S.C. Skillman's Blog, page 2
January 4, 2025
Berlin December 2024 – Insights From the East Side Gallery of the Berlin Wall
Just before Christmas 2024, we visited Berlin and explored that fascinating city.
There are so many diverse aspects to Berlin in December: the fun & excitement of the Christmas markets, crazy light displays, exquisite craftwork in festive shops, the amazing Humboldt Forum art museum, the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the opportunity to reflect upon the worst of human history in the Holocaust Memorial and at the monument to brave Aryan women defending their Jewish husbands and sons in Rosenstrasse; from the sheer folly & farce of life in east Germany from the 1960s to 1989, shown at the DDR Museum; to the openness, transparency, and inspiration of the present day Reichstag where the Bundestag meet.
But the most impactful experience for me was wandering down past the East Side Gallery of the remaining Berlin Wall, seeing all the hopes and visions of the artists whose work is represented there, and then going behind it to see the Death Strip, and to imagine just how it must have felt to live in the German Democratic Republic and gaze across that dangerous area, past the armed guards, and long for life in a free society.
Here are a few pictures to give a sense of that experience.
East Side Gallery, Berlin Wall, 2024
Words on the Berlin Wall 2024 
Sign up here to join me on my writing journey. You’ll receive my monthly newletter direct to your mailbox. I share gems and snippets from my research discoveries, news and insights from the writing and publishing world, and you’ll be the first to know when I have a new book coming out.
December 11, 2024
December 4, 2024
Book Blog Tour: YA Dystopian Novel ‘Redemption Ground’ by E.M. Carter
Today I’m pleased to be reviewing the final novel in The Newland Trilogy by E.M. Carter, a thrilling YA Dystopian Trilogy published by Resolute Books.
BLURBAn awakening nation. A deadly appointment. A race against time.
As rumblings increase throughout Newland, Carys, Amy and Jacob find themselves prisoners of the regime in different ways. Midwinter Festival is fast approaching, and with it a deadline nobody wants to think about. From the darkness of a prison cell to forgotten underground tunnels to unexpected visits to places they thought they’d left behind forever, the fugitives must fight to survive where they are and find a way out of impossible situations that threaten to break them.
Meanwhile, scattered Resistance and Outsider groups are coming together to seek justice after decades of oppression. In a frenzied countdown, the Resistance and the young people are caught up in an increasingly dangerous series of events. Can they really challenge the all-powerful New Day Party to bring justice and healing to a broken nation? And can they keep their own integrity in the process?
In the fast-paced final part of the Newland Trilogy, dive back into a world where equality and justice have been laid aside for power and greed, and journey with tenacious characters who are not afraid to stand up and fight — even in their darkest days..
YA Dystopian Thriller author EM CarterMY REVIEWA very tense and thrilling conclusion to the Newland Trilogy in which the three main protagonists, Amy, Jacob and Carys are challenged by multiple dangers as they resist the tyrannical New Day Party members and the horrific regime they have created. E.M. Carter certainly hits her characters hard with the worst things that can happen to them, on every level.
I enjoyed reading about the way these three draw on their own inner resources to combat their adversaries, as they fight the multiple threats of a cunning and ruthless dictatorship in the nightmare state of Newland. There are so many twists and turns of the plot in this story that the reader has to maintain full concentration and sharpness to keep up with them, especially in the reappearance of various characters referred to in the previous two books. The emotional stakes are high throughout this narrative, along with the constant physical threats, and E.M. Carter keeps the pace at a high level.
Of the three heroes, Jacob is my favourite, and I was behind him every step of the way, admiring his strategies and skill, and identifying with his feelings and his ways of overcoming the adversity thrown at him. A particularly intriguing and moving part of the narrative was in the portrayal of characters who ultimately reveal themselves to be very different to how they first appear; this ultimately gave rise to one of the most profound and emotionally stirring scenes in the novel: as well as the most perilous.
In the outcome of this trilogy, I feel the author handles the theme of resistance against tyranny with great wisdom and awareness of human psychology and history.
I highly recommend the Newland Trilogy to every fan of YA dystopian fiction.
The Newland Trilogy – YA Dystopian Thrillers by E.M.Carter
Links to buy THE NEWLAND TRILOGY:
Links to find out more about E.M. Carter:
Why not sign up to join me on my writing journey? You’ll receive a monthly newsletter from me direct to your inbox in which I share gems and snippets from my research discoveries, news and insights from the writing and publishing worlds, plus you’ll be the first to know when I have a new book coming out.
