Published Bestsellers

Harry Riley's review of Julius Falconer Series: 'The Unexpected Death of Father Wilfred'

2012-02-23T12:30:00.000Z

A review by Harry Riley*, February 2012

Scenic Worcestershire appears to have more than its fair share of evildoers and wicked murderers! In this gripping and extremely baffling case for Police Inspector Stan Wickfield, the author pits him against a highly cunning adversary.
We have stepped back in time to early 1968, to the sudden, violent death of
Fr Wilfred, parish priest of The Sacred Heart Catholic Church. It occurs, just as the church itself is undergoing a disquieting period of change.
A lot of preconceived religious practice is being challenged by a wave of new thinking and the detective uncovers several suspects in his quest for the truth of this sudden death: was it murder or suicide? With Sergeant Spooner assisting him, Stan Wickfield (considered to be the best brains on the force) methodically works his way through the lives and possible motives of each of the suspects: often taking two steps backwards for every step gained and thus giving the reader a glimpse of the workings of the Catholic Church and the unglamorous daily routine of C.I.D. work.
The team do their level best to break the case, yet are always coming up against seemingly solid and impenetrable alibis. As Wickfield states in conversation with his sergeant: So many imponderables, so many suspects-or none at all! What are we to make of it?It is only as he sets himself a time limit to succeed, or resign his post in abject failure, that he stumbles on the truth, inadvertently aided, as always by conversation with his wife Beth.
Creatively written and consistently entertaining, Julius Falconer gives us yet another fascinating, thought provoking and highly addictive read. Wonderful value!

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*Harry Riley is based in Nottingham England, and writes novels, short stories, poetry and blogs. Retired from commercial printing, he rose from apprentice to director. He is married with two grown children. Harry is the author of two books: ‘Captain Damnation and other strange tale’ and ‘Sins of the Father’.

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Julius Falconer is a mystery writer from Warwickshire, who is a former translator and a retired teacher. He now divides his time between a cottage in central France and the house in Yorkshire which he shares with his daughter and her husband. As well as some booklets and several dozen papers in professional journals, Falconer is the author of the following murder mysteries featuring the diffident and cultured Inspector Wickfield.

Books by Julius Falconer:

1 - The Spider's Banquet

2 - A Death Twice Twice Avenged

3 - The Longdon Murders

4 - The Unexpected Death of Father Wilfred

5 - Mr Carrick is Laid To Rest

6 - The Bones of Murder

7 - A Time to Prey

8 - Troubled Waters

9 - Tempt Not the Stars

10 - Jagger

11 - The Wichenford Court Murder

12 - A Figure in the Mist
13 - The Waif

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The Blake Curse - A fascinating plot with suspense and twists

2012-02-21T12:30:00.000Z

The Blake Curse

By I. C. Camilleri

Spine-tingling supernatural thriller with heartrending choices, fast pace suspense and startling twists

Ben Blake is a British Intelligence agent embarking on his first undercover assignment. He infiltrates university life in Cambridge and befriends Cathy, the daughter of billionaire Edward Carter. However his carefully laid out plan disintegrates when his path crosses the beautiful Samantha, whose cryptic past becomes firmly intertwined with his investigations. The tangled web of deceit leaves Ben battling for survival, his only lifeline being Jake Snell–the enigma, the rogue full of vices…

“The Blake Curse is all about heartrending choices, fast pace suspense and faith in the thread of human goodness” says author I. C. Camilleri.

Find out more

“Hair-raising supernatural thriller” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Fiction: Suspense / Thriller
ISBN: 978-1-907728-39-6
Publication Date: 28 March 2012
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 210 x 148 mm, 270pp

An excellent review of 'From Coconuts to Condors'

2012-02-19T12:30:00.000Z

A unforgettable trip to Brazil, Peru and Bolivia
Book Reviews by John Davies*.

February 2012

"Valerie Astill's book is a marvellous account of a challenging three week holiday in Brazil, Peru and Bolivia. Her very readable writing style makes the culture, climate and landscapes of these countries come to life. Her descriptions are incredibly detailed and picturesque making it so easy to visualise the scenes that she describes. Indeed, I almost felt as though I was in the shower with her and the little green frogs! Valerie also gives a warts and all insight into the many difficulties of travel in these South American countries. I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful travelogue - well worth reading, even if you're not going on holiday to South America."

