C.L. Peache's Blog, page 39

When life has balance…

Hello, who am I? ((well, Peachy I could answer that, but you might have to edit it a little bit!)) Does anyone else feel like the months are just whizzing by? I’m determined to have more time to read for the rest of the year, I feel like I cannot continue to call myself a writer if I’m not reading enough! Doesn’t Stephen King say you need to read a lot to be a good writer?!

So, I hope all is going well in your writing/reading worlds. During the last two weeks I’ve finally achieved the goal of having a routine, well sort of, more below. Two days in the writing studio/writing/organising workshops and three days in paid work – very important when self-employed/freelance, it makes all the difference having that regular money pop into the bank each month for bills and essentials. ((It goes straight back out in prosecco, coffee, and holidays!)) An as author, Brackets, it is my duty to drink coffee, booze and explore my surroundings for research. ((Yeah, yeah, I’ve heard it all before – as in binge watching TV series… blah blah blah – writers! Have an answer for everything!))

As I said, it’s only been two weeks but so far, so good, with the routine. I’m not sure it’s fully sunk in yet that I’m finally living the life I wanted for so long. You know when you’re so stressed and busy it takes a while for the brain to catch up when you’ve settled down? Don’t get me wrong, I’m still getting up some days at 5am to meet my writing deadlines and coming home from work, making tea and then working on the studio programme, but it’s all at my own pace and in my control. I have a couple of my stories which I’m desperate to get back to, including finishing book two of my dragon series and the psychological thriller which I’ve mentioned in previous blogs. They are becoming a serious writing itch which I need to scratch!

I finished my last novella in July and submitted it to my publisher on the deadline date! Eek! i intended to do some writing on holiday but got distracted by dolphins, sea kayaking and finally seeing my family after 7 long months. I’m about halfway through another novella, which needs to be submitted by end of August and then it’s another novel by the end of September. I really need to do some planning to achieve this deadline. I also have my edits coming back from the other stories, so it’s all go, as usual, but I’m managing a walk in the morning and quite a bit of faffing in-between.

I’ve seen a sneak preview of the new app for my digital publisher and it looks fab. Few bits and bobs to iron out as you do with any new system. But it was very exciting seeing my book on the virtual shelf! I cannot wait until it’s live and I can share it. (hopefully on Friday 13th!) I have to do a video answering a few questions which I’m not looking forward to. I know I can rattle on but being in front of a screen is a bit different. I apologise in advance when I’m plastered all over social media waffling like a… well I don’t know what – someone who waffles!

I really need to make some time to update my website, I’ve been neglecting it for far too long. ((Well, since you’ve barely read anything and done nothing on your dragon story I wouldn’t bother!)) Alright, Brackets, a girl only has so many hours in the day.

Right, that’s me done. I hope all is going well with everyone, feel free to comment and share your news. I love hearing what everyone else is doing. ((She means she’s really nosey and needs some ideas for her next story!))

Have a good month

Clair xx

((and Brackets))

P.S. My New Zealand travel book turned one on 27th July so I decided to make it my pic for this months blog. If you want to buy a copy here is the link… 187 Kilometres, turn left

Happiness, tears, good days and bad days… the life of an author…

Before I start waffling, the picture attached to my blog is the cover reveal for A Christmas Wish, which has found a new home with @sagafiction I love the cover and I’m very excited about my novella being published in August!

Well, last month, was a month, and in true ‘life can never be predicted’ most of the exciting events happened on the same day. To be quite honest, some good news was long overdue, as the week before I was sobbing into my cushion, feeling overwhelmed by how busy life had become. The late nights and early mornings were merging into one ((I’m not going to lie, I was worried about you Peachy.)) Ah, thanks Brackets. Me too, I consider myself to be a very strong person but sometimes enough is enough and when you have good friends going through horrific times, it just kinda gets too much ((Your brain was like a Windows update gone very wrong!)) Is there any other kind with windows updates?! ((Good point, well made, Peachy)) 

Anyway, I shared my good news on social; which was getting a part-time job back at my old workplace, which will allow me time to run the writing studio and write my novels, leaving weekends free for socialising and workshops at the studio. I also received a business grant from Newark and Sherwood Council for the Secret Garden Studios – www.secretgardennewark.co.uk . I cannot say how welcome this grant was. Not only because it’s a validation of my hard work but it meant the stress, late nights, and tears were worth it. It also means the studio can grow and adapt to the changing world we are living in right now. It was a day, that is for sure! To be completely honest, I think it’s taken this long to sink it. After years of working to get to this point, I’ve needed a bit of time to process the news, which is a luxury I’ve not had for a while.  