December 3, 2024
December 2, 2024
Book Review Blog Tour: ‘A Right Cozy Christmas Crime’: an anthology of cozy crime stories compiled by Wendy H Jones
I’m delighted today to be a stop on the blog tour for this new anthology of stories ‘A Right Cozy Christmas Crime‘ edited by Wendy H Jones and published by Scott & Lawson in time for Christmas 2024.
I’ve been reading much more of the cozy crime genre lately, as a fan of Fiona Feitch Smith’s two cozy crime series set in the 1920s and 1930s, the Poppy Denby series and the Miss Clara Vale series. Along with several other books in the genre I’ve also just finished Dorothy L Sayers’ first novel introducing Lord Peter Wimsey.
So, what of ‘A Right Cozy Christmas Crime’?
ABOUT SCOTT & LAWSON PUBLISHING
Scott and Lawson Publishing, situated in the heart of Dundee, Scotland, is a beacon for literary enthusiasts. The company publishes captivating cosy mystery anthologies, transporting readers to quaint locales filled with intrigue and charm. In addition they specialise in non-fiction books tailored for writers seeking to hone their craft, the company offers invaluable insights and guidance fiction aficionados are also catered to with thrilling narratives that keep them on the edge of their seats. With a commitment to quality and a passion for storytelling, Scott and Lawson Publishing is a cornerstone of the Scottish literary landscape.
A Right Cozy Christmas Crime Features 13 Short Stories written by Wendy H. Jones, who compiled the anthology, and the following authors:
BLURB
Step into a world where twinkling lights and holiday cheer are accompanied by Christmas puddings and a dash of intrigue. A Right Cozy Christmas Crime brings together thirteen festive mysteries where annual traditions are intertwined with shadowy secrets. From a historic Scottish Castle hiding a chilling truth, to the bustling streets of Lagos filled with more than just Christmas shoppers, each tale sparkles with holiday warmth while unravelling a deliciously puzzling mystery. It’s time to put your feet up, sip hot cocoa and join our detectives as they ensure justice is served. Perfect for lovers of cozy mysteries with a holiday twist.
MY REVIEW
This is a delightful collection of short stories presented in a volume which makes an ideal Christmas present for a book lover; I can imagine that keen crime fiction reader receiving it in the morning and having it read by the evening regardless of the whirl of activity around them.
The stories are written by highly accomplished authors, masters of skulduggery in familiar settings: Sheena MacLeod imagines the subterfuge that might surround a signed first edition of Dickens’ Christmas Carol spirited away from the local second-hand bookshop; Pauline Tait’s tale rollocks along at a good pace with an ingenious solution; Sue Cook relates her story with a sparkling, perky tone; Wendy H Jones entertains us with her clever, snappy, and witty account of village rivalries. Sophie Smythe’s sleek narrative is a smart black comedy of manners; Marti M. McClair lays a puzzle trail for us while Alex Greyson explores the demise of an unpopular actress, Julia Fancelli Clifford sets her tale in Italy and spices it with romance; Stella Oni takes us to Lagos; Dianne Ascroft transports us to Canada; Linda Mathers’s dark tale centres upon a nut allergy, Gillian Duff’s story is neat and elegant and I loved Melicity Pope’s campy Victorian melodrama.
Finally what could be better than to find a recipe at the end of the book for the Snowball Christmas Cheesecake! (with no poisonous ingredients).
All in all, this is a delicious Christmas offering for all cozy crime lovers, and also those yet to be converted to the genre.
The authors and the publisher wants to see and share your posts.
Please include the hashtag #ARIGHTCOZYCHRISTMASCRIMEwhen you are sharing your posts.
ABOUT ME
Hello! My name’s Sheila and I write under the pen name of SC Skillman. I live in Warwick with my husband and son, and my daughter currently lives and works in Australia.
I was born and brought up in Orpington, Kent, and have loved writing most of my life. I studied English Literature at Lancaster University, and my first permanent job was as a production secretary with the BBC. Later I lived for nearly five years in Australia before returning to live and work in the UK.
