Anita Loughrey's blog. This is my journal about my experiences and thoughts on writing. As well as news about me and my books, it includes writing tips, book reviews, author interviews and blog tours.
For more information about me and my books see my website: www.anitaloughrey.com. Follow me on Twitter @amloughrey, Facebook @anitaloughrey.author and on Instagram @anitaloughrey
It is my pleasure to be spotlighting Sue Klauber’s new historical novel Cobalt today. Cobalt by Sue Klauber was released September 12th 2024 and is published by Troika Books.
This is the follow-up story to Zinc about three Jewish siblings John, George and Eva who continue to play different roles to help the war effort in WW2.
As with Zinc, Cobalt would be ideal as a class text to support a study of on WWII. It provides an insightful reflection of what life was like for the Jews during WWII, which could be used to trigger discussions on the events and inspire empathy. Historical fiction at its best.
Blurb
George trains in Scotland for his SOE mission to Poland to help the fighters in the Secret Army.
After his work at Bletchley Park, John is now stationed in Cairo in Egypt working on plans to deceive Field Marshall Rommel about the location of the impending battle, while sister Eva in Hungary is finding life for anyone Jewish getting harder and harder as the Nazis harden their grip over the country. Will the siblings ever manage to get together? They share so many memories, but war keeps them apart.
Based on the extraordinary real-life experiences of Sue Klauber’s father (Coding at Bletchley Park), uncle (SOE in Europe) and aunt (Resistance), she wrote Zinc and now Cobalt to illustrate the courage of her Jewish family.
Extract
As part of my spotlight post I have been lucky enough to include an extract from the novel.
Sue is an experienced fundraiser and former media educator. She has produced films made by refugee children from Columbia, Kurdistan, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Iran, Armenia and Romania, worked as a fundraiser in arts and social care charities and is now the Trusts and Foundation Lead for a charity where she monitors grants across areas of residential care, community centres, physical disability and Holocaust survivors’ services.
Sue’s exciting middle-grade novels, set in the Second World War, are based on the extraordinary real-life experiences of her father, uncle and aunt.
They showcase the active and courageous participation of her North London Jewish family in the wartime struggle against tyranny.
Sue is available for author events in a variety of contexts, such as schools, libraries and community groups. Find out more, including contact details to discuss an event, in this flyer: Zinc by Sue Klauber: author events.
You can buy copies of Cobalt by Sue Klauber from your local bookshop, or online at uk.bookshop.org which supports local, independent bookshops.
I will be kicking off an extra special spotlight tour with romance novelist Kate Kenzie to celebrate her novel, A Blend of Magic, which was a semi-finalist in the Book Bloggers Novel of the Year Award (BBNYA) 2024.
About BBNYA and the Spotlight Tours
The Book Bloggers’ Novel of the Year Award (BBNYA) is celebrating the books that made it to the semi-finals with a mini spotlight blitz tour for each title.
BBNYA is a yearly competition where book bloggers from all over the world read and score books written by indie authors, ending with 16 finalists and one overall winner.
If you want some more information about BBNYA, check out the BBNYA Website https://www.bbnya.com/ or take a peek over on Twitter @BBNYA_Official. BBNYA is brought to you in association with the @Foliosociety (if you love beautiful books, you NEED to check out their website!) and the book blogger support group @The_WriteReads.
A Blend of Magic is a 388-page romance fantasy for adults that was publishedon the 31st October, 2023. Here is the blurb:
Blurb
A witch cannot exist on potions and tea alone.
Hiding in the shadows, staunch singleton Willow Anderson is content running her successful business, The Enchanted Emporium. With Christmas days away, she’s eager to exchange selling bespoke tea blends and spells for extended bubble baths and binge-watching festive movies