Last week saw the end of my giveaway. Over 800 people entered the draw and sadly only 3 were lucky enough to win a copy of The Crossing. Congratulations to them. The books have now been posted and the lucky recipients should receive them in a week or so. I sincerely hope that they enjoy reading my novel and I look forward to reading their reviews. For the remaining 800 people who were not so lucky, perhaps they would like to try the old fashioned idea. Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com have a great deal going with my book!!!
As the giveaway was so successful I shall probably repeat this early next year.

On a different note, last wednesday evening I attended a Royal Naval Association dinner where the Hon Pres was no other than Sir Edward Du Cann. Some of you Brits might remember him as being quite an illustrious Member of Parliament in the 70's, 80's and I think 90's. Anyway, he gave one of the after dinner speeches and despite his age (85 I believe), he left us all feeling quite bowled over. It was nearly midnight, he stood as he gave his address, needed no crib notes and gave a speech that was reminiscent of when he was at the pinnacle of his distinguished career. Oh how I would love to be able to stand and deliver so well! Perhaps I can borrow him to write my next presentation when it's due.

The new book (The Assassins' Village) edit is well in hand. I think the secret is to keep the story plot taut and exciting and not get too bogged down with the peripherals. The biggest challenge will be when Chris has his first read through as he is one of my biggest critics and is a wizard with the dreaded red pen.

On a fun note. The local bar/coffee/tea shop that we regularly visit is going to change its' name from The Magic Teapot to - wait for it - The Faith Mortimer Bar and coffee shop! Now, I've told you before, that Geraldine the owner is a great fan and sells more of my books than anyone else (including Amazon.) She says what's good for J K Rowling is good enough for me. Wow! Praise indeed.

At last! I have written the final chapter for 'The Assassins' Village.' For some reason this has taken me some time, perhaps I wanted it to be too perfect. Anyway it's done. Now I have the exciting task of editing and reediting until the book has really come alive and is fit for human reading. I have spent so much time this year in marketing my book The Crossing, that I probably would have finished The Assassins' Village a lot quicker if I had not done so. Although my publisher has a marketing plan much has been left up to me to do the necessary to promote sales.
So, for this next book, I really think that I would like a fantastic agent to point me in the right direction.
If ANYONE out there knows of one, or if there is an agent who follows my work then PLEASE get in touch! There is only so much I can do and I know there are agents out there who are brilliant.
Have a great weekend and Good Reading

Faith

What a busy past 2 weeks. There seems to have been no let up both with writing and non literary events.

Firstly, I seem to be participating more and more with charities. I certainly didn't know that when I 'retired' from my 'proper' job. However, it has been very rewarding, great fun and we've raised loads of cash for great causes; namely 2 childrens' homes in Cyprus and Sri Lanka.

One of the ways I have participated is to donate half of my book royalties, during a book signing. Now, a few of you may say: so what? Well it is a big deal if it gives you another reason for being there in the first place. A publicity tour can be ghastly and can leave an author feeling very vulnerable. Imagine, whatever you are trying to sell is being paraded in front of the publics' gaze, much like a Spartan baby exposed to the cruelties of Mount Tygetus. Selling things is part of the modern world, if you have a product, you have to sell it. But, this is no fun if it does not come naturally to you. So, added value like donating to a charity at the same time is a great way of overcoming this. I've discussed this with other authors and the majority feel the same way.

Over the past few weeks I've been hosting my giveaway of copies of The Crossing on Goodreads. It's led to me making lots of new friends, of whom come from all walks of life - a diverse public indeed. Many send me emails on my website www.faithmortimerauthor.com and I enjoy replying about me and my books. Keep them coming please!

A final hurrah today! This must be a red letter day as I have nearly finished the final chapter of my latest novel The Assassins' Village. There are lots of twists in the final pages. The key is how long do I draw it all out without losing readers attention.

A bit like a blog really I suppose...

Keep on reading.

Regards

Faith