My output includes mystery fiction, and historical and paranormal nonfiction. My two novels so far published are Mystical Circles and A Passionate Spirit. Each of my nonfiction books is illustrated with 100 original full colour photos, mostly taken by myself, and others by my son and daughter (both talented photographers!)
In March 2023 I was the Nonfiction Adjudicator at the Scottish Association of Writers Annual Conference in Glasgow. I’m a member of the Society of Authors and the Association of Christian Writers.
My nonfiction books on Warwickshire are published by Amberley and include Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire and A-Z of Warwick. My next book for Amberley will be Paranormal Gloucestershire. I have also completed a contemporary gothic fantasy novel called Director’s Cut.
In addition to my published books, I blog weekly on scskillman.com about books and films I love, people and places of inspiration, life, spirituality, history and travel.
I’m also a public speaker and have spoken to many groups and organisations about Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire, the quirky tales of Warwick, the art of writing nonfiction, and the power of story. Do get in touch with me if you’d like a speaker for your group!
Why not sign up to join me on my writing journey? You’ll receive a monthly newsletter from me direct to your inbox, in which I share gems and snippets from my research discoveries, news and insights from the worlds of writing and publishing, plus you’ll be the first to know when I have a new book coming out.
September 25, 2024
Book Review: ‘The Art of Life’ by SL Russell
Today I’m pleased to bring you my review of the latest novel from contemporary fiction author SL Russell, The Art of Life. Published by Resolute Books in August 2024 this is a compelling and deeply moving story I can recommend to all readers, and not only artists and art lovers.
‘The Art of Life’ by SL Russell on KindleI’ve only just finished reading The Art of Life and I felt I had to keep reading to the last page, and could not leave it alone, I was so caught up by the creative passion, the relationships and the personal dilemmas of Fen, the main protagonist.
‘The Art of LIfe’ a novel by SL Russell, paperback cover imagePUBLISHER’S BLURBFen Bailey has a comfortable life – but it’s stifling her. She has her husband and family and everything she needs, except a sense of who she is. When she discovers an unconventional art school deep within the Yorkshire Dales, she hopes it may be the key to freeing the artist she used to be and longs to revive. But as she seeks to live and create, disastrous news from home threatens all she has achieved. Torn between her old life and the new, can she fulfil her obligations and still be true to herself? Or will the price of freedom be too high?
MY REVIEWThe Art of Life
By SL Russell
As an artist myself I found this story of restless artist Fen totally absorbing. Frustrated with her unsympathetic, rather conventional, workaholic husband John, who shows no interest whatsoever in the art about which she feels so passionate, Fen escapes on what first seems to be a short exploratory retreat, to an enticing arts centre deep in rural Yorkshire.
The arts centre turns out to be in a very down-at-heel fragile state, in desperate need of major refurbishment, and the owner is facing financial ruin; yet Fen sees the huge potential of this place and loves the area, where she spent childhood holidays. She believes in the centre and in Martha who struggles valiantly on with a place offering so much to creative people. Fen longs to paint a giant triptych based on The Book of Revelations; she begins work in the cold, cavernous space of the barn at the arts centre and meets Liam, a fellow artist who lives a rootless life.
Fen lives in a small cottage belonging to her old friends Mary and Peter and becomes more and more deeply involved in the life here, and the life of the local sheep farm and its brilliant working sheepdog Sadie. At home in the city her increasingly resentful and dissatisfied husband keeps striving for advancement at work and finding excuses not to visit her. Meanwhile her two grown up children are making lives of their own, and though supportive of their mother’s creative passion, they are anxious about her increasing separateness from their father.
Crises in Yorkshire, violence and jealousy at the arts centre, and family tragedy at home break into what started for Fen as a creative idyll and turn her life upside down, as well as the lives of those around her, and the life of the arts centre. I found this a deeply engaging story by a highly accomplished author, several of whose novels I’ve previously read and enjoyed.
Highly recommended.
Why not sign up to join me on my writing and publishing journey. You’ll receive a monthly newsletter straight to your inbox in which I share gems and snippets from my research discoveries, news and insights from the writing and publishing worlds, and also you’ll be the first to know when I have a new book coming out.
If you’d like to support me in my writing, please do buy me a coffee and I’d be very grateful.
About MeHello! My name’s Sheila and I write under the pen name of SC Skillman. I live in Warwick with my husband and son, and my daughter currently lives and works in Australia.