In writing news, I sent off my first manuscript a few days before my deadline. I wrote approx. 62,000 words in 40 days, including two read throughs and edits. ((Alright show off! Give it a rest!)) It’s not about showing off, Brackets. It’s about showing what can be achieved if you want something bad enough. Getting up, sometimes at 4am, to get my wordcount in before I ‘started the day’ was tough. I felt like was working at a million miles an hour, but I bloody love writing and if you love something, you might moan about it ((Oh you moan alright, surprised your friends and families ears ain’t bleeding!)) but you get on and get the job done. I’m now working on my next writing deadline, which is a novella due in about three weeks! ((I’m looking forward to this one Peachy – a mystery in Jersey!))  

In work news, I made the difficult decision to say no to some work. It was just too much on top of everything else and we all have our limits. I started to feel like I wasn’t doing anything to my usual high standard and everything was overwhelming. Even Yorkshire lasses must accept they cannot do everything and I was pushed way beyond my limit. ((I think writing a novel, running a new business, applying and interviewing for jobs, working on Newark Book Festival and you know, with normal life stuff, anyone would have to protect themselves and say no. Wow, I’m being so nice. To my fans – normal life will resume next month)) I’ve finally started to sleep properly since i made the decision, so it shows how much the stress was draining my energy.  

More exciting News! My books are in my local library, which is very exciting. ((Stop repeating words, Peachy! EDIT EDIT!!))  A big thank you to the Library Manager, Alice for being so supportive. My travel book 187 Kilometres, turn left and book one in my fantasy series: A Festival of Time: Book One: Escape are now available to the masses. I still cannot believe MY books are in a Library! 

This month is going to be another busy one but I have a lovely break planned mid-July, with some of my family. I’m really looking forward to a week off and to completely switch off. The next two weeks include 4 days working at Newark Book Festival, starting a new job, workshops at the studios and writing a novella. It’s going to be tough and I will need a holiday at the end! 

Have a great month. Hopefully, next month I will be reporting a more relaxed and less stressful life and should hopefully have more news to share on my novels.  ((I’m impressed you haven’t mentioned your birthday celebrations. What was it? 5 different celebrations. One thing is for sure, Peachy. Judith is coming back – (that’s travel queen Judith Chalmers for those not in the know).)) 

Happy writing everyone.

Clair x 

After lockdown, adventures of an author and trying to make a living!

Well, I’m not 100% sure where to start… ((Always best to start at the beginning, waffle a bit in the middle and finish at the end. Unless you’re writing a time-travel novel or a historical novel, but let’s not be picky!)) Yeah, thanks, Brackets, helpful!

So, the last month has been beyond busy. If you follow me on social media, I think I’ve either been quiet or moaning about the long hours on the PC. I feel like I’m missing out on the beautiful weather which has now appeared in the UK. But last weekend, I finally managed to catch-up with friends, being generally a very sociable person, I didn’t realise how much I needed it. Also, I had a gazillion ideas on the train! It’s still strange having to wear a mask everywhere but I’m sure people must have been able to see the crinkle of my eyes from smiling ((That’s just wear and tear and middle age, Peachy or maybe a lack of sleep))

It’s been crazy busy ((You’ve already said this! Excuse her folks… menopausal brain!)) and to be honest, I’m not quite sure how I haven’t lost the plot. Do you find when life is so busy, lack of sleep and stress follow and it just perpetuates everything being so much harder? But I’ve pushed on, because I’m a Yorkshire Lass and failure is not an option, and I’ve done many things I never thought I would do; including having an article published in my local paper (www.facebook.com/257915376443/posts/10158145605076444/) and being on BBC Radio Nottingham (www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p09h7kw3  23mins in) talking about my new creative writing studio which I’ve spoken about in another blog. The first writing workshop took place on Friday 28th May and I was so pleased with how it went, the sun shone and we had the large stable door swung open. It feels so good to help local writers develop their skills and I will admit it’s a bit of a bonus the fact I get to join in and improve my own writing. ((Still need to improve the editing, Peachy.))

