat to DH or the animals. I found I could not concentrate. I think when there is only DH around, he is in the aviary or garden, so the house is silent. I do enjoy a little music when I need emotional inspiration. However, it appears silence is the order of the day.

I learned I feel guilty about not getting around many blogs recently. I am adjusting my routine in order to relinquish that feeling.

Something else I learned was that I have become nervous when I see the sales of my book rise. Crazy? I know, but it is the thought that someone is reading my efforts. I also learned, I love the feeling of good reviews, and the taste of pink champagne.

Did you know that even the big time authors are not happy with their lot, and want to become Indie authors? Well I didn't until I read this article. Quite an eye opener. Do take five minutes to read.

She's a redhead now :)

Talking of Indie authors. Did you know that someone doesn't like us using that title? Talli Roland has written a very good article: What's in a name? Slip over and read who it is that objects to the title Indie Author.

I also learned that I had gained over 100 new followers on Twitter! The majority are authors and publishers, with an agent and editor thrown in. My sales increase when I Tweet about my book too! Something I vowed I would not do often, but now I find everyone is doing the same, so I tweet out once or twice a day. Twitter is a great marketing tool for authors.

Learning I have Klout was another find! What on earth is Klout? I asked a fellow writer. It records what influence you have in the marketing/social networks in relation to certain topics. Apparently I have influence over others in the field of Kindle, ebooks and other writing related things.
The Klout Score measures influence based on your ability to drive action. Every time you create content or engage you influence others. The Klout Score uses data from social networks in order to measure:

True Reach: How many people you influence
Amplification: How much you influence them
Network Impact: The influence of your network

What did I learn from Klout? Networking is worth the effort.

I also learned my husband wants to read a sequel to Ripper, My Love! For a man who doesn't read books, I was taken aback by his announcement. He said that men could enjoy the book as much as women, and he was completely captivated by my characters. He wanted me to know that he was relaying his thoughts as a reader, and not as my husband. So I have learned to pull out an old plot idea. To lose a character's name and to revive another. Ripped Genes will be written and the ideas have flooded in this week. This month I learned I really want to be an author and now have a responsibility to keep writing for at least one reader in my life!

When Dreams Come True

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 28 May 2012 00:18:58 PDT

When Dreams Come True...Rebecca Emin.

Rebecca wants to know what our dreams are on a day that sees another of hers come true. To be honest all I want is for everyone to obtain their dreams. This past week has been amazing for me. The reviews for Ripper, My Love have completed my dream. I am an author with positive reviews.

So is Rebecca. I enjoyed New Beginnings, and have read When Dreams Come True. Both books are well written and enjoyable. I know they are being well received by the young readers they target. Congratulations, Rebecca!

When Dreams Come True:

Charlie is happiest when biking with Max and Toby, or watching films with Allie. But when Charlie reaches year nine (age 13), everything begins to change.

As her friends develop new interests, Charlie's dreams become more frequent and vivid, and a family crisis tears her away from her friends.

How will Charlie react when old family secrets are revealed? Will her life change completely when some of her dreams start to come true?

Purchase a copy from:

Amazon.co.uk:

Amazon.com

Smashwords

The Book Depository

Barnes &Noble

Find Rebecca and congratulate her over at her blog: http://ramblingsofarustywriter.blogspot.co.uk/

Twitter : www.twitter.com/RebeccaEmin. Go on, make her dream come true and Tweet it out. Oh and please use the hashtag #WDCT it will make Rebecca smile all day long!

So what is your dream? What would make your dream come true? Rebecca and I would love to know!

Sunday's Child book launch by Anne Lyken Garner

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 21 May 2012 23:25:48 PDT

Anne and I met at the start of my writing journey. I am pleased to help her launch her book today! Congratulations Anne!

ANNE LYKEN-GARNER is the author of Sunday's Child - the inspiring, true tale of a little girl struggling to rise above appalling living conditions, poverty, violence and abuse.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Sunday's Child tells of the harrowing systematic abuse of a little girl by her grandmother, while giving the reader a glimpse of the political and cultural climate of 1980's Guyana.
In a desperate economic crisis, Guyana is forced to resort to food and energy rationing. Acclaimed author Anne Lyken-Garner's tale picks up on the humorous aspects that the young girl experiences while forced to spend hours in food lines, simultaneously unfolding the sadness and desperation that is her everyday life.

A soldier in Jonestown, where more than nine hundred people committed mass suicide, the young girl's uncle tells her of the dead bodies he's seen - but she doesn't mention the one that she herself has witnessed. When she loses the one person in her life who cares for her - and tries to save her - she knows in her heart that her life is about to end...

Sunday's Child will be released on March 22nd. Please go to the author page on release day to purchase this book:http://www.pulsepub.net/Anne_Lyken-Garner.html

Anne can also be found on her How To Build Confidence blog (http://getconfidence.net) All her confidence-building articles here are gleaned from her life's experiences, which have taught her that your past doesn't' have to shape who you are today. Anne has also started an event on Facebook towards this release. You can join this event at the link below to ask her any questions about anything relating to Sunday's Child or her publishing journey. Event: http://www.facebook.com/events/385124968204320/

WHERE AND HOW TO BUY
Sunday's Child is available as a Kindle download from Amazon and a Nook download from Barnes & Noble. It will also be available in PDF and EPUB format from Pulse (the publishers) online bookstore. The PDF version will be viewable on all PC and laptop systems, as well as smart phones, and the EPUB version will be viewable on all eReaders (Kindle, Nook, iPad, Sony Reader, BlackBerry Playbook, etc.). No matter which particular platform they prefer, they will be able to read a copy in a wide variety of different electronic formats, all for only $2.99.

