Patience and Persistence

Well, it's finally happened. I have taken delivery of my first box of Harriet and the Secret Librarian published copies, after receiving the initial proof copies. The cover design was not quite right, so I created a new cover through the site Poster My Wall. They have many book cover templates to choose from, and it's as simple as arranging where you want the elements on the template, then saving the image. There are 3 options: you can create a design and save for free, but if better quality images are the goal there is they choice of paying $2.99 U.S. or $7.99 U.S. I opted for the first paid option which cost around $4.25 AUD. Much happier with the result this time. It's been a long project since 2015, and the story has had many twists and turns added, along with extra chapters to tie this story in with Harriet and the Secret rings. I have added a dedication to my late husband John who gave much input input with the original manuscript. I have been working on the next in the series, Harriet and the Secret Coins, and enjoying research into Australian life in the goldrush era. The first two novels contain a lot of fiction which is based on fact, and I believe this adds authenticity to the storyline, along with being educational for our young readers. As part of my research I visited the Lambing Flat Museum at Young, NSW, which is the place my young protagonist Harriet and her friend Will first find themselves while on a school history excursion. Lambing Flat (which is now Young), was the scene of violet confrontation in 1861 between gold miners from many different places and the Chinese miners. The man at the museum was very helpful, and gave me quite a bit of info along with an historical site to check out. This third book will be back to adventure, while the latest one is a little more subdued, however, there is a child-eating dragon involved, along with some awful bullies. My aim is to fire the imaginations of our young people aged 9-12, although confident younger readers would also be able to manage the stories. Books are available through me at a cost of $12 plus postage. Please use the contact form to order.