Signed Copy? Solution!

Good afternoon from Ladd’s Lockdown Lodge

I’m impatiently waiting for the book to be published in September and frustrated that I can’t do anything about the delay. Nevertheless, I’m an upbeat kind of guy over all, so I have some good news today. I hope you’ll agree.

I’ve had an excellent response to our progress so far and some very kind words from supporters, but one request keeps popping up and I haven’t had a sensible answer until now: “Can I have a signed copy??’. Obviously, publishing a book on both sides of the Atlantic brings with it certain logistical challenges and this is one of them—the cost of sending books back and forth is prohibitive, and, to me very frustrating as I would very much like to be able to sign books for everyone who requests it.

Well, my Publisher, Pen & Sword has stepped up and provided a solution that hopefully will be acceptable to all: Signature plates and here’s how they will work: As we speak, Pen & Sword are sending me vast numbers of plates—self-adhesive pages with a small Pen & Sword logo. I’ll sign each and every one of these—for real. No cutting & pasting or mechanical scribblings. Then I’ll return them to Pen & Sword to await your request. If you purchase the book from Pen & Sword ( https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/From-F-4-Phantom-to-A-10-Warthog-Hardback/p/17799) you can request a plate when ordering, otherwise you can ask for a plate separately. Casemate Books , who will be marketing the book in the States has agreed to provide a similar service—again with a genuine signature-and I’ll provide specific details nearer the time. When your signature plate arrives, peel off the backing, stick it on the inside cover (or wherever) and you’ve got a signed book. Not exactly the same as a signature on the book itself, but under the circumstances, pretty close.

I hope this solution will be acceptable to the majority of you, my potential readers. For the purists among you, depending on where you live and the depth of your pockets, I’m sure we can work out bespoke arrangements.

The lead image above (Source unknown) shows a Cam Ranh Bay Phantom rolling in to deliver Napalm. Controversial, but very, very effective.

Stay calm and keep safe

Steve