Message from Anne

A special discount allows you to purchase an electronic copy (EPUB or PDF) for only $1.99, using the promo code: FFSCALG Simply enter the code in the appropriate field while ordering a copy of Sunday's Child from Pulse online bookstore:http://www.shop.pulsepub.net This is basically the gist of it. There's more detail on the facebook event page where people who're interested in the book or the publishing process can stop by for a chat with me on May 22nd. I'll be there to answer any questions they may have.

Book Launch: Changing The Future by Paula Martin

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Thu, 17 May 2012 10:48:22 PDT

Celebrating the book launch of Paula Martin! Please go and wish her good luck! ( I am a couple of days late, but I have mother staying so am limited on posting time).

Lisa Marshall is stunned when celebrated volcanologist Paul Hamilton comes back into her life at the college where she now teaches. Despite their acrimonious break-up several years earlier, they soon realise the magnetic attraction between them is stronger than ever. However, the past is still part of the present, not least when Paul discovers Lisa has a young son. They can’t change that past, but will it take a volcanic eruption to help them change the future?

Buy links are:

(USA)

Amazon

(UK)

Amazon

Author Website

Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 14 May 2012 13:20:43 PDT

One week on from the book launch, I am thrilled with the response.

As promised on launch day, I have a prize of two free copies of Maggie's Child - ebook - due in December.

The names out of the hat are: *Drum Roll*

Because there was such a fantastic response to Ripper, My Love, I decided to add two more prizes of Maggie's Child - ebook. (All prizes will be sent out in December).

*Drum Roll*

So there you have it, four prize winners of Maggie's Child - my historical romance due in December.

Random Act of Kindness BLITZ!

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 14 May 2012 01:19:06 PDT

A smile. An encouraging word. A thoughtful gesture. Each day people interact with us, help, and make our day a bit brighter and full. This is especially true in the Writing Community.

Take a second to think about writers you know, like the critique partner who works with you to improve your manuscript. The writing friend who listens, supports and keeps you strong when times are tough. The author who generously offers council, advice and inspiration when asked.

So many people take the time to make us feel special, don't they? They comment on our blogs, re-tweet our posts, chat with us on forums and wish us Happy Birthday on Facebook.

Kindness ROCKS!
To commemorate the release of their book
The Emotion Thesaurus, Becca and Angela at The Bookshelf Muse are hosting a TITANIC Random Act Of Kindness BLITZ. And because I think KINDNESS is contagious, I'm participating too!

** You will not be surprised to read that I have selected
Talli Roland to surprise today. Her support during the writing of Ripper, My Love, was more than a random act of kindness. She gave up precious writing time to guide me through difficult times. Her guidance through Maggie's Child has been amazing. Nothing appears to be too much trouble. She probably swears like crazy when she sees an email starting with 'Hello from Cyprus', but it never shows in the replies back to me.

If you have a minute, please stop in and tell her how awesome she is!
*********************************************************************************
Dear Talli,
My gift for you will be a signed copy of every book I ever write.
X

*Gift or punishment? You decide - LOL*
*********************************************************************************
Do you know someone special that you'd like to randomly acknowledge? Don't be shy--come join us and celebrate! Send them an email, give them a shout out, or show your appreciation in another way. Kindness makes the world go round. :)

Becca and Angela have a special RAOK gift waiting for you as well, so hop on over to The Bookshelf Muse to pick it up.

Have you ever participated in or been the recipient of a Random Act Of Kindness? Let me know in the comments!

Heroines With Hearts are hosting me...go look

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Sun, 13 May 2012 10:19:41 PDT

I am over at Heroines With Hearts thanks to the lovely Paula Martin. The blog has great posts and on a Friday (I know, I am two days late - blame visitors), they have a friend over to share. This week is was little ol' me.

They Touched My Heart - Book Reviews for Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Sat, 12 May 2012 09:16:10 PDT

Not family reviews!

5.0 out of 5 stars Charming and Splendid, May 10, 2012

K. Meador - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: Ripper, My Love (Kindle Edition)

Ahh to fall in love with a story - this is exactly what happened as I met Kitty, Sarah, Arthur, James and Patrick. Kitty is the woman you just love to love and Sarah is too! I even fell in love with Sally...and then heartbroken at her situation. Arthur, James and Patrick are all vying for the affections of Kitty leading to a story that grabs your attention, holds it and delivers the warm fuzzy feeling as you read the last words....Now, I can't say too much more because then I would ruin it but I do have to say this: It is a wonderful story written by a talented writer - Good Job Glynis Smy on your debut novel! And I am looking forward to reading "Maggie's Child" later this year after it is released!

5.0 out of 5 stars I loved this book!, May 8, 2012

Roberta Kagan - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: Ripper, My Love (Kindle Edition)

What an awesome read! I felt like I was transported back to Old England to the impoverished section of Whitechapel. The imagery is so strong that you will feel as if you are walking through the dirty streets of London. I could sense the danger lurking in every corner. Kitty, the main character is well developed and you really come to know her as she brings you into her world. She is a strong young woman and the reader feels as if she is with Kitty as Kitty branches out taking steps necessary to survive and improve her life. There are some serious surprises that will shock you. I am trying to be careful not to give any spoilers away. But I will tell you that this is a great read. It kept my interest and caused me to stay up far too late one night because I couldn't put it down.

5.0 out of 5 stars Ripping yarn!, May 7, 2012

JEANNE - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: Ripper, My Love (Kindle Edition)

I was totally drawn into the world of this book. Love the heroine, Kitty and especially liked the accounts of her branching out on her own and setting up shop as a seamstress. Lots of what I like in historical fiction-great detail and atmosphere, very credible characters. And, just as you would hope for in a tale of Jack the Ripper, plenty of dank alleys and 'mustard' coloured fog.