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*John Davies is an author, song writer and poet. He is also an athlete and has been the Welsh Masters javelin champion in his age group nearly every year since 1989. He is the Treasurer of Port Talbot Harriers and President of Welsh Masters Athletics. John Davies is the author of 'Lyrics and Limericks' and 'Chester to Chepstow'.

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Valerie Astill is the author of 'From Coconuts to Condors' and has also written a second book titled - 'Temples and Tacos' about her journey through Mexico, Guatemala and Belize.

Genre: Travel: Places and peoples
ISBN: 978-1-905809-57-8
Publication Date: 12 April 2009
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 210 x 148 mm

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Harry Riley's review of Julius Falconer Series: ‘The Longdon Murders’

2012-02-17T12:30:00.001Z

A review by Harry Riley*, February 2012

This seemingly unfathomable case tests Worcestershire’s finest: Detective Inspector Stan Wickfield, and his appointed assistant: Sergeant Hewitt, to the limit. Author Julius Falconer takes a back seat and graciously allows the inspector, freedom to tell the story in his own inimitable fashion, (a bit like Conan Doyle letting Sherlock Holmes off the leash.)

I must confess, I do enjoy the policeman’s own, man of the people style. With Wickfield, what you see is what you get. He is a no-nonsense, detective who knows how to call a spade a spade. However, I think Julius ought to be aware; there are occasional hints for the reader, that Wickfield could have his own literary aspirations.

In The Longdon Murders, an old couple are found dead in their daughter’s, Worcestershire-village cottage, both slumped over a table and poisoned by a contaminated bottle of wine. Their daughter is nowhere to be seen. Then shortly after, a young man’s body is discovered in a London bed-sit. He’s been killed in a similar fashion, again poisoned by wine. These apparently unconnected events, investigated by two independent police forces, turn out to be caused by a very rare poison. This requires the best detective brains to unravel a devious plot. Who then has the patience, the methodical mind and dogged perseverance to get to the bottom of it? The call goes out to bring in Inspector Wickfield!

These murders take all the detective’s ingenuity and painstaking determination, and there are times when he thinks he’s come up with the answer, only to find he’s been led down a blind alley. Poor old Wickfield is repeatedly thwarted by interference from a senior police officer, living and working abroad; who keeps sticking his nose in, with his own pet theories. Our policeman’s lot is not a happy one.

As with other hard and tricky cases, a chance remark by Beth, Wickfield’s clever and intuitive spouse, sends him off in a fresh and positive direction, enabling him at last, to see bright daylight at the end of a long and arduous tunnel.

For a brilliant insight into the skulduggery and devious machinations of the criminal mind, you would be hard put to beat Julius Falconer and his Wickfield detective mysteries.

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Books by Julius Falconer:

1 - The Spider's Banquet

2 - A Death Twice Twice Avenged

3 - The Longdon Murders

4 - The Unexpected Death of Father Wilfred

5 - Mr Carrick is Laid To Rest

6 - The Bones of Murder

7 - A Time to Prey

8 - Troubled Waters

9 - Tempt Not the Stars

10 - Jagger

11 - The Wichenford Court Murder

12 - A Figure in the Mist

The latest addition to the series, The Waif is due to be released in Spring 2012.

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An interview with Barbara Conelli, Blog Talk Radio in New York

2012-02-16T12:30:00.000Z

Author Neal James* was interviewed by Barbara Conelli, Blog Talk Radio in New York on Sunday, 5th February 2012.

Listen to an audio file

About Blog Talk Radio

BlogTalkRadio operates out of New York and hosts live talk radio show online.

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*Neal James is the author of four books: 'A Ticket to Tewkesbury', 'Short Stories - Volume One', 'Two Little Dicky Birds' and 'Threads of Deceit'.

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How to Craft Back Cover Copy that Sells Books by the Boatload - For nonfiction books

2012-02-15T14:34:00.000Z

How do you write good back blurb?

"Back cover copy is like the packaging on a box of food or the cover of a magazine at the supermarket checkout counter. The vendor has only a few seconds to stop you in your tracks, attract your attention and compel you to make a purchase. You can also consider back cover copy to be similar to a movie trailer or preview: just two minutes that give you the plot line. Based on the trailer, you will decide whether to see the movie, or not. The same holds with your book. Your design/layout, graphics AND verbiage must entice readers and make them hungry for more."