The second stressful item on the list has been helping to organise Newark Book Festival. Wow, I thought last year was hard! I knew nothing! It was mainly down to funding, timings, and other things at play but we had to turn the programme around in record time. In the end I think we turned the brochure around in one day ready to go to the printer! The studios will be hosting a couple of workshops this year, which is extremely exciting.

To the writing…
As you know, last month I told you about my digital publishing deal. I’m pleased to announce @sagafiction (follow them on Twitter and Instagram) are publishing two of my stories: A Night lost to the Past and A Christmas Wish. They are currently being edited, ready to be relaunched when their new app comes online. It was extremely exciting to receive the edits back for A Christmas Wish and receive a proof of the cover. Exciting news… they are also going to publish 4 more of my stories but I have to write them yet! Deadline’s loom! ((Don’t pretend you don’t LOVE a deadline!)) I do, I feel like I’m writing for a purpose now. I’m target driven, what can I say!
I’ve spoken many times about the journey to publication and I feel I have found the perfect publisher for my stories. I love working with Pranika and Aakriti who are the founders of Saga, my books have found their perfect home. I’m still self-publishing some works as Saga are digital publishers at the moment with their future plans involving print copies.

Due to the deadlines above I’ve not been able to finish the final edit of book two in my fantasy series, Festival of Time. I was aiming to publish the book before the planned Spring 2022 but time and money are against me at the moment. I will publish book two! I promise ((I believe you Peachy. You’re not another well known fantasy writer who leaves fans waiting… decades.)) I am excited to get back to the story, although sometimes it’s useful to have a break from a story as it helps you to see any holes in the plot. ((You ought to take a break from yourself then!)) I also have to finish designing the fantasy game which compliments the series but this project is definitely on hold for the moment.

I feel like my blog posts have changed this year, but everything I talk about is part my writing journey. The Secret Garden Studios and freelance work for Newark Book Festival are all work I’m doing to pay for/help my writing career. I don’t know many creative people who don’t have numerous income streams to make ends meat, and even with all that, the financial situation is a constant stress which often finds me on the sofa in the middle of the night. ((Okay, okay Peachy. If I had hands, I would play the violin! I will buy a copy of your latest book: Festival of Time: Escape, if it stops you guilt tripping me!)) Thanks – here’s the link to my books… www.amazon.co.uk/~/e/B07JGGK2T6 . Believe me, every SINGLE penny makes a difference right now.

One last one… ((Please, I know a lot’s been happening, but seriously, if you’ve read this far then you’re either related to Peachy – poor them or you’re a fan – in that case, thank you, because without your support I will get deleted… Me… Brackets… confined to a cyber black hole!!)) I’ve been asked about my psychological thrillers. These have never been published, just a few of my beta readers have seen these and I constantly get nagged about them, which is very flattering. The thrillers featuring, Hope and Tom ((OMG! OMG! TOM!)) will come one day. I promise!

Right, that’s it! Sorry for the long post. I really should blog weekly but I just don’t have the time right now.  I have deadlines people. Deadlines!

I wish you all a fabulous month of writing.

Clair xx

Never give up on your dreams to be a writer…

Today, you will find me on a floating writing retreat, A.K.A, a narrowboat. We are chugging along at approximately 2-4mph. It’s a wonderful pace of life. I don’t need to tell you all how tough life has been since Covid hit and this is the just the tonic I needed to reset. I hope you can share a little bit of my happiness through my pictures. Check them out on my Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook pages.

I shared the exciting news a couple of week ago that I’ve sold a couple of my stories to a digital publisher and received my first author advance! It was an amazing feeling to have a publisher pay for my work. I know people buy my self-published books and every purchase is appreciated, but this was definitely a different feeling to experience.

How did I celebrate signing this contract on Wednesday 14th April? Well, I went to help at a local café and chopped vegetables for their community meal programme. As I was chopping courgettes, broccoli, and cabbage I was smiling on the inside and outside, but the mask did hide the grin a little bit. The following week, after I’d had a positive meeting in the Secret Garden Studios, I received my author advance. I think I’m going to print out the statement and pin it on the wall! Life is all go at the minute. Trying to set up a new business, signing up with a publisher and looking for some part-time work, it’s certainly keeping me busy. I’m sure if you want to be any type of creative you must have at least ten different jobs!