5.0 out of 5 stars A Wonderful Debut, 7 May 2012 By Marsha Moore (London, UK) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME) This review is from: Ripper, My Love (Kindle Edition) If you've ever thought historical novels are a little bit boring, you really must give this a go -- it's anything but dull! Combining fiction with reality, Smy creates a story with plenty of twists and turns, along with characters you can't help but love or hate in equal measures. I enjoyed the strong, independent heroine who refuses to bow to convention and even sets up her own successful business. Using colourful language, the world of East London comes to life, and you can almost taste the fear and unease that wraps itself around this novel.A wonderful debut, and I can't wait to read more from this author. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews Was this review helpful to you? Yes No Report abuse | Permalink Comment

Comment 5.0 out of 5 stars Tragedy, Drama and Suspense - Who Could Ask for More?, 6 May 2012 By J. Schutrups - See all my reviews (REAL NAME) Amazon Verified Purchase(What is this?) This review is from: Ripper, My Love (Kindle Edition) This is not your standard Jack the Ripper story. It's much more than that, romance, tragedy and thriller. It has the added bonus of having a twist to the tale and you don't even have to wait till the end for it. A wonderful walk through the streets of Vicorian London giving a flavour of life then. But all is not as it seems, danger lurkes in familiar places and secrets are buried deep. The suspense and tension build and just when you thought you knew what was coming next...your wrong. Any more would spoil the story so read it and see what I mean! A great read and one I would highly recommend.

4.0 out of 5 stars Chick Lit, or a roaring good adventure yarn?, 2 May 2012

Richard - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What is this?)

This review is from: Ripper, My Love (Kindle Edition)

I bought Ripper, My Love, not sure whether it was a Chick Lit book (yet another) and therefore probably not for me, or was it something more appealing to the Man in the Street (i.e. me!). The answer is ... both. Lovers of a good romance story that has adventure, twists and turns at every opportunity will love Glynis Smy's book. I loved it because it was so evocative of Victorian England at the end of the nineteenth century (smell the swirling fog!) and the reign of the enigmatic Jack the Ripper with no punches pulled. Kitty, the heroine is far from a silly innocent. Innocent she may be, but she has character and warmth, as well as a wish for independence, that in the Ripper's part of London was inviting horrors of all kinds. The people Kitty meets, mostly men (moths to a flame?), Arthur and James for instance, interact well with her as a result of Glynis Smy's skillful writing and the situations she puts her characters in.

I've tried not to spoil anything plot-wise and I would certainly recommend reading,Ripper, My Love.

4.0 out of 5 stars History without being history., 1 May 2012

Jessica Bell (Greece) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)

This review is from: Ripper, My Love (Kindle Edition)

I began reading this book unaware that it had anything to do with Jack the Ripper and by the time I got to the chapter where he is mentioned I got quite a surprise! (Don't worry, this isn't a spoiler :o). I don't know much about Jack the Ripper so I had to look him up.

However, those who are familiar with Jack trivia, please don't be put off--it's not your average "boring retelling", because it doesn't stay true to the "facts"--it' wasn't written for that purpose. You see, it's not really about Jack the Ripper at all. It's a fictional account about the other people in his life. I won't go into whom because it might spoil some things. But intriguing concept, yes?

The beginning might be a bit slow for some, (not for me, though, as I don't read books just to get them finished), because it does a fine job of building character. But by around a third of the way through it really began to pick up pace. I read the last half of the book in half the time I read the first half. The world was believable. Some moments left me holding my breath. Some moments left me teary (especially toward the end), and for a person who doesn't often read this genre, it was a smooth and enjoyable hit of "history".

I highly recommend this. It's history without being history. Gotta love that, yeah?

Celebrations Continue and Thank You

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Tue, 08 May 2012 06:08:53 PDT

May I take this opportunity to thank everyone who helped support me yesterday. From bloggers, Tweeters, Facebook friends, The Important Ones, strangers who purchased, emailers with kind words...just the whole world!

Thank You

My launch day was a wonderful experience, and the feedback about the cover and contents was just overwhelming.

I had fun looking at the ranking on Kindle @ Amazon.com and co.uk.

Midnight 6th May my ranking on Kindle Paid US was: #214,245 and the UK: 619,046

Midnight 7th May US: #29,300 UK: 3,924

This morning the UK was the same and the US is now showing: Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #14,353 Paid in Kindle Store

I do not worry about stats and figures, but these ones made me smile. Just knowing folk were out there buying my book.

Therefore, in order to celebrate my celebrations, I am leaving the book at 99c/77p for another week!

Don't forget to comment on my launch post and get your name in my sunhat. You could win a Kindle copy of my next book. Maggie's Child...due in December (love saying that tagline!).

The plan:

Maggie's Child: December 2012

The Man in Room Eighteen (current WIP) 2013 possible May Launch

Ripped Genes (sequel to Ripper, My Love) might be written. Feedback has brought Kitty alive again for me, and I am contemplating writing the book I tucked in the back of my mind.

Book Launch...well copping porks, Ripper, My Love goes live!

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 07 May 2012 05:29:55 PDT

Well copping porks!

I am all in a tizzy. Today I can add author/novelist to my name. My debut novel; Ripper, My Love, is launched in ebook format and paperback. The genre for this love story falls into the one of Historical Romance Suspense.

May I take this moment to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Without your encouragement and support, I wouldn't be at this stage in my life. I would still be wondering if I can make it as a writer.