Read full article:
How to Craft Back Cover Copy that Sells Books by the Boatload - The Savvy Book Marketer

How To Write a Back Blurb For Your Book - For novels

2012-02-15T14:13:00.001Z

How do you write good back blurb?
"This is a list of what featured most often from a number of bestselling thrillers reviewed as research from my bookshelf. The principles hold true for any genre although the details change for each."

Read full article:
How To Write a Back Blurb For Your Book - The Savvy Book Marketer

Read and Soar - Watch the book trailer

2012-02-14T12:30:00.000Z

A book trailer for Read and Soar has been released.
Read and Soar is a book about the many benefits and joys of reading.

Where will your reading adventure take you?

Between the covers of a book exists a sort of paradise.

Books have a certain kind of enchantment about them; they are able to catapult you to a different world in the twinkling of an eye.

By reading you can rub minds with the best thinkers of all time & share in the wisdom of the greatest minds.

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Yomi Akinpelu is the author of 'Read & Soar' and two other books: 'A Matter of Life & Death', 'The Wholesome Truth about Healing'

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Wartime drama ‘Whittington Manor’ to be made into TV drama

2012-02-11T12:00:00.000Z

With the success of Downton Abbey still causing shock-waves both sides of the pond, the path has been set for a new generation of period dramas, and the next one to watch out for is Whittington Manor.
Written and adapted to screenplay by Claire Voet, Whittington Manor tells the beautiful story of love and heartbreak during the Second World War. The heartwarming yet dramatic story, tells of class division, corruption, deceit and betrayal, as it follows the life of 16 year old Sarah Whittington.
The only daughter of Lord and Lady Whittington, and residing at the famous Whittington Manor, this story is set in one of Britain’s most historic, yet somewhat forgotten cities, Portsmouth.
Sarah finds love at the top of Portsmouth landmark, Portsdown Hill, with an unlikely suitor, Joe Lambert. Divided by social class, and knowing their relationship could never be accepted, the pair meet in secret until war breaks out and Joe is sent to fight. Find out more...

Watch Book Trailer

A review of Julius Falconer Series: ‘A Death Twice Avenged’

2012-02-10T12:00:00.000Z

A review by Harry Riley, January 2012

This is a fascinating Inspector Wickfield murder mystery. By this time the
police detective has much more experience under his belt. He is called upon to use his undoubted skills and thus provide the answer to another Worcestershire riddle.
His co-partner in this tale is Sergeant Spooner and together they set about the enormous task of bringing the perpetrator/s to justice.
This case would be tricky enough, if it wasn’t for the fact that, as their work progresses, it becomes abundantly clear, a recent murder has definite links to a very cold crime, of some twenty years earlier.
It seems shocking to me, that amongst the glories of Worcestershire apples and pears, there could be some very odd fruit, lurking under the stairs!
However this tale soon gets under your own skin, so to speak, and the book becomes another un-put-down-able, labour of love.
Personally I think ‘Wickfield’s wife: Beth, deserves more of a mention too, because, to give credit where it’s due, she is obviously a very astute lady, who knows a thing or two about puzzle solving and is someone her husband seems to rely upon quite heavily, especially when he’s stuck for answers.
If a reader is allowed to put his four-pen’orth in, I think the author should ignore Beth at his peril-a woman scorned and all that!
But to get back to the plot, a young girl has the tantalising memory of hearing her father’s killer speaking, moments before he commits the dastardly crime. Many years later, the girl is still haunted by this voice and then, quite by chance she hears it again. Thus sparking off a chain of dark events and dirty deeds, that leads to the full-time involvement of our indomitable Worcestershire sleuth.
Written in a very stylish, British way, I’m sure both Wickfield and his creator will be vying for honours and by now have bucket-loads of dedicated fans.

Claire Voet was interviewed on Express FM Radio

2012-02-09T12:00:00.000Z

Claire Voet, author of Whittington Manor, was interviewed on Express FM Radio. Whittington Manor is a Second World War love story.

Listen to an audio file

About Express FM

Express FM is based in the heart of Portsmouth, broadcasting from Portsmouth and South-East Hampshire on Frequency 93.7 FM.

...