I’ve always wanted to write a book. Whenever I’ve read a brilliant book, I’ve wanted to write one, whenever I read a rubbish book, I’ve wanted to write one, and one day, I did just that. I opened my laptop and I had an idea, one month later, I’d written a book. That quick – it was almost as if the story had been sitting there waiting for me to decide to take the plunge. Many things happened after this which I’ve talked about in other blogs so I won’t go on. ((Makes a change, Peachy!))

I promise to share the full details in a later blog, but I’m not allowed to share all the details now ((Oh, are you working for the secret service? FBI? CIA? MI5?)) No, Brackets – although that would be cool, although I doubt I would be allowed to talk about it at all then. No, the venture is a new one so I need to wait for the marketing department to give me the go ahead. ((Ooohh, get you. You finally have people! You can tell people to talk to your people now!)) I can tell you’re impressed, Brackets.

I want to finish by saying whatever stage you’re at in your writing career, just don’t give up. Yes, the rejections are hard. Yes, you will want to give up or decide your writing is rubbish and no-one will want to read it. Yes, you will have doubts, but just keep going if only because you love to write. Your stories need to be told and only you can tell your story.

Right, off to break into the biscuit tin and knock up an espresso coffee ready to do some more writing as we cruise along the canal.

Clair ((and me! I’ve barely had a mention in this blog! Think I will be ready for a blog takeover soon! Brackets))

3-year anniversary of my writing blog/website.

I hope you are well and for those of you based in the UK, I don’t know about you, but I feel hope is starting to creep into the days ahead. The bright blue skies and sunshine over the past few days have really helped.

This month’s blog is celebrating my 3-year WordPress anniversary! ((Happy anniversary to us Peachy. I cannot believe I’ve put up with you for three years and I haven’t been given my own blog yet!)) I don’t think the world is quite ready for you, Brackets.

In April 2018 I started my writing journey and decided to create this blog/website to document my journey. It’s been an adventure, that is for sure. If you’re thinking of creating a website/blog to help with your author career or to keep you accountable as I did, then go for it. Yes, it does take a bit of work to set it up. Depending on what you want to do with it, it can cost money but I can highly recommend WordPress, their helpline is amazing – ((Do you remember when you deleted your website?)) Yes! It was terrifying, thank the dragons for the tech gurus!

Using WordPress has given me a lot of scope to develop my webpages over time. I started with an ‘About me’ page and my blog and I’ve added five pages to my website over the years as I’ve developed my scope/skills as a writer. It’s still terrifying to make a website page live, but if you do make a mistake, you can always amend it. So, try not to stress about it. If people are not forgiving – do you really want them as followers?

For me, one of the benefits of having a blog is that it keeps me accountable. Initially, I wrote weekly blogs but eventually it became difficult to create interesting and relevant content. ((You think what you create now is interesting?? Seriously, you’ve been in lockdown WAY too long, Peachy!)) This way, I wasn’t just writing a blog for the sake of it. At the beginning of the year I write a list of things I want to share, but these can change depending on what’s happening at the time.

It can often feel a little daunting when you create a website, but just keep it simple and enjoy it! One of the reasons I brought Brackets into my posts is because I wanted my blogs to be informative but also enjoyable to read. I’ve only been writing ‘officially’ for 3 years so I still have a lot to learn, I worry about spelling and grammatical errors, and that my blogs will be boring ((That’s never going to happen with me about, Peachy. I can always be relied on to ramp up the insults or sarcasm when I feel like your readers are falling asleep!))

I’ve connected with many people during the time I’ve had my website and through social media; Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. I’m not one who goes for numbers, I go for quality and people who are on their own journeys and like to interact. I like to connect with people, and developing those relationships takes time and you need to balance that with life, work, writing and all the other little things which can be a drain on your time. So really do think about why you’re starting a website, do you really have the time for it?  Make sure you wouldn’t be better putting your time and effort into another social media platform. I think if you want to self-publish or go down the traditional route then having some sort of social media presence is helpful.

I hope this has been useful for anyone thinking of starting a website/blog. I’ve added a few stats below ((Ohhh, I love stats!)) Me too, Brackets. If you have any questions about starting a website/blog please comment below. Happy to help.

Followers185Countries20Posts79Visitors2,134Views5,848Words62,300 (novel length!)