Growing up in late nineteenth century East London, Kitty Harper’s life is filled with danger and death – from her mother, her beloved neighbour and the working women of the streets.

With her ever-watchful father and living surrogate family though, Kitty feels protected from harm. In fact, she feels so safe that while Whitechapel cowers under the cloud of a fearsome murderer, she strikes out on her own, moving into new premises to accommodate her sewing business.

But danger is closer than she thinks. In truth, it has burrowed itself right into her heart in the form of a handsome yet troubled bachelor, threatening everything she holds dear. Will Kitty fall prey to lust – and death – herself, or can she find the strength inside to fight for her business, sanity and her future? And who is the man terrifying the streets of East London?

Want to purchase a copy? Launch day price for the Kindle is 99c/77p!

If you do not have a Kindle you can read it on a pc using the free Kindle app download.

Amazon Kindle

Amazon.com Paperback

Amazon.co.UK Paperback & Kindle UK
The Book Depository UK (free delivery worldwide)
The Book Depository. Com
Barnes & Noble

Who am I?

Posh for my daughter's wedding

Crazy on my 50th birthday

Sooo relaxed

I was born and raised in England, in the coastal town of Dovercourt, near the port of Harwich (where the captain of the Mayflower lived). After qualifying as a nurse, I married my school friend, and we produced three children. During my rare quiet moments,I wrote poetry and articles for magazines. In 2005 we emigrated to Cyprus for a new life in the sun. It was here that I put down my cross stitch and started making writing friends on the Internet. With their support and encouragement I shared my poetry, and am proud to say I was successful in a few contests. One day I shared a short story with a friend, who wrote back telling me it was worthy of becoming a novel, and not to waste the premise upon a brief plot. The story is the one being launched today. I found my love of writing 19th Century, historical romances and my second novel, Maggie's Child, will be published at the end of 2012. Yes, Christmas is the target period.

Me pretending to look intellyjent

Aside from writing and Cross stitch, I enjoy creating greetings cards, and sell them to raise funds for a small hospice in Cyprus. One of my pleasures is to sit on the back porch with a glass of wine, and reflect upon my good life. I can often be heard chatting to new characters urging me forward.

My writing space no longer looks this tidy!

I love to help other authors show off their books, and run a blog called New Book Blogger. http://newbookblogger.blogspot.com/.

Praise for Ripper, My Love

Tragedy, Drama and Suspense - Who Could Ask for More? May 6, 2012

By J. Schutrups

Format:Kindle Edition

This is not your standard Jack the Ripper story. It's much more than that, romance, tragedy and thriller. It has the added bonus of having a twist to the tale and you don't even have to wait till the end for it.

A wonderful walk through the streets of Vicorian London giving a flavour of life then. But all is not as it seems, danger lurkes in familiar places and secrets are buried deep. The suspense and tension build and just when you thought you knew what was coming next...your wrong. Any more would spoil the story so read it and see what I mean!

A great read and one I would highly recommend.

History without being history. May 1, 2012

By Jessica Bell

Format:Paperback

4.0 out of 5 stars Chick Lit, or a roaring good adventure yarn?, 2 May 2012

Richard - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What is this?)

This review is from: Ripper, My Love (Kindle Edition)

As a celebration of today, I am going to give away 2 copies of my ebook version of MAGGIE'S CHILD, when it is released in December. Your name will go in my sun hat, and DH will pull out the winners. I will store your name until December and then send the gift. So if I haven't bored you rigid, and you are reading this ... leave a comment and you could be a lucky winner.

Cheers!

These guys might still be in the dark, but I know who Jack the Ripper is and so will you if you purchase my book!

Z: Zoo

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:50:47 PDT

I chose this word as it has special meanings for me. When we first married DH was a final year student of Pharmacy, and I had left the hospital in order to move into central London with my new husband. We had very few belongings and little money. Because of his shifts at a local pharmacy to finish his training, we did not have a honeymoon. Instead he took one day off work and we went to London Zoo for the day. The weather was perfect. We took photographs of ourselves beside the Flamingos, as they were the only thing with no fencing, and it looked tropical. Our fantasy honeymoon.

Fast forward several years. My son has always been reptile mad, and it rubbed off onto DH. Our house became packed with various reptiles. Fast forward again. He became a Zoologist. His hobby led to a degree. He went to work at Battersea Children's Zoo in London. The first time I saw him working there I knew he had made the right choice of career. He had animals around him, and his gentle nature meant they trusted him. It was an incredible sight. Slowly the love of frogs took hold, and my son began to specialise in Poison Dart Frogs. Now he is a leading specialist in this field, and is based at Vancouver Aquarium, in Canada. He left the UK to follow a dream.

Colchester Zoo in the UK awaits for my visit. We spent many happy years wandering around the new style zoo as children, and then with our own children. It has a great history (see video), and I cannot wait to take my first grandchild there for the day. One year DH arranged for me to be a Zoo keeper for the day. I spent time with the primates and Merecats. I adore monkeys.When a tiny monkey took my finger and sat holding it, I cried. It was a moving moment. The zoo aims to ensure the animals are in as much of an open environment as they can be. It is very concious of educating children about animals, and prides itself on fantastic achievements. I love the place and all they do for the animals. They deserve the visitors they receive, as they really do care.

So there you have it, the Zoo holds special memories for me.

And so ends my A-Z challenge. Zzzzzzzzz. Time to rest until May 7th, which is launch day for my novel!