A review of Julius Falconer Series: ‘The Spider’s Banquet’

2012-02-08T12:00:00.000Z

A review by Harry Riley, January 2012

For me, one of the main attractions of the: Who done it; is to pit my wits against the criminal investigators and attempt to anticipate who the perpetrator is, before they do.
Author Julius Falconer allows Police Inspector Stan Wickfield to tell the story in his own way, warts and all, even to the point of interacting directly with the reader, right through the story. I find this very appealing, especially as the inspector is not some soulless, over-promoted wonder-boy, but a conscientious thief-taker who expresses his own self-doubts and is not frightened or ashamed to seek advice from his sergeant.
As we proceed through the book, I get the impression we are all in it together, almost as if we were trying to interpret the clues to a complicated crossword puzzle. We understand the policeman’s frustrations, as he encounters each dead end and has to rethink his strategy.
Some crime, novelists work on a totally different level, with convoluted sentences and padded chapters, which bear no relation to the plot, causing me to cast down their books in disgust. Not so with this author. His writing is crisp and sharp and the story moves on at a fast pace. At no time does he telegraph the ending.
We are treated to an insight into the closed, meditative life of an abbey, and you wonder, why do monks want to shut themselves off from the world? What drives them to do it? I’ve visited one of the genuine monasteries the author refers to and watched the brothers toiling in the fields, so this story possessed an additional interest for me.
Inspector Morse might be dead and gone but Inspector Stan Wickfield lives on. It was a pleasure to read and I look forward to getting my teeth into the next one.

Julius Falconer is a mystery writer from Warwickshire, who is a former translator and a retired teacher. He now divides his time between a cottage in central France and the house in Yorkshire which he shares with his daughter and her husband. As well as some booklets and several dozen papers in professional journals, Falconer is the author of the following murder mysteries featuring the diffident and cultured Inspector Wickfield.

Listen to a short story by Neal James

2012-02-07T12:00:00.000Z

Neal James* was on Erewash Sound with Tris Walker and Laura Smith on Saturday 21 January 2012 to record the first of what may become a series of his short stories.

Listen to an audio file of the transmitted short story titled - ‘Marks on the Wall’.

Neal James interview
Neal James would be returning to the Erewash Sound studios soon for an interview with Tris Walker – If you have something you want to ask Neal James about his work then please use the comment box on the 'Erewash and beyond' website or email tris.walker@erewashsound.com.

About Erewash Sound

Erewash Sound was launched in late 2004. Broadcasting on 96.8FM, Erewash Sound serves the Erewash Valley area of Derbyshire.

*Neal James is the author of four books: 'A Ticket to Tewkesbury', 'Short Stories - Volume One', 'Two Little Dicky Birds' and 'Threads of Deceit'.

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Unveiled, a new book marketing & distribution initiative

2012-02-07T08:41:00.000Z

'Spring Leaf Books' unveils a new website, SpringLeafBooks.com and an email marketing brand – ‘Book Springs’, specially designed for book lovers all over the world.

The new website is aimed at informing readers about tailored offers, reviews and interviews about their favourite books and authors.

Book Springs is a newsletter of Spring Leaf Books used for targeted book marketing and promotions. All book marketing campaigns are based on clear goals, good research, appropriate use of social media and trends within the industry of book subject, to achieve maximum exposure.

Springs Leaf Books is proud to be affiliated with PublishedBestsellers.com.

A spokesperson from Spring Leaf Books says:

“We recognise that there are many book promotion initiatives out there but we hope that our offer will provide authors with a unique selling point for their book(s). Spring Leaf Books and Books Springs are two book marketing and promotion initiatives that will effectively support authors’ book promotion drive before and after a book is released.”

Spring Leaf Books is a business unit of Pneuma Springs Publishing, an independent publisher, providing established and budding authors with publishing expertise since 2003.

OTOLI is currently on the Top Ten YA awareness books

2012-02-06T12:00:00.000Z

View the Entry - Top Ten YA awareness books

OTOLI is a story of bullying, teenage issues and the supernatural. The central character, a victim of bullying, Alice Turner, finds solace in a strange café called OTOLI and finds friendship with the enigmatic waitress, Jenny. It however turned out that Alice’s new friendship is not quite what it seems.

Author’s Bio

Bryony Allen writes Adult and Young Adult fiction. She is the author of 'Mystery, Deceit and a School Inspector' and 'OTOLI', her latest book. Bryony is a teacher and currently lives in the beautiful wilds of the Suffolk countryside with her husband, four children, and pets, cats and dogs.

Read the recent YA Book Reads blog with author, Bryony Allen.