I’m hoping to be able to share another new venture I’m working on next month. I’ve been delighted with the response for the Secret Garden Studio plans I shared with you last month. Exciting times ahead!

See you next month,

Clair x ((and Brackets))

P.S. I’m off to have cake – it is my anniversary!

Creative Studios in Newark-on-Trent

I’m extremely excited to finally share the news about one of my new ventures. A little back story if I may…

So, back in the dreaded year which shall not be named, I embarked on a new venture. You don’t need to tell me about trying to set up a new business in a pandemic – I really don’t recommend it. With more twists and turns than the rollercoaster I was made to go on in Salou, we got there in the end.

The Secret Garden Studios will offer a range of art and writing workshops and much, much more! I think I’ve organised approximately 6.2 million events which have never taken place due to the constantly changing goal posts for running workshops with real people. We did have the option of running them online but we decided the ‘magic’ of our business is the setting itself. Every time I walk into the space and glance out of the window at the secret garden and watch the birds going about their day, it brings a warm glow of inspiration, which we hope all our new friends will enjoy once we open in May – keep everything crossed!

The Stable Studios are based at the back of Gallery 6 on 6 Stodman Street in Newark-On-Trent, directly across from The Prince Rupert pub – this just so happens to be one of my favourite pubs in Newark, so all ‘official’ business meetings might be conducted in here for maximum creative exploration!

You will enter a magical creative world. What delightful adventures will you have? What new crafts will you learn? We hope you will make some wonderful friends when you visit us at the Stable Studio’s and Secret Garden. Glance to the right as you enter and the light from the garden we welcome you into our creative hub.

All you need to know is on our website, so I will leave you to click on the link. There will be lots more pictures to share as the secret garden grows alongside our events – we have lots of plans! Thank you so much for all the support we have already had. Hopefully soon we can organise a wonderful, real life, launch party to show off the Secret Garden Newark Studios.

www.secretgardennewark.co.uk

I look forward to seeing you.
Clair x

Topping up my author batteries, finding inspiration and the mental health benefits of showing up!

Hi, I’ve been thinking a lot about CVs – mainly because I’ve had to update mine and is there anyone, anywhere, who likes updating a cv? Also, the job market is a bit dire to say the least. ((Well, who wants a 46-year-old, menopausal woman who writes about dragons, fantasy worlds, serial killers and creates board games – GROW Up Peachy)) Brackets, don’t be so rude I’m not 46 yet – the other stuff is true! Anyway, stop spamming my post, this is a serious one. ((Well, excuse my coding for being alive!!))

So, what am I going on about and am I losing the plot? Possible, but that’s another chapter. As I was ‘updating’ my CV with all the various jobs I’ve had, it got me thinking about my author CV and how some authors seem almost embarrassed to say they are a writer, possibly thinking people don’t think it’s a proper job. Maybe people see the famous authors as having a ‘proper job’ but I’m not sure that translates to self-publishing… maybe just my perception? My thoughts are that society dictates what is seen as a proper job. What do you think? Maybe it’s about seeing your own self-worth.

I love watching canal boat vlogs on YouTube and one of them was talking about the questions he gets asked and one was, ‘why don’t you get a proper job?’ Now, this guy spends a full day editing, cruising to create content and everything else that goes into creating a professional vlog, which doesn’t look like it’s been filmed back in the days of Black and White TVs ((SEE! Old – black and white TVs!)) Oh, I used to love a good western or musical on my little B&W TV. Anyway, I told you it’s a serious blog. Go fiddle with your code… back to the vlogs, this guy spends probably more hours than many people who have a full time ‘proper job’ so, of course, the work and time he gives to his creative endeavours are valid.

I don’t know about anyone else but from my observations ‘being a creative’ can often be seen as just a hobby. Creatives value other creatives work because we know how bloody hard it all is. Anyway, I’m waffling a bit and possibly a bit ranty! I decided to create myself an ‘author cv’ and add all the things I do which adds to my development as a writer… here are a few things I took part in this month;

4th Feb – D. Wallace Peach –Fosseway Writing Group Online Event

Diana very kindly agreed to chat to my writing group about her books and journey. Diana is a fantasy writer from the other side of the world! It was so interesting listening to Diana and I found myself nodding along and agreeing with all her reasons for deciding to self-publish. The fact she was impatient with how long traditional publishing can often take, wanting the control to write what she wanted, when she wanted, and many other reasons I identified with. It felt like the validation I needed to continue with my self-publishing and slightly alternative publishing route ((Oh, is that your ‘secret’ project, Peachy?)) Shhh Brackets, all in good time. I’ve downloaded one of Diana’s books to read, but because it’s fantasy like my current book, I cannot read the genre I’m writing in at the time. Mainly because I panic that I will unconsciously steal a plot thread! That would be embarrassing. I’m really looking forward to reading Diana’s book very soon!