Y: You and Me

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 01:15:24 PDT

You and Me

A Continuous Circle of Love
By Glynis Smy

Can be read from the bottom up and the meaning is the same

You Me

Perfect tread Smooth path

Comfortable worn shoes fingerless gloves

Sensual

invisible words silent nod understanding

Perfect tread Smooth path

Me You

************

X: Xpression ...well I think so

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 03:40:00 PDT

OK. I have nothing for this post, so I am going to wing it! I am going to write something in ten minutes. This is rough draft to say the least, and I haven't got a clue what it will be about. I will use the theme Xpression. What a cheat I am today!

He glanced around the room and gave a semi smile. Shabby, yet cared for and clean. A cat groomed itself upon a large crimson armchair. Jack grinned. It amazed him how the feline species could reach to lick areas of the body without creaking and groaning. A smell came from another room off to the left, but Jack needed to continue his task in what would be considered the main room. He wrinkled his nose at his colleague, in an expression of disgust. The female coworker also wrinkled her nose and indicated with her head towards the offensive smell.

'What do you reckon we'll find in there? The cat looks well fed. Here puss.' She clicked her tongue and crouched down to encourage the cat off of the chair. 'I'll get it in the box, and Simmonds can take it to the sanctuary. He said there were no immediate family around. And this place is so far out in the sticks, there are no close neighbours.'

'Good idea, June. I can't see anything that looks like a weapon here. You get the cat, and I'll go see what that smell is all about.' Jack moved his mouth in a downward movement, to indicate the task was not one to be enjoyed.

He watched June Fairweather clasp the cat around the neck, and drop it into the box. The pretty brunette had poked out her tongue in order to concentrate and it gave her a slight comical look. Jack laughed.

'You should see yourself, a face full of determination. Cat secure. Great, I can get over there now.'
He stepped into a small area that proved to be a kitchenette. The occupant had been killed and found on the doorstep, his body had been found by a dog walker. Jack and June were the first on the scene. Jack could hear the sirens of the the main team in the distance.

'Jeepers, June. Come here. I think I have found the weapon...and murderer...well murderers, I think!' Jack held the edge of his jacket to his nose. He turned to see June go pale, and her eyes wide in horror. She put her hand to her mouth, and shook her head in disbelief.

Across the table sat a young woman. Her pallor suggested she had sat awaiting a meal for several days. She was bound and gagged, and her head lolled to one side. She was breathing, and Jack could see a pulse beating in the vein running down her neck. In front of her was the offending smell. A pile of rotten meat, buzzing with flies. Torture in its meanest form. Beside her, and lying across the table face down, was a young man, freshly dripping in blood. An axe stuck out of his shoulder blades and a knife laid on the floor. Jack frowned.

'Came to get his girl, met his death but not before he got revenge.' Jack looked at June. She just stared ahead in shock. New to the job, and had a lifetime of getting used to hiding her expressions.
'The guy on the doorstep got what he deserved by the look of this.'
June swung him a look that showed her contempt at his words.
'No one deserves to die.'
'Come on June, give me a break, the man was cruel.' Jack walked out to greet the squad who had arrived all bells ringing. 'Hi guys. Got a good one in there.'

He lit a cigarette and leaned back against his car. Another policeman joined him.
'Wipe that smug look off your face, Jack Mason. Another one solved. I'll take over. You get some coffee.'
Jack nodded in thanks and climbed into his car. June headed towards him, her faced said it all. She was well and truly annoyed with someone.
'That idiot, Bingham reckons it was a love triangle. The guy on the step was a hundred if ever I saw it.'
She swung open the car door and climbed into the passenger seat.
'Finished your rant?' Jack asked.
June gave a giggle, and a weak smile.
'Let's get coffee, and write up the notes. '
Jack allowed himself the satisfaction of hearing his tyres squeal in the gravel. He unwrinkled his brow, now he felt much better.

W: Waste of Time -Social Networking

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 04:38:58 PDT

Time wasting on Twitter, G+ and Facebook ... Wrong!

Wasting time on social networking ... Wrong!

Without spending time in these places I would not have found valuable websites to add to my research collection.

Without others Tweeting out my Tweets, I would not have been found by some folk, and lost out on valuable support.

Without Facebook I could not have set up an event day to launch my book, and gain supporters willing to cheer me on.

Without them, I would not have met some of you!

If you still believe these things are a waste of time, and choose to ignore requests to join, think again. You are wasting a valuable marketing tool or two. I was against it all a year or so ago, now I have completely turned around, and am an avid supporter.

I set up a Facebook account purely for my writing friends. It has grown, and I have an author page for the public. I pop in every day and read, comment or add to the community. At first I spent several hours there building up relationships, then I eased off to concentrate on writing, and my friends were still there when I popped back in to say hi.

With Twitter, I drop by once or twice a week.

I held off for a long time, but eventually realised the value of social networking. I reduced my daily blogging down to once a week, and added the time to Facebook. My writing time has increased, my reading blogs time has improved, and my writing community has expanded.

My latest playground is Goodreads. I found a group for Victorian Historical Romance lovers, and of course, joined. It turned out the group had been idle for three years! Typical me, late to the party. However, because of my late arrival, it appears I have sparked the group back into life. There is an opportunity to become a moderator, but I am not sure whether to go for it or not, I will wait and see. The group is going to be a valuable place for me for several reasons. It is a good place to find recommended books, to mention my book, to find new research sites, and to meet folk with the same passion about the Victorian era.

I do not consider social networking a waste of time. If you do and are not getting the sales you would like for your work, consider joining and gently promote yourself, while promoting others. You will be pleasantly surprised. Would you consider it a waste of time writing to a penpal? No. Social networking is the modern version.

