Well, what a Bank Holiday weekend it’s been!
On Friday I sent off my latest manuscript to my editor! It’s hard to describe the emotions tied up in pressing send on that email because it’s been two long, hard years since I last completed a book. Anyone who follows this blog regularly will know that I have suffered ill health, including chronic fatigue and immune system problems, and my writing was hit hard – not least because there were days when simply thinking or standing was a struggle. There were times at the beginning when I honestly wondered if I’d ever be capable of writing again. Last year I started doing just that, though, and have been taking things slow and steady, often likening myself to a tortoise in the process (ah, how I longed for the days when I used to be a hare!). There have been times (frequently) when frustration took over and I wondered if I’d ever get it completed. It’s taken around 12 months to finish but it’s with great pride that I can finally say: ‘I’ve done it!’
The completion of the book has coincided with a flurry of other news regarding my backlist, none of which I can share with you right now, but please bare with me as I can’t wait to tell you!
One thing I CAN share with you, however, is how much fun I had yesterday, while chatting all things psychological thriller as part of the wonderful Newcastle Noir’s online festival. I’m on the ‘Am I Losing My Mind?’ panel with Lisa Ballantyne, Louise Candlish and Sarah Stovell. You’ll be able to watch it on Newcastle Noir’s YouTube channel from Saturday at 7pm.