I was born and brought up in Orpington, Kent, and have loved writing most of my life. I studied English Literature at Lancaster University, and my first permanent job was as a production secretary with the BBC. Later I lived for nearly five years in Australia before returning to live and work in the UK.
My output includes mystery fiction, and historical and paranormal nonfiction. Each of my nonfiction books is illustrated by 100 original full colour photos, mostly taken by myself, and others by my son and daughter (both talented photographers!)
In March 2023 I was the Nonfiction Adjudicator at the Scottish Association of Writers Annual Conference in Glasgow. I’m a member of the Society of Authors and the Association of Christian Writers.
My nonfiction books on Warwickshire are published by Amberley and include Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire and A-Z of Warwick. My next book for Amberley will be: Paranormal Gloucestershire. I also have a new contemporary gothic fantasy novel in progress, called Director’s Cut.
In addition to my published books, I blog weekly on scskillman.com about books and films I love, people and places of inspiration, life, spirituality, history and travel.
I’m also a public speaker and have spoken to many groups and organisations about Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire, the quirky tales of Warwick, the art of writing nonfiction, and the power of story. Do get in touch with me if you’d like a speaker for your group!
September 14, 2024
Book Review: ‘Banshee’ by Lindsay Rumbold, a Gripping Tale of Espionage and Conspiracy in the World of Aviation
Today I’m pleased to bring you my review of a newly published cold war thriller, Banshee by Lindsay Rumbold, published by Resolute Books.
Author Lindsay RumboldI’ve known Lindsay for several years, formerly as a member of my local writers group, and have listened to her reading early passages from this book, so it has been thrilling to see her complete and bring this novel to publication, knowing how long she has worked on it.
‘Banshee’, a cold war aviation thriller by Lindsay Rumbold, published 2024 by Resolute BooksMy 5-star ReviewThis Cold War Spy Thriller story is set in Warwickshire in an area roughly approximating to Gaydon and is written in two timelines: 2022 alternates with 1964. I liked the way the story was structured in this way: I found it increased the mystery and the suspense.
In 2022 a hidden RAF bunker is discovered underground by a digger preparing to clear the land to build a new Wind Tunnel Facility; in the bunker is a skeleton in a suit, and lots of classified RAF Security Papers. Alex Farnsworth of the RAF is asked to investigate the identity of the skeleton, in collaboration with Warwickshire Police.
In 1964 Tony, a Vulcan pilot on the RAF base, has discovered a dangerous flaw in his aircraft and he is furious. The story continues from here, between the two timelines 60 years apart, and the tension builds up as it becomes clear in 2022 that these buried papers are even now to be regarded as Top Secret, UK Eye Only. It also becomes clearer and clearer that the skeleton belonged to a murder victim, but the investigation into his background and situation involves ever more complex webs of espionage, revenge and betrayal; and there is always the temptation to leave well alone.
The author is herself an aerospace engineer and the depth of expertise and minute knowledge of Vulcan aircraft, bomb bays and secret weapons that she weaves into her novel is astonishing. Alongside this, the story contains at least thirty-three different named characters over the two timelines, in the RAF, the police, MI5, and amongst diplomats and spies. I advise the general reader to hang in there, for the human interest side of the story becomes much more intense and compelling: the identity of the 1964 murderer; the inescapable evidence of sabotage by a double agent embedded in the RAF, leading to tragedy; and the need to uncover and expose the truth about two spies, both past and present.
In 1964, Gordon Thompson, Junior Engineering Officer, is the key protagonist; and Alex is our main viewpoint focus in 2022. I liked both of them and was keenly following their progress and the challenges that came their ways. Throughout the story I feel I learned an enormous amount, and gained insights into the constant need for vigilance at the highest level in a world where double agents are ever present.
I loved the way in which the complex puzzle is finally unravelled, finding it ingenious and ultimately both poignant and moving. I felt particularly engaged by the theme of long-held secrets coming to light many decades later through the involvement of the next generation, and perfectly integrated with a spur-of-the-moment decision by one individual sixty years before. To me the ending was sad, contained a satisfying element of poetic justice, and gave me so much to reflect upon and to speculate about, especially the subsequent destiny of one particular key character!
Highly recommended to lovers of Cold War spy thrillers.
September 12, 2024
What’s On My Kindle Now
Most keen readers have ‘To Be Read’ piles.