V: Virtual Friendships and Love

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 23:26:51 PDT

Over my few years of writing on-line, I have made many friends. Virtual friends. We have never met, but communicate on a regular basis. One such friend became a daily 'coffee' buddy. We checked in and linked with various things all day long. Sadly she passed away. Her family contacted me with a beautiful email expressing how much I had meant to her. I knew what she had meant to me, but never dreamed I had the same effect upon her.

We never met, never spoke, yet knew what we would enjoy or dislike. What would make us angry, sad or just feel good. Slowly thanks to her, I realised I could make other virtual friendships without becoming stalkerish. I joined groups and blogs, and gradually made new friends. After a while, I realised that these friends were real, true supportive folk. They never shied away from telling the truth, always shared in my joys and woes, and I did the same. Some 'live' folk say they are not real friends, they are false friends, folk pretending to be someone else. I DISAGREE!

The friends I have made along the way do not make me feel uncomfortable, they do not snark about me behind their hands, they do not leave me out. They rejoice in my small achievements, they cry for me, they write me lovely emails sharing their lives and enjoying mine. A few I might meet one day, others I might skype, some I will never see at all, but all of them I will love. Love in a way that cannot be expressed with a hug or cheek kiss, love in a way that is different to that love I share with family and 'live' friends. Nevertheless, it is love, virtual friendship love. One I am grateful for every day.

Thank you for being my friend.

U: Unrequited

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 04:01:34 PDT

When writing sad scenes I turn to music or memories that hurt. Another way of bringing emotions to the forefront is to write a poem about broken hearts. I am fortunate that my DH and I have been together for over 33 years and I do not have unrequited love issues.Therefore I need to search for things to aid me in that area.

Unrequited -not reciprocated/not returned.

Unseen Shreds

by Glynis Smy

It is there, in shreds

on the floor,

I see it, it is still,

it is no more.

Can you not see it?

Wait!

Don't move,

Too late...

You trod upon my heart.

Footnote: I am happily married and this is purely a poem written for a contest.

One story of unrequited love is the one that inspire a song 'Layla'.

Eric Clapton fell in love with George Harrison's wife. After the Harrison's divorced, Clapton married his Layla.

T: Thesaurus the longest surviving Dinosaur

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 02:33:00 PDT

My thesaurus is my lifeline. I use an old one from school, and the many online ones available. I tend to turn to Thesaurus.com if I cannot find anything in my trusty antique. My Thesaurus will never be extinct. I do not use large, clever, expressive words, if I did I would not be me. I would be me trying to be someone else. I would be impersonating a Tyrannosaurus and not a Compsognathus (smallest dinosaur). Anyway, what I mean is without using different words, my writing would become boring (you might think it already is, but I am a dreamer), and I rely on tools to help me through. Often words I find send me off on a procrastination period, but I still consider it research. A Thesaurus will always be by my side.

Q. What do you call a terrible, horrible, unpleasant, disgusting, irksome, obnoxious dinosaur?

A. A Thesaurus.

The Words of A Writer

by Glynis Smy

Thomas came into my life-

With his doubt.

Wishful entered the room-

With her dream intact.

Hopeful slipped inside-

And buried itself deep.

Jealousy painted a green heart-

Then slithered away.

Torment whipped through-

And whipped out again.

Idea pondered for weeks-

Then limped from my life.

Joy flashed like lightening-

Then lost its spark.

Sanity jumped the crack-

but slipped beneath the rough.

Reality tried to rescue it-

But to no avail.

Courage lifted an eyelid-

But the coma took hold.

Desperation shook it’s head-

So hard it fell off.

Solitude cried in silence-

With no end in sight.

Determination is no fool-

It still remains.

Copyrighted to GJSmy

Reminder for Book Launch Supporters (Not an A-Z post)

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 05:14:58 PDT

Not an A-Z post. Just a reminder for the kind folk who offered to interview me for 7th May book launch, I will need questions to answer. If you could email them to me soon, I would appreciate at it.

glynissmy at gmail dot com

For those who expressed interest in posting my 'press release', I have the html copy and paste post ready but it is just waiting for the links of purchase to be added. I will send it out a few days prior to launch.

I am excited and nervous, and apparently need to have more faith in work. The paperback will not appear on Amazon.co.uk as it is too complicated for me from here. However, it is going onto The Book Depository UK, and has free worldwide postage, so that is even better.

Thank you all again for your support.

S: Seduction is not always what it seems!

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 01:36:48 PDT

Seducing scenes in novels can be sensual or snoring material. Getting it right is an art. For me writing a seduction scene has not been easy. I become embarrassed for my characters, as I try to find the right words without creating erotica or heavy sexual descriptive passages. My ladies are Victorian, but women just the same. I do not have them showing an ankle, nor butt naked with pronounce nipples or other delightful descriptions. I try to add a hint of what is happening. My characters soon cotton on and I hope they send the right messages to the reader. I envy those who can write a seductive scene without turning it into porn. I rarely read erotica as it has to be written into a storyline that interests me. Only one author, Eden Baylee, has written a novel I finished.

Seduction doesn't have to be about heavy panting. In the nineteenth century, making love, means to woo, not a full blown romp under the covers. It means to gently seduce and win over in preparation for marriage.

Some authors take seduction one step further.

Tess of the D'urbervilles has a heavily laden scene of seduction (chapter 11). It leads to a planned seduction, not a romantic one. There is discussion as to whether it leads to an innocent falling for the man in time of need, or whether it is rape of a minor. I err to the side of the latter. Thomas Hardy slips in little red-herrings to keep the reader thinking, 'ah, but she', 'oh, he did, ' oh, she wasn't.' He manages to make you wonder whether seduction had taken place right to the tip end of the chapter. Cleverly done.