Bryony Allen is the author of two books: 'Mystery Deceit and a School Inspector' and 'OTOLI'

A new film ‘Broken Promises’ based on a short story by Avril Saunders

2012-02-05T12:00:00.000Z

Paul Burton Films are currently in pre-production with a new short drama film which is being made in association with Avril Dalziel Saunders*.

Before she was married, Jenny Curtis nursed her widowed mother for several years after she was left paralysed and speechless from a stroke. In Broken Promises, Chloe Richards recalls the twists and turns of fate that Jenny faced in the year following the death of her mother; and how her attempts to rebuild her life were thwarted when she met her then future husband, Harry Curtis.

With a screenplay by Paul Burton - who is also set to produce and direct the film - Broken Promises is based on a short story by author, Avril Dalziel Saunders. The film is set to be made at Elstree Studios in north London and on location nearby in February 2012.

The completed film will then be broadcast later this year as part of a short film strand on the following TV channels: Information TV (Sky 231), Information TV + 1 (Sky 189) and Showcase TV 2 (Sky 203).

DVD’s of ‘Broken Promises’ can be ordered direct from Paul Burton Films

Profits from the sales of the DVD’s from ‘Broken Promises’ will be donated to ‘Breast Cancer Care’ and ‘McMillan Nurses’

*Avril Saunders is the author of 'Chasin’ That Carrot' and soon to be released book 'Mammograms Save Lives', due out in February 2012.

Ray’s amazing journey - in print, set for book launch

2012-02-04T17:31:00.000Z

A NEW book charting a 70-year old runner’s mental and physical journey through life, as he sets himself almost impossible challenges, is out this month.

Me and My Shadow is the story of Ray Matthews, a local man described by publishers Pneuma Springs as “truly exceptional”.

Source: Ray’s amazing journey - in print - News - Goole Courier

From Pneuma Springs with love! - Unveiling our Valentine's selection

2012-02-03T20:52:00.002Z

Spice up your love life with some romantic novels

Forbidden

Set in the life and times of Regency England, a stirring tale of love, dark secrets, manipulation and the determined human spirit.

A summer evening’s chance encounter throws together two people of opposite social class who, despite a natural mutual attraction, should never have met. More...

To Know the Road

...An inspiring tale of love, hate and the indomitable human spirit.

A story of forbidden passions set in the war years and played against a background of sectarianism and religious conservatism in Ireland. More...

The Guitar Man
A heart-tugging bitter-sweet love story, in which love, devotion and determination brings good out of the most tragic life circumstances.

Set in Ventnor, a quaint seaside town on the Isle of Wight off the south coast of England, this is a heart-tugging bitter-sweet story, in which love, devotion and determination brings good out of the most tragic life circumstances. A sweeping story of true love, devotion and pain. More...

Sweet Dreams

A romantic action packed mystery thriller fiction set in Glasgow inner city and the Swiss Alps.

The deputy head teacher of a Glasgow inner city school has been murdered! Kate Farnham, a colleague, discovers his body – he had been shot dead. Suspect or target? That is the question the Chief Inspector has to answer as he goes to the Swiss Alps in his search for answers. Romance and mystery seamlessly intertwined! More...

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A sensitive and insightful new book on helping children cope with bereavement

2012-01-25T12:30:00.000Z

A Grief Unobserved

By Maggie Kindred

There is a wonderful book by C S Lewis in which he describes the process of coming to terms with his bereavement - the 'grief observed' which most adults will experience at some time in their lives… this book is about the grief not observed, that of very young children. It is for parents, carers, and professionals who work with them.

Very often the remaining parent, close relatives and well-meaning friends, are understandably so involved with their own grief that they try to sweep the child's problem under the carpet. They can regard apparent lack of reaction in the child with relief, rather than as a danger signal.

“This book is essentially practical - it is meant to make 'therapy' an everyday concept, so avoids jargon and theoretical language where possible.” says Author Maggie Kindred.

Find out more

“Insightful and sensitive” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Family & Relationships: Death, Grief, Bereavement
ISBN: 978-1-907728-37-2
Publication Date: 23 February 2012
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 203 x 127 mm, 60pp

A stirring true story of triumph and recovery from breast cancer

2012-01-24T12:30:00.000Z

Mammograms Save Lives

By Avril Dalziel Saunders

Avril was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2011. After a mammogram she was called back to receive the devastating news that she had breast cancer. She felt well, had no symptoms, had never smoked, ate a healthy diet and exercised regularly, so how could this be? There was no explanation, it can happen to anyone!