I have a physical pile of TBR books and many on my kindle. The popularity of ebooks is said to be almost taking over that of physical books, but many kindle readers will admit to downloading ebooks then forgetting they’re on the kindle, waiting to be read.
Sometimes I have a frenzy of downloading ebooks from Amazon. An author friend is bringing out a new book and I’m keen to read and review it, but then… another author friend brings out his or her new book, and the same applies there, and then two or three others want me to read an advance copy for a blog tour, and yet another has just opened up pre-orders, so I definitely want to read that, and so on. So, apart from deadlines for my slot on a blog tour, which book do I choose to read next?
Since I frequently review my kindle library, I don’t forget what’s there, but have often been aware of shifting priorities in terms of ‘what to read next’. I’m conscious that people may buy my books from me at fairs and author talks and book festivals, but when do they get round to reading it? Now? Two weeks time? A year’s time? That’s the true test, and something over which we have no control. Sometimes, as a reader, I’ll start a few books and make my choice based entirely on what grabs me about the first page, and whether it suits my mood, and jumps out at me as the thing I need to read now.
Some people might get their book recommendations from Twitter but I find so many recommendations from book bloggers and fellow authors that I’m never at a loss for new reading ideas!
There’s no doubt, the first page is the hook. So we writers cannot really complain when literary agents and commissioning editors apply exactly the same principle with our own submitted manuscripts!
Here’s what’s on my current reading carousel on my kindle. I began each of these books but have now settled on one which hooks me right now and which I need to read all the way through as my top priority, before I return to one of the others.
Whose Body? by Dorothy L Sayers
Whose Body? by Dorothy L SayersA fellow author who writes cosy crime blogged about Dorothy L Sayers, saying she is up there with the best of the golden age cosy crime writers with her main protagonist Lord Peter Wimsey. I was then reminded once again how shocking it is that I’ve never read Dorothy L Sayers – so here is her first book in the genre. I must say, so far, I’m a bit mystified by the character of Lord Peter, who seems irritatingly facetious, but I’ve read enough to know that his character becomes much more complex later. That intrigues me, so I’ll definitely come back to this novel.
Father Brown: Essential Tales by G.K. Chesterton
Father Brown Essential Tales by GK Chesterton
Inspired by the wonderful TV drama series Father Brown, starring the brilliant actor , I thought it was about time I read some of the original stories by G.K. Chesterton, a great author whose wisdom I’ve read and known about for years. Sometimes classic fiction or nonfiction pass you by only because of the tidal wave of other books to grab your attention, but I have long known about Father Brown, and now is the time to become acquainted with the original character. So far I find the style a bit wordy, but can see Father Brown’s genius in alighting upon solutions, and I’ll return to the stories better prepared for the author’s literary style.
Strraight as a Jalebi by Ritu BhathalStraight as a Jalebi by Ritu Bhathal – I loved Ritu’s first book in The Rishtay Series, Marriage Unarranged, and am curious to see how the author handles the subject of gay relationships within the tightly knit, marriage-orientated Indian community in Britain. Again, I feel the mood must be right to thoroughly engage in this story, so once more, this is one for me to return to.
Becoming Queen Bathsheba by Amanda BedzrahBecoming Queen Bathsheba by Amanda Bedzrah – a look at the story of King David’s adulterous pursuit of Bathsheba, from the woman’s point of view. I listened to an interview with the author on a podcast, and that was the first time I’d heard of her, and of this book. Once more I feel this is a novel awaiting the right moment for me to read and absorb.
The Art of Life by SL RussellThe Art of Life by S.L.Russell (published Resolute Books 2024) – recently published, this is the latest offering from seasoned fiction author SL Russell who writes moving, challenging stories of contemporary dilemmas from the point of view of women in different key professions or vocations.
Fen Bailey, the main protagonist of this novel, is outwardly well placed in a financially comfortable marrriage with a grown up son and daughter both doing well but she longs to escape from her disparaging, unsympathetic husband who has no interest whatsoever in her creative calling as an artist. I began to feel the pull of this novel on the first page, as I engaged with Fen’s feelings – and it did lead me to reflect how lucky I am to have a husband, a son and a daughter, who are encouraging and supportive in my compulsion to be a writer, and an artist.