***

Seduction

(Taken from the poetry book: From My Heart Inside My Head)

by Glynis Smy

Your tempting ways are cruel,

I regard you as my friend-

my only source of fuel.

Give me your fruits of labour,

allow my weak body delight,

In the darkened room I’ll take you,

you’ll be mine tonight.

You have nothing to hide from me,

I know your every line.

Peeling off your lower half

You truly are divine.

My hands are all a tremble,

my cheeks are all aglow,

you are ready for the taking

the whole of you on show.

I’m drowning in your beauty

I’m gradually giving in,

But wait! What holds me back?

That woman helping me slim!

She reminds me that you are nothing-

not worth the tears to come,

I’ll put you back dear chocolate bar

‘cos I want a smaller tum!

R: Ready? Responsible Author?

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:47:56 PDT

Ready for an exciting event in your life? I most certainly am. I am visiting Vancouver for the first time, and seeing my son for the first time for three years. The last time I saw my boy was the morning after his wedding day, so it will be a joyous reunion.

Prior to that visit I am visiting my granddaughter for her first birthday. I last held her when she was three weeks old, so again, another trip I am ready for...roll on September!

So what else am I ready for? A visit from mother in three weeks.

What else?

Ripper, My Love is my debut novel and is due out May 7th 2012. Well I couldn't waste an R on anything else but showing off could I?

It is available in paperback on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble and various other places already, however I am not promoting it until the Kindle version is up and running. I want the 7th May to be the day I can say, I sold two ebooks and a paperback. *giggle*

The paperback will not be on Amazon.co.uk for quite some time, as it is proving difficult to organise. To be honest, I think the few who will buy in the UK in the paperback form will be family, and the majority will be Kindle downloaders.

For those of you on Goodreads.com, I now have an Author page. Author Jessica Bell set it up as a surprise. I was already a member reader, and suddenly I had four fans, and a couple of folk added 'to be read' against the book. Ready to become an author and carry the Responsibility of producing books?

R you kidding? You bet I am!

Q: Quaint

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 22:50:14 PDT

Quaint. What do we mean when we use the term?

Old? I used to live in the Quaint old English, medieval village of Lavenham, in Suffolk. In the picture you will see a wonky cream building on the right, (next to the black and white hotel). The cream building is a Pharmacy, and I used to live there. Our kitchen was a ski slope, I never dared drop anything at the top, it would take me all day to go and fetch it, and get back up. I had my first child in this village. It is so quaint that many film directors use several areas for background.

This is the church my son was christened in, a wonderful structure.

In the video it shows The Greyhound Pub and The Swan Hotel. I lived in the middle of both, opposite the wonky red house.

Learn more about LAVENHAM, SUFFOLK, UK.

P: Perceptive Prevention

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 05:44:59 PDT

Last Day Entry

Dear Diary

I have nothing to write today, and yet I felt I ought to record my last day on earth. I am so low and down in the pit but the time has come. I am going to end it all. I cannot function in this modern world. I don't fit in. There is nothing here for me, I have no life, no one notices me. I am nothing.

Today I went to the supermarket and a woman smiled at me. Why? Had I got jam on my face? Why I even went to the supermarket is beyond me, I won't need milk where I am going. Old habits I suppose. Have you ever noticed a supermarket? It is full of women pushing loaded shopping carts, they meet another weary worn soul, and chatter away for hours. Goodness knows- do they think it is a meeting place? What on earth do they find to talk about?

I went to the library to return my books, the woman smiled at me. Why? I knew I had no jam on my face, I made sure when I checked in the supermarket toilet. So why did this woman smile? What is there to smile about, she doesn't know me. She knows nothing about my life. A blousy woman turned up and started chatting about her hospital stay and operation. For goodness sake it is a library not a counsellor’s office!

My car has a problem so I thought I should get it fixed before I go. When the car gets sold after my death, it must be in good condition, not dangerous. The mechanic told me I was lucky, the brakes could have failed at any moment. Yes, just my luck to get them fixed! It would have been easier if they had failed, but then I might have hurt someone else if they’d failed, maybe he was right after all.

I went to the pharmacy to collect my medication. I was nervous picking this up as I knew it was the last time I would do this particular chore, and I watched the Pharmacist as he prepared my ticket out of here. The innocent party.

I have cleaned the house, I don't want those who find me to think that I am lazy or dirty. Oh I know I have a cleaner -a good one- but it made me feel as if I finished something. I cleaned out cupboards and got rid of extremely personal stuff. I don't need someone reading through my private letters.

I am ready to write my farewell letter now. I wonder who will find me?

Will it be Anna or Fernado ?

I wonder what they will feel when they find me?

Anna will go to pieces, it will traumatize her, she will need to go for counselling again. I always meant to tell her how I feel, but she will think I am coming onto her. Her loyalty is precious, she comes everyday to clean, I cannot afford to upset her. I watch the swing of her hips, the way she flicks her hair, her smile...oh her smile. Well that won't be there when she finds me.

Fernando? He will take it in his stride, nothing flusters him, he tackles every gardening job with ghusto. Where he finds the energy I will never know. He whistles while he works, I love to hear his whistle it is a happy tune. He will whistle if he finds me, dear diary, he will go sweee, what has he done?

I wonder what will happen to them, I wonder if they will get new jobs? Anna needs the money, she is a widow with children. And Fernando is paying off his mortgage, he lost his other job when the company went bust.

I will be back in a moment diary, there is someone at the door...

Hi I am back, now let's get this written.