Click here to look at Diana’s website and sign up to her blog (well worth a follow!)

13th February – How to write romance day – Iaminprint – Online Event

Well, what a day. I wasn’t feeling the best in general ((we know from your endless moaning on social media!)) and although I have been writing and going through the motions, editing my new book, I had lost my writing funk just a little bit. Sometimes it’s good to take a step back and find your inspiration and top up your author battery packs, and this day certainly did this for me. There was so much I loved about this day – all the guests were fabulous. A particular favourite of mine was Milly Johnson; being a fellow Yorkshire Lass, listening to her talk was like coming home and all straightforward, wonderful advice. I also wish I could afford to sign up to a course with Sophie Nicholls, such an inspiration. She talked about how she self-published before she received a publishing deal and I imagine her courses are excellent. All in all, the day was brilliant and I could write a whole blog just about this day.

I think the events are still available on catch up or check out IAMINPRINTs author events, many of them are free. www.iaminprint.co.uk/how-to-write-romance-day/

15th – 22nd February – #ShowUpGetBooked with Maddy Shine.

Thank you to the lovely Alice Flear (www.alicesimaginarium.wordpress.com/2021/02/01/squirrels-my-1st-time-in-print/) who recommended that I sign up to this challenge. As I’ve said earlier, I’d lost my funk and the last thing I wanted was to join a motivational discussion at 9.30am – turns out, it was exactly what I needed.
Maddy went live on Facebook each morning to talk about SEO ((OOOHHH I know this one! Search Engine Optimization – not just 00000111110000 people!)) and how to get your blog noticed in Google searches and loads of other tips for blogging and business visibility. It was great to chat with like-minded people finding their way in the world of blogging and finding out how to get their business noticed. Highly recommend you check out Maddy’s page https://maddyshine.co.uk/work-with-me/blogging-for-gold/ She was so inspirational and obviously knows her stuff!

Right, that’s it from me. For the eagle eyed amongst you, yes this is a week early. Hopefully exciting news to come next week!  My author CV and battery pack have certainly been topped up! Do you have an author CV? I would love to hear if you have any recommendations for developing your skills as a writer?

Take care,

Clair x ((And me, Brackets – the funny one))

P.S My fantasy book is available on Amazon, it has dragons in it, and it’s only 99p. Festival of Time did i mention the eBook is only 99p…

If you want to receive regular blog updates, please sign up below…

Email Address:

Sign up. Say hello. It's free!

I’ve published my book! The costs and road to publication…

Firstly, I’ve finally published my fantasy book. Hurrah! It’s been a long time coming, but I’m excited to have finally pressed that button. I wrote most of this book during NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) in 2019 and since then it’s been through the usual editing processes. The pandemic has influenced the publication date as I had to delay my travel book, which was due to be published in early 2020 and I’d originally planned to have this book out for Christmas 2020! But at times like these, we have to just go with the flow.

So, I had this whole marketing plan for my fantasy book and then, well, life happened! I don’t know about you but some days it’s difficult enough to put pen to paper, never mind all the other skills you need to know/learn to self-publish. Many days I’ve stared at the PC, faffed about in Canva trying to make fancy images I can share on social media. Even though it often feels pointless in terms of sales for a self-published author and that’s not to sound negative, it’s just a fact. Book sales rarely even pay for the editing, cover, typesetting, not to mention the hours spent writing a novel of 60K + words. Why do we do it?

In the end I decided to press the button and get my fantasy book out there and see what happens. Rely on the writing community, friends, and family to help me spread the word. If you’re reading this; if you can help by sharing, I will forever be grateful. Better still, if you can tag a friend who might be interested it would be even better and IF you buy a copy then I bow down on the floor in gratitude ((Be careful there Peachy, you might not be able to get back up!)) I know, Brackets, I might need one of my dragons to rescue me!