Now this story has me hooked, and I’ll read right through to the end, as Fen discovers a strange and lonely rundown art school in Yorkshire, which promises to give her the space and freedom to realise her dream of painting a lifesize canvas with very big themes, based on images from The Book of Revelation.
Why not join me on my writing and publishing journey, and sign up to receive my monthly newsletter packed with news and insights from the writing and publishing world, and gems from my research discoveries. Plus you’ll be the first to hear when I have a new book coming out.
And if you’d like to show your appreciation of my writing please do buy me a coffee!
About MeHello! My name’s Sheila and I write under the pen name of SC Skillman. I live in Warwick with my husband and son, and my daughter currently lives and works in Australia.
I was born and brought up in Orpington, Kent, and have loved writing most of my life. I studied English Literature at Lancaster University, and my first permanent job was as a production secretary with the BBC. Later I lived for nearly five years in Australia before returning to live and work in the UK.
My output includes mystery fiction, and historical and paranormal nonfiction. Each of my nonfiction books is illustrated by 100 original full colour photos, mostly taken by myself, and others by my son and daughter (both talented photographers!)
In March 2023 I was the Nonfiction Adjudicator at the Scottish Association of Writers Annual Conference in Glasgow. I’m a member of the Society of Authors and the Association of Christian Writers.
My nonfiction books on Warwickshire are published by Amberley and include Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire and A-Z of Warwick. I’ve just delivered a fourth book to the publishers: Paranormal Gloucestershire. I also have a new contemporary gothic fantasy novel in progress, called Director’s Cut.
In addition to my published books, I blog weekly on scskillman.com about books and films I love, people and places of inspiration, life, spirituality, history and travel.
I’m also a public speaker and have spoken to many groups and organisations about Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire, the quirky tales of Warwick, the art of writing nonfiction, and the power of story. Do get in touch with me if you’d like a speaker for your group!
August 7, 2024
The Best Books About the Paranormal or the Supernatural With a Creeping Sense of Unease
Today I share my entry on the book recommendation website shepherd.com. With Shepherd, you can explore, discover, read. It’s a brilliant idea for readers to find books based on themes, tone, plot elements and many other variables more subtle than broad genre categories.
The best books about the paranormal or the supernatural with a creeping sense of unease
What did I love about each book?List bySC Skillman
I have been fascinated by the paranormal since I was young: always a lover of ghost stories, I have long felt the spiritual resonance in certain places; the energy and spirits of the past remain trapped within the fabric of certain buildings and the land, waiting for the sensitive to come along. I developed this passion by reading classic and modern-day ghost stories, going on ghost tours, and visiting haunted places. I listen to and record people recounting their experiences of real-life encounters. I write nonfiction books about the paranormal, specifically about Shakespeare’s ghosts and spirits in his county of Warwickshire, and novels that develop this theme.
I wroteA Passionate SpiritBy SC Skillman
What is my book about?A little girl lost. An ill-omened spiritual healer. A raven with its eye on a prize.
A Passionate Spirit is… show more.
PreviewAmazonMore buying optionsShepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The books I picked & whyThe Little StrangerBy Sarah Waters
Why did I love this book?I felt this story reaching out into my thoughts and my life while I was reading it, so I couldn’t wait to get back to it, and in this unsettling weirdness lies its power. I was utterly gripped by the author’s slow build-up of fear, grief, and madness in the family; I felt haunted by the house’s invisible ‘something bad.’ I had to get back to this story at every opportunity, and I would wake up thinking about the characters and wondering what would happen to them. What is this book about?
PreviewAmazonMore buying optionsMidnight is a Lonely PlaceWhy did I love this book?I imagined myself in the desolate place on the Essex coast where the main protagonist had gone, and I felt an invidious sense of dread as the atmosphere built up. The air of supernatural menace seems to breathe out of this story: the threat and the fear crept into me as if I were there myself, knowing something terrifying would happen, willing the main protagonist to get out and save themselves but knowing that I, just like them, would be held fast by those invisible and supernatural tentacles. What is this book about?
PreviewAmazonMore buying optionsThe Spirit EngineerBy A. J. West
Why did I love this book?I felt this was one of the creepiest tales I have ever read. Its creepiness penetrated my own mind with its portrayal of perverse behavior among the living, the increasingly deranged mental state of the main protagonist, and the fervor of the Goligher Circle as they purported to contact the dead.