Oh the person-neighbour- at the door wanted money for charity. Cancer is a dreadful thing, apparently her husband is suffering. I gave her what I had in my wallet, I won't need it.

Mm, just had a thought. I wonder if Fernado will be able to help them out with the garden? I know Anna will give a moment of her time while the woman visits her husband. She has a generous soul. I will leave a suggestion for them both.

OK, I have written them both each a private note expressing my wishes. Plus notes about my feelings and ideas. There is also a general one.

Dear All

I am sorry I have to leave you all, I have nothing to offer you, I am not a giver like you and I feel my time has come to go-

NEW ENTRY

Dear Diary

I thought about what I wrote yesterday. As you might guess, I didn't go through with it, I couldn't. Anna arrived earlier than usual, her smile lit up the room. It took me a moment, but then I realised the smile was for me. I had written her a poem letting her know my feelings about her, and forgot I had left it on the kitchen unit. She found it and came to thank me, it turns out she has feelings for me too!

I'd also written to Fernado about helping with the garden across the road, and he too, found the note earlier than I expected. He disturbed my diary writing so my Dear All letter was never completed. We got chatting about the guy with cancer and how awful it was for him and his family. Fernando said he wouldn't have thought of it, had I not written the note. He offered his services free of charge but the couple insisted upon paying him. So now he has a decent salary coming in, and can pay his mortgage in comfort.

Well diary I realise I am not alone, I have others who care. I thank you from the bottom of my heart as without you and pen, I would not be alive today.

I will write more tomorrow, I am off on a date now...

O: One Beer Turns The Music On

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 23:51:43 PDT

Written one evening after a pleasant summer's evening on the back porch, with music and beer. You know the sort of evening when the memories come flooding back. You are comfortable in the chair, the air is warm, the perfume from the garden plants wafts gently by, and the world is calm. An owl and bat flutter around the trees and the stars are bright. A cool beer is your companion, and you are content. Music drifts into your soul with soft, gentle movements. It surges through your veins and triggers off a memory of an evening out, a wedding, a death, a loving kiss...

One Beer Turns The Music On

Spinning arms above my head,

Santana -Samba pa ti in my soul,

Van Morrison –misty memories

R.E.M, everybody hurts did you know?

No vase to be made by ghostly callings-

I need your love- I need your love-

You take my breath away.

Sorry IL Divo beat you to it it-Hero.

Who’s gonna drive you home?

Nothing compares to you-

When you came in the air went out-

I wanna do bad things with you.

Lock the door? All day long?

Your my man?

Goodbye my lover-

this is a Wicked Game.

I wonder how many of you recognised the music or musicians in this piece.
***

N: Never Ignore Your Wife

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 01:45:58 PDT

Upon Deaf Ears by Glynis Smy

Never underestimate the woman scorned. How many times had he heard those words? His father had drummed it into him time and time again. Now here he was, bankrupt and homeless, and all because he failed to listen to his wife.

It must have been the morning she skitted into the kitchen and appeared to perform the dance of the seven veils. She draped herself over him in various positions, wafting expensive perfume across his coffee mug. Not really a morning person, he grunted a good morning, and returned to his newspaper. The distracting noises of his wife slamming around saucepans irritated Jack. 'Please keep the noise down.' More banging accompanied with a few hurumphs and ha's. Even her sighs were loud.

'I am leaving you today.'
'That's nice. Enjoy yourself.'
More saucepan banging.
'I am going to clean out the bank account.'
'Good. Have fun.'
More hurumphs and ha's
'I need you to sign your mother's card. Now the one for her flowers, I chose my favourites, Freesias.'
'OK. Done.'
'Bye.'
'Bye. See you tonight.'
'No. Won't be here. I'm going to live in the Carribean.'
'OK. Enjoy your day.'

Six weeks later it dawned on him. His Mother's birthday was December and it was only April. That is how she cleaned out their account. That is how he signed a paper for the solicitor agreeing he never listened to his wife, and she could have it all.

Clever woman, now he had to win her back. If only he could remember where she said she was going to live, and what her favourite flowers were. After all, one million was a lot to lose.

M: Memories of...

noreply@blogger.com (Glynis) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 00:00:36 PDT

Memories of...white gloves and straw hats at Easter. The Spring season of white sandals and seaside walks. My first platform shoes, white and plastic, but oh so trendy. Memories of...family gatherings and squabbles, picnics and buffets with no-crust sandwiches. Birthday cakes and jellies. Memories of...man landing on the moon, calculators and computers. Mountain bikes and motor bikes, cars with seatbelts. Memories of...dancing in a troupe, at a disco and my first wedding dance. Memories of...tulle and lace, babies, mortgages and decorating. Memories of...a new land, culture and friends. Memories of...new foods, new language and old home. Memories of...my life.

Hamilton Street, Parkeston, Essex. Memories late 1950’s. I was born in 1957, and England was recovering from WWII. Slowly life emerged with little luxuries, for the latter part of the '50's and early 60's, I lived in a street owned by British Rail. My father was the last man to unhitch a steam train from Parkeston Quay. This is the memory of the street I lived in.

Hamilton Street Saturday

Legs akimbo, pinafore wrap-shelling peas,

doorstep chatter, gossip whispers.

Snotty nosed, onion breath kids,

elastic skipping; what’s the time Mr Wolf?

Time for bread and jam; doorstep lunch-

Widow weeds a garden of sorrow,

Widower carves a bench of memories.

Tweed coat covers pregnant belly;

rollers curl hair under paisley cloth-

smoking mother; working father.

Twenty house street holds her head high.

Making memories is an important part of our daily lives. We live to remember. Memories can be painful, happy and inspiring. Without memories we are nothing.