Since 2003 I have enjoyed working as a Creative Writing Tutor allowing me to connect with many fellow writers, both published and unpublished, across the globe. Each student unique in their life experiences, yet all share that inner desire to create stories for others to enjoy. This I will continue to do independently, through this website.

One aspect of writing that I love is when a created character appears on the page and refuses to leave, despite the initial plan. Two lovely examples of this in my own books are Beth, who was literally supposed to appear in one small scene in To Love Honour and Obey, published by Sapere Books, and then became a key character in the romantic adventure.

The more recent character to recur is Miss Jemima Parkes who first appeared in Discovering Ellie and then becomes an integral part of the story arc for The Friends and Foes series. Her love of life and independence is vivid from her first appearance in Discovering Ellie…

“Do you not wish to be married, Miss Parkes?” Ellie had asked her new friend openly before she gave the words thought as to their impropriety. 

“Never! Why should I share my parent’s wealth with some money grabbing spoilt man-child. No, Eleanor, if I have a man in my life, it will be on my own terms.” She looked at Ellie. “Do I shock you?” 

“No, but I envy you; not your wealth, but the freedom it has given you,” Ellie replied. “Then content yourself with the knowledge and wisdom of my future plight, as those two will have you believe, that my lack of a suitor will mean that I will die a lonely, bitter, old maid. You can visit me in my dotage and share some of my loneliness. They do not see that I am pestered by opportunists with ill fortune, gamblers who have wasted their wealth and those who are just filled with greed for more. If I can find one genuine heart that suited my own, I would indeed be happy. Until then I shall enjoy what I have to the fullest.” 

The determined lady was too appealing not to explore her backstory and take her forward to a new beginning. This brings me to an exciting announcement – Silent Revenge – the 3^rd novel in the trilogy, which will soon be available for pre-order!

To celebrate the completion of he Friends and Foes trilogy the Kindle version of Betrayal, the first in the series is now on offer at 99p. from February 17th to the 23rd February.

BETRAYAL: 1814 North Yorkshire, England

Lydia Fletcher is party to a secret. The lives of her father, a young woman and an unborn child depend on her keeping it. Lord and Lady Bagby are using her ailing father’s situation to ensure her compliance with their plans. Samuel Speers, a consulting physician, arrives in the village to purportedly complete a study on the health of the local people. He is really there in search of his cousin, a young woman who had been the Bagbys’ governess, and has disappeared since leaving their employ. He quickly recognises that Lydia may well be the key to solving the mystery and is drawn to her. Realising she is working beneath her natural station in life he presses for information. Lydia is desperate to trust someone, but is that person the handsome doctor?

Lydia needs a solution to her problems and time is becoming desperate.

Who can she turn to?

Dare she disclose what she knows about Samuel’s cousin?

Will she be the next victim of the Bagbys’ plans?

BETRAYAL is a moving, traditional romantic adventure set in Regency, a dramatic period in British history.

“Well written with loads of historical detail and intriguing characters.” 5 star

“A superb read.”

“A testament to the book is that you can hear the characters speak.” 5 star “Highly recommended.” 5 star “Another brilliant read.” 5 star

 The Friends and Foes series, with linked characters, features three novels all of which can be read as standalone or followed in sequence: Betrayal, Secrets and Silent Revenge. 

Enjoy the adventure!

Have you ever had a character stay with you or come alive on the page? 

Please share your thoughts and experiences below.