Author Avril Dalziel Saunders says ‘…I want to inspire and encourage these women as well as women all over the world to have regular checks. …my profit from the book sales will go to Breast Cancer Care and Macmillan Nurses. I am shouting this out loud…‘MAMMOGRAMS SAVE LIVES!’…

Find out more

“Inspiring and triumphant” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Coping with illness and specific conditions
ISBN: 978-1-907728-36-5
Publication Date: 23 February 2012
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 203 x 127 mm 70pp

Exhilarating autobiography of 70 year old desert runner

2012-01-23T12:30:00.000Z

Me and My Shadow

By Ray Matthews

Exhilarating autobiography of 70 year old desert runner and his extraordinary 100 miles run round Rotherham.

What kind of man runs 100 miles at the age of 70? What makes anyone want to run 100 miles? Who decides what the right age is to achieve your dreams?

Throughout a lifetime, everyone has the opportunity to meet truly exceptional people. Ray Matthews is one of them. From being a cocky ginger haired, Yorkshire lad who just wanted to “have a go at boxing,” to his recent 100km Sahara Desert race, Ray’s life is truly inspiring and anyone seeking to take on the impossible should read this book.

Ray writes with a passion that reflects his fervour for life. Feel the emotion as a young Ray takes steps that help him discover the most important mentors; who lead him to make the hardest choices; which made the biggest differences in his life.

Find out more

“Extraordinary and exhilarating” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Autobiography: sport

ISBN: 978-1-907728-35-8
Publication Date: 23 February 2012
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 210 x 148 mm 118pp

An engaging and wonderfully entertaining mystery novel

2012-01-22T13:30:00.000Z

Another classic British detective fiction by Julius Falconer

Fancy a twenty-first-century murder linked to an eighteenth-century parish register? - with a stroll through the byways of ancient Middle Eastern languages, a piece of eighteenth-century silver, a spot of genealogy and trips to France, Italy and Austria thrown in? Then this is the book for you!

The discovery of the body of a petty criminal one winter’s night in 2011, in a quiet Yorkshire hamlet, sets in train a series of events which stretches Inspector Walter Moat’s capabilities to the utmost. His wily opponent, as he eventually discovers, is an elusive master-criminal called Lomax, who weaves a devious and ruthless path to achieve his goals. Moat and his sergeant find themselves attempting to nail a crook intent on thwarting the resolve of a friendless waif…

Find out more

“A triumph of literary wit” …publishedbestsellers.com

Genre: Fiction: Crime Mystery

ISBN: 978-1-907728-34-1

Publication Date: 16 February 2012

Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback

Book Size: 210 x 148 mm 154pp

Book Savvy Spotlight on John Davies

2012-01-21T14:25:00.000Z

Bringing you exclusive interviews with authors featured in the Book Savvy Newsletter.
Our Guest is John Davies*
Enjoy the interview.

Q1. Can you tell us about yourself and your book 'Lyrics and Limericks'.
I was born in Cwmafan, South Wales in 1948, attended Glanafan Grammar School, worked for 30 years as a chemist for BP Chemicals and retired in 2002. Married to Adrianne in 1971 and son, Ian, born in 1979. Our granddaughter, Freya, was born in 2010 and is the apple of my eye. I started writing as a hobby in retirement and 'Lyrics and Limericks' is my third book. I play guitar, have written some songs and also some poetry. The thought occurred to me, are song lyrics poetry? I sought the opinion of several songwriters and poets and their thoughts are included in the book. Having written many limericks, the book title required no thought and just tripped off my tongue.

Q2. When you write, what emotion do you seek to evoke in your readers?
That depends entirely on what I'm writing. I have written poems which I hope have evoked sadness and sympathy in the reader. I wanted to entertain the crowd with the speech at my son's wedding. I told him that the real secret to a successful marriage is just two words, "Yes, dear". Lyrics and Limericks is a light hearted look at the worlds of poetry and song writing. I hope that I've made it an entertaining read.

Q3. Have you always wanted to be a writer? Why did you start writing?
Deep down inside I probably did, but it was never a conscious thought in my early years. There was always something else more important like bands, girls and rugby. Then along came marriage, a mortgage and a family. I'd always enjoyed writing essays at school, retirement provided me with the opportunity to pick up my pen again.