Pity and terror combine in this story; my empathy was with those they lured, drawn by their grief and despair. Primitive emotions are stirred up by the threat of supernatural danger; I felt shocked by the ingenious plot twist near the end. What is this book about?
PreviewAmazonMore buying optionsSpiritedBy Julie Cohen
Why did I love this book?I found this story enchanting. It utterly gripped me throughout with its compelling atmosphere of mystery, sheer horror and creepiness, and fascination with the idea of spirit photography. I felt captivated by the two main female characters and their developing intimate, emotional, and tense relationship.
My heart and soul were with these two women and the author’s beautiful craftsmanship weaving through the characters and story an intelligent and powerful debate about life after death. What is this book about?
PreviewAmazonMore buying options
The Winter GuestBy W. C. Ryan
Why did I love this book?I felt a powerful sense of tragic history and increasing pity and fear as this story progressed with its brooding, fateful, gothic atmosphere and hints of the supernatural in a gloomy, coastal house in Ireland. I became swept up by the gathering intensity and intrigue and the multiple shocks that arise from the main protagonist’s discoveries. I was absorbed in this compelling, thought-provoking story and captivated by its ingenious plot. What is this book about?
PreviewAmazonMore buying optionsDon’t forget about my Book
A Passionate SpiritBy SC Skillman
What is my book about?A little girl lost. An ill-omened spiritual healer. A raven with its eye on a prize.
A Passionate Spirit is a modern gothic novel set in the present-day Cotswolds. Zoe is an idealistic young woman who leads a creative retreat with her priest husband and suspects a beautiful and mysterious guest of evil intentions. Only when the eerie visitor seduces the priest and all the guests with miracle healings does our heroine unmask this High Priestess and find herself forced to confront awesome supernatural power. She must risk death if she is to save the sanity of them all.
PreviewAmazonMore buying options
Hello! My name’s Sheila and I write under the pen name of SC Skillman. I live in Warwick with my husband and son, and my daughter currently lives and works in Australia.
I was born and brought up in Orpington, Kent, and have loved writing most of my life. I studied English Literature at Lancaster University, and my first permanent job was as a production secretary with the BBC. Later I lived for nearly five years in Australia before returning to live and work in the UK.
My output includes mystery fiction, and historical and paranormal nonfiction. Each of my nonfiction books is illustrated by 100 original full colour photos, mostly taken by myself, and others by my son and daughter (both talented photographers!)
In March 2023 I was the Nonfiction Adjudicator at the Scottish Association of Writers Annual Conference in Glasgow. I’m a member of the Society of Authors and the Association of Christian Writers.
My nonfiction books on Warwickshire are published by Amberley and include Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire and A-Z of Warwick. I’ve nearly completed my fourth book for Amberley: Paranormal Gloucestershire. My new novel, a contemporary gothic fantasy called Director’s Cut, is currently with agents.
In addition to my published books, I blog weekly on scskillman.com about books and films I love, people and places of inspiration, life, spirituality, history and travel.
I’m also a public speaker and have spoken to many groups and organisations about Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire, the quirky tales of Warwick, the art of writing nonfiction, and the power of story. Do get in touch with me if you’d like a speaker for your group!
If you’ve enjoyed reading this why not sign up to join me on my writing journey. You’ll receive my monthly newsletter straight to your inbox in which I share gems and snippets from my research discoveries, news and insights from the writing and publishing worlds, and you’ll be the first to know when I have a new book coming out.
And if you’re a regular reader of this blog and would like to support me on my writing journey you can buymeacoff.ee/scskillman and I’d be very grateful.
July 25, 2024
Blog Tour For New Crime Novel by DI Hunter Wilson Crime Series Author Val Penny: ‘HUNTER’S RULES’
Today I’m delighted to be a stop on the blog tour for the latest novel in Val Penny’s Edinburgh crime fiction series: ‘Hunter’s Rules‘. I’ve loved these books since I read the first in the series: The DI Hunter Wilson Crime Thrillers.
AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
Val Penny has an Llb degree from the University of Edinburgh and her MSc from Napier University. She has had many jobs including hairdresser, waitress, banker, azalea farmer and lecturer but has not yet achieved either of her childhood dreams of being a ballerina or owning a candy store.
Until those dreams come true, she has turned her hand to writing poetry, short stories,nonfiction books, and novels. Her novels are published by SpellBound Books Ltd.