My thanks go to many people, including Christine Goldschmidt for the wonderful cover. The Book Typesetters, Rachael, and Nat for the fantastic typesetting – I love the dragon paragraph dividers! Amazing. To Maria, Linda, Ric, Tracey, Alice, Karla, and my mum for giving me feedback, editing and proof reading – it’s been a long road but we got there! Thanks also go to everyone who have given me moral support… Thank you, thank you, thank you.

A little bit about the final price of the book/eBook. I really didn’t know what to do about the cost of the book. Everyone is so used to paying bargain prices nowadays, unless you’re well known, you’re lucky if people want to pay more than 99p for the book you’ve toiled on for years and spent a fortune getting ready to publish. But, we all like a bargain! With sales on KDP (The Amazon account used by authors) you have a minimum amount you can list the book for and this covers the cost of the book being printed; as well as their costs, and it soon adds up, if you, the author, want to make even a tiny profit… here are the costs broken down.

Paperback:
Cost of book – £8.99
(the minimum I can list for is £5 but I make zero profit on this)
Cost of printing: £3.00
Amazon Costs: £3.60
Author profit: £2.39

eBook:
Cost of eBook – £1.99
Amazon costs: £0.59
Delivery: £0.04
Author profit: £1.36

(I probably need to sell approx. 170 books before I start to make a profit)

So, when you take these figures into account, an author doesn’t make much money for all the work involved and as I said earlier, they rarely make a profit. Well, some do, but maybe they are more established and have a fan base built up over years of hard work. So, why do we do it? Because we bloody love writing and are compelled to write these stories – for me, I have no choice as my characters are very demanding!

Right, that’s it from me. I look forward to constantly refreshing my stats and imagine I will have sleepless nights waiting for the reviews to come in… remind me again why I write?

Thanks for reading, I’m off to work on book two…
Clair x

This could be dangerous….

Firstly, Happy New Year to everyone. Hope you’ve had a nice Christmas break whatever you’ve been doing. As you may know from previous blogs it’s been a tough year but I made a conscious decision to not stress and just enjoy the time. I somehow managed it and feel quite refreshed for a new year, even if it’s still as challenging.

So, to the blog… I’m about to commit to the world that I have plans for 2021! ((OMG Peachy, are you completely mad?? You know how 2020 has been – are you sure??)) Yes, Brackets, apparently I thrive on goals and challenges and this year will be no different, even if those goals or decisions have to be stretched a bit ((I doubt they will be as stretched as much as your positive pants… you’re literally wearing a mankini you have pulled up your positive pants so much this year!)) I know, Brackets. I know!

I always like to start a new year plan by revisiting my goals for the previous year, so here goes:

Attend more Book Festivals and more writing group sessions… ((hahahahahahaha)) I know! This was kind of curtained due to the pandemic. I did help organise a successful Newark Book Festival, which involved learning on the fly but we got there in the end and it was a huge success. So I did get to attend some book events, even if they were virtual. We also moved our writing group online (for now) and the writing workshops went really well.

Finish the Gothic Novel with my writing group – achieved and published… The Brinwade Chronicles. Some amazing stories – such a talented group.

Submit my psychological thriller and fantasy story – This kind of stalled after the pandemic kicked in and I decided to focus on self-publishing for a while. I might submit again one day but the sheer length of time it takes to submit, wait and then if you get the golden ticket, well, it just takes way too long before a book is published for my timescale. I think I might be too impatient for mainstream…

Publish my New Zealand travel book – Done! It might have been a little late, due to the world turning upside down and affecting timescales but my book about my travels is available to buy and hopefully once the world opens up a bit, I will be able to promote it as I intended. 187 Kilometres, turn left

Try and get a story published in People’s Friend – I have submitted a story but not heard anything yet. It is tough to get a foot in the door but I will keep trying. They are a bit behind with reading new subs, due to…well, you know.

Expand my Night Lost to the Past story based in Newark – This is on hold for a while. It’s still simmering in my mind but I want to concentrate on my fantasy books. Although once the world opens up and I can get into the Civil War Museum, I might start cracking on with the research I need to do for this project.

So, if you’re still reading… I hope you were able to achieve everything you wanted or were able to shimmy them about in your diary for another time.