Q4. What are your favourite aspects of writing? And the most challenging?
Strange as it may seem, I actually enjoy the physical act of writing with a pen on paper. Thoughts are fleeting, committing them to paper is permanent (I hope). I write everything by hand first. I then have to type it into the computer, which is a good form of revision as well. Because I have so many other interests, my mind is never full of ideas. Coming up with a good idea is sometimes a real challenge.

Q5. What inspired you to write "Lyrics and Limericks"?
I joined my first band in 1965. We couldn't decide on a name so we called ourselves "The undecided". Since then I've had a great interest in music and have written many songs. I have also written many poems including a large number of limericks which had never been published. The lyrics of Bob Dylan are regarded by many as pure poetry with music. Can poetry be called lyrics without music? This was the underlying thought which inspired me to write "Lyrics and Limericks". The book, however, is not a type of textbook; I have tended to the humorous throughout.

Q6. How do you write your books? Do you plan it or do you just get an idea and run with it?
It has varied with each of my three books. The first was a Welsh language biography of singer/songwriter Geraint Griffiths. I recorded a series of interviews with Geraint and wrote them up after as soon as possible. "Chester to Chepstow" was my second book. This was the account of my 600 mile cycle trip around the coastline of Wales. I kept a journal during this trip and wrote it all up over a few months after my return. I had an idea and a plan for "Lyrics and Limericks" and more or less followed it except for a few ideas which occurred to me on the way.

Q7. Are there any favourite authors or books that have had a strong influence on you?
There are many authors that I admire and many books that I have really enjoyed. Tolkien, Conan Doyle, Forester, Orwell, Irving just to name a few. I don't think any of them have influenced my writing because I've just tried to be myself. My favourite book is "The Lord of the Rings". I've read that 17 times!

Q8. What are your interests when you are not writing?
Every morning is devoted to athletics. I train every day. Winter is devoted to cross country and summer to track and field. I have been Welsh Masters javelin champion in my age group nearly every year since 1989. I am treasurer of Port Talbot Harriers and president of Welsh Masters Athletics. I own six guitars (I can only play one at a time though!) and play in three bands. I am currently writing some instrumental songs for my band, Marconi Beach Sound, which is my main musical project. All these things have to be put on one side though, when I'm babysitting my beautiful granddaughter Freya.

Q9. What steps have you taken to market your books?
All my books are on Myspace and Facebook. I also have a PublishedBestsellers.com blog site. In addition, I sent details with a photo to the local press and also a circular by email and snailmail to booksellers, libraries and reading groups.

Q10. If you had to pick just one book marketing tool that you've used to promote your book, which would you say has been the most effective?
Circulars by email, I've probably had more response from this source.

Q11. Do you do more promoting online or offline and which do you prefer?
Online is easier and cheaper, so that's what I prefer to do.

Q12. What is your target audience for this book?
Musicians, songwriters, poets and anyone who just enjoys an entertaining read.

Q13. What kind of reactions and reviews have you received about your book?
Relatives and friends have said how much they have enjoyed it. Peter Finch, former Chief Executive of the Welsh Academi, sent me this email: "This is a lovely book. I'm halfway through it and am finding it pretty entertaining. I hope sales go well."

Q14. Are you concerned about the effect of e-books on traditional books?
They do seem to have become popular. Personally, I would never favour e-books over real books. I get the greatest pleasure in handling all books from lovely old leather bound editions down to the lowly paperback. E-books have their place in modern society, but in my opinion, they will never replace the printed word.

Q15. You have written three books, do you have others in the pipeline?
Yes, I do have another book in the pipeline. As I said before, my granddaughter Freya, was born in 2010 and that gave me the idea to write a book of children's poetry. Hopefully I will finish it by the time she can read. I haven't got a title yet, but some of the poems are called - "The Frog and the Hog", "Sammy the Slug" and "The Nine Stone Cowboy".

Q16. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
First of all, you need to read as much as possible. The art of good writing becomes ingrained when you read good writing. Don't try to copy the style of a good writer, be yourself and develop a style of your own. I think it helps if you can write on a subject that you enjoy reading about. Rejection is inevitable in the world of publishing. Never give up, keep trying...

Thank you for your time. We wish you every success in your writing career.

*John Davies is a song writer and poet. He is also an athlete and has been the Welsh Masters javelin champion in his age group nearly every year since 1989. He is the Treasurer of Port Talbot Harriers and President of Welsh Masters Athletics.