Val is an American author living in SW Scotland. She has two adult daughters of whom she is justly proud and lives with her husband and their cat.
Author Photo of Crime Fiction Novelist Val PennyBLURB
A bloody scene brings Hunter and Meera’s romantic plans to an abrupt end.
A young woman attacked in a hotel lift has life changing injuries. Her wounds match those inflicted on two women who were murdered.
When Hunter is identified as a suspect in the case, he must establish his innocence to lead his team and solve this bloodcurdling crime.
Is the same person responsible for all three crimes?
Will the girl in the lift finally identify who is targeting these young women ?
Hunter will stop at nothing until he catches the unhinged killer.
In ‘Hunter’s Rules’ I enjoyed yet another fast-paced journey alongside Val Penny’s characters as she develops their relationships with each other over the course of this series: the police and their banter; the loveable rogues Frankie and Jamie who always seem to graze very close to breaking the law but instead end up helping their pal, ‘Blondie’, in the police; Jamie’s jailbird ‘pop’, Ian Thomson, constantly advising his son over the phone; Arjun Mansoor, the much-feared criminal whose long-term prison sentence does nothing to prevent the operation of ‘his long reach’, and the evasive, slippery interviewees who always have something to hide which they don’t want anyone else to know about, but which hampers the police in finding the murderer.
This story opens with the discovery of a young woman in a lift at Edinburgh’s most prestigious hotel, the victim of a gruesome attack by, we presume, a psychopath with a fetish for collecting human eyes. Hunter and his beloved, Meera, once again find their romantic plans disrupted by a vicious murder demanding their immediate attention; and the familiar team at Police Scotland whom we have grown to love, begin their lightning-speed teamwork. The story powers along with Val Penny’s now-familiar blend of humour, racy dialogue, insights into the distorted criminal mind, and cat-and-mouse interviews in the unsavoury surroundings of the police interview rooms, accompanied by very dodgy coffee.
One of the many aspects that give this novel its edge are the intermittent passages in the mind of the killer: set out in italics; they show the killer pleased with his handiwork, seeking to get close to the recovering victim, often just giving the police the slip by a hair’s breadth: this device ratchets up the tension.
A dramatic and shocking denouement rewards the reader in this the latest of Val Penny’s popular DI Hunter Wilson crime series.
LINK TO BUY
WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS
Website – https://www.valpenny.com
Amazon Author Page – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Val-Penny/e/B07C4725TK
Author Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/valerie.penny.739
Author Twitter Page @valeriepenny
Author Instagram Page https://www.instagram.com/valerieepenny/
The author wants to see and share your posts.
Please include the hashtag #HUNTERSRULES when you are sharing your posts
Why not sign up to join my mailing list? You’ll receive my monthly newsletter straight to yoiur inbox . I share gems and snippets from my research discoveries and news and insights from the writing and publishing worlds, plus you’ll be the first to know when I have a new book coming out.
Author Photo of SC SkillmanHello! My name’s Sheila and I write under the pen name of SC Skillman. I live in Warwick with my husband and son, and my daughter currently lives and works in Australia.
I was born and brought up in Orpington, Kent, and have loved writing most of my life. I studied English Literature at Lancaster University, and my first permanent job was as a production secretary with the BBC. Later I lived for nearly five years in Australia before returning to live and work in the UK.
My output includes mystery fiction, and historical and paranormal nonfiction. Each of my nonfiction books is illustrated by 100 original full colour photos, mostly taken by myself, and others by my son and daughter (both talented photographers!)
In March 2023 I was the Nonfiction Adjudicator at the Scottish Association of Writers Annual Conference in Glasgow. I’m a member of the Society of Authors and the Association of Christian Writers.
My nonfiction books on Warwickshire are published by Amberley and include Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire and A-Z of Warwick. I’m now researching a fourth book for Amberley: Paranormal Gloucestershire. I also have a new contemporary fantasy novel in progress, called Director’s Cut.
In addition to my published books, I blog weekly on scskillman.com about books and films I love, people and places of inspiration, life, spirituality, history and travel.
I’m also a public speaker and have spoken to many groups and organisations about Paranormal Warwickshire, Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire, the quirky tales of Warwick, the art of writing nonfiction, and the power of story. Do get in touch with me if you’d like a speaker for your group!