To the dangerous issue of 2021 plans…

Not really a writing goal but number one is to get a temporary job or freelance role. I have never known a tougher year for employment. Let’s face it, without money, there are no cappuccinos ((Please, Peachy don’t say things like that! No coffee – you wouldn’t last a day!))Publish my fantasy novel – so so close. I’m hoping the publishing date for book one will be mid- January. I’m say hoping, because, you know! I wrote 50k of book two during NaNo so I’m working through editing and adding to this so I can publish this Spring/Summer. I am keeping my goals very flexible this year! I would like to publish the trilogy in 2021 but it depends on many things so it’s a goal on paper!Create a role-playing game based on my fantasy series. I’ve already created one quest. I’ve played RPG (role playing games) all my life and it all started with D&D. My plan, once it’s been tested and tweaked, is to offer it up on Kickstarter to get the funds together to market it. A lot of work, but really enjoying creating it. Especially as it is based on my fantasy world so I have the story there I just need to adapt to RPG. I’m also in talks for an artist to create my images and also publishing the rule book and need to find somewhere to create the templates and specific dice I will need for the characters – all very exciting! Hopefully when the world opens up I will be able to run the writing workshops I’ve spoken about in my new studio. I’m very excited to see where this goes, to be around creative people and support other writers’ journeys will be wonderful.Attend my writing group workshops which are online for now and enter all the competitions! We’ve had quite a few new members this year and I cannot wait until we can all meet up in real life.

Right, that’s it for my plans. Not as many as normal but must keep it realistic. I wish you luck with your plans for 2021! Let’s hope it’s a better year for all of us and we can live somewhat a normal life again, whatever that might be. If you have any goals you wish to share then I would love to hear them. I haven’t decided on my reading goal for 2021 so better get a move on – suggestions welcome!

Have a great month. Fingers crossed my fantasy book will be winging it’s way into the cyberworld very soon!

Clair x

NaNoWriMo Winner and fantasy book news

[image error]

Well, what can I say, just when you think 2020 cannot get any tougher, it does. ((never mind, Peachy. Pull up your big girl pants and crack on, just be careful you don’t get a wedgie!)) I might have already gone past the wedgie stage, Brackets, I think I’m nearly at the mankini stage!

Anyway, always one to try and see the positives. I AM A NANO WINNER – this means that during the month of November I wrote 50,000 words which is something to celebrate. I must admit it was harder than usual, as I’ve mentioned in previous blogs, life is a bit tough at the moment, but I was determined to write as much as I could about book two in my fantasy series.

A bit of advice if you’re planning on taking part in NaNo next year and you’re writing a series, I suggest doing a lot more planning than I did, as it helps to keep that flow so you’re not having to pull out an idea out before you start your wordcount for that day. It was so difficult this year as I’ve had brain fog through being stressed. Even though I managed the 50K, it didn’t flow like my books normally do and this means lots more editing than usual. But, getting the words down on paper is a massive step forward and it gives me something to work with and I’ve thought of some great ideas for book three. I also had fun engaging with people when I asked for dragon names! Cannot believe so many people got involved, on this note there will be a dragon family tree coming soon – extremely exciting. ((enough with the dragon obsession, Peachy. Man alive who loves dragons that much!)) erm, millions of people actually, Brackets.

Last update before I leave and make myself a cappuccino… ((That Patreon money is being well spent on coffee!!))  The picture for the blog is a little sneak peek of my new fantasy novel, here is the title and a little bit of blurb…

Series: Festival of Time
Book One: Escape

The Festival of Time is upon them. The portals will open, allowing them to move between worlds.

Magic is in the air… can Thanan, Star and Pol escape the cruelty of the Masters and leave Luminosa.

Will Villian go forth like the Princes of old and bring the Dragons back to Arcus in time to save his world?

Pathanclaw is desperate to find the ‘one’ and the female dragons they lost so long ago… Humans should never have been taught the secret of magic…

It’s currently in the final stages of proof reading and I need to tweak the cover/blurb, but I hope to publish my new book before Christmas. This book has been in my mind for a long time and it’s always exciting to hold a new book in your hand ((and sniff it! Peachy always sniffs new books!))

Right that’s it, I’m off to read my book and get it ready to hit Amazon… number one bestseller here I come! I really hope that if 2020 has been as difficult for you, as it has for me, that the end of the year is kinder and 2021 brings lots of joy and many more wonderful books to write and read.

Stay safe everyone.

Happy Christmas from myself and Brackets xx