The following are the two of John's books, published by Pneuma Springs Publishing: 'Lyrics and Limericks' and 'Chester to Chepstow'

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* Book Savvy is an e-newsletter of Pneuma Springs Publishing, featuring news and information about all published books and new releases with highlights about the authors behind the books. Look out also for helpful resources e.g. blogs, book reviews and of course, discounts, special offers etc.

Page Central (BookShelf) - Author of the Month

2012-01-18T16:32:00.001Z

Julius Falconer has been featured as the Author of the Month on the book review website - Page Central (BookShelf)
January 2012

The BookShelf Review

"Julius Falconer has managed to write a character, that is so real that the reader can see him in their minds, Falconer has made his characters so realistic it really feels like you are part of the book and involved in solving the mysteries. All of the inspector Wickfield books are intriguing murder mysteries with a fallible detective that doesn’t solve the crime in an afternoon, each one bringing a different mystery to solve. Think Miss Marple or Moorse and your on the right track, although these books are not as light as the TV programs, they are not like modern day gore. Each book gives the reader a job to do and clues along the way. These are excellent novels that are not in sequence and can be read in any order. Each book set in another area means that the reader doesn’t get bored with so many mysteries in one place and with an realistic-ness that ensures Inspector does not cover the same mysteries."

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Falconer is a mystery writer from Warwickshire, who is a former translator and a retired teacher. He now divides his time between a cottage in central France and the house in Yorkshire which he shares with his daughter and her husband. As well as some booklets and several dozen papers in professional journals, Falconer is the author of the following murder mysteries featuring the diffident and cultured Inspector Wickfield.

Books by Julius Falconer:

1 - The Spider's Banquet

2 - A Death Twice Twice Avenged

3 - The Longdon Murders

4 - The Unexpected Death of Father Wilfred

5 - Mr Carrick is Laid To Rest

6 - The Bones of Murder

7 - A Time to Prey

8 - Troubled Waters

9 - Tempt Not the Stars

10 - Jagger

11 - The Wichenford Court Murder

12 - A Figure in the Mist

The latest addition to the series, The Waif is due to be released in Spring 2012.

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'From Coconuts to Condors' - Candid reviews

2012-01-16T12:32:00.000Z

A unforgettable trip to Brazil, Peru and Bolivia
Book Reviews

"David and Valerie Astill clearly have a gift for making friends... and were privileged to attend a number of local ceremonies and events such as the candomble in Salvador de Bahia, an important religious ceremony in honour of the gods, which very few tourists have experienced…Valerie Astill’s descriptions of adventures, landscapes, costumes and local customs are detailed and picturesque. Her book also includes many photographs, sadly only in black and white."

Joan Stephens, Leicester Mercury

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"A nice travelogue, honest and lightly written. It’s warts and all, “The entrance and archway dating back to the 16th century had obviously been used more recently as a public convenience. It smelt dreadful…” If you want an insight into travel through Brazil, Peru and Bolivia, this will give you what you’re after."

Paul Bondsfield, Explore Worldwide Ltd

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"As a fellow traveller to the Andes, I have much enjoyed 'From Coconuts to Condors'. I don't actually mind the photos being in black and white, as I can visualise the locations from Valerie's excellent descriptive writing. I have also enjoyed the fact that the book is well written, in the correct tense, and with proper punctuation! Having only been to Peru, I now want to visit both Brazil and Bolivia! Thank you Valerie."

Gill Twissel, author of ‘Rest Upon The Wind'

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"We enjoyed this book because it conveys the reality of travel in these countries and the everyday issues facing the traveller. Too many travel books tend to present a 'tourist board' image of a location which is very different from the practical experience of the average visitor. Problems, hiccups and the unexpected help one to understand and appreciate a country much more. This is why the lack of colour photos doesn't matter. This book is a real journal of an exciting and challenging venture and not just a 'puff' for the South American tourism industry. Well worth reading."

Brian and Margaret Ludlow

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Valerie Astill is the author of 'From Coconuts to Condors' and has also written a second book titled - 'Temples and Tacos' about her journey through Mexico, Guatemala and Belize.

Genre: Travel: Places and peoples
ISBN: 978-1-905809-57-8
Publication Date: 12 April 2009
Edition/Format: 1st/Paperback
Book Size: 210 x 148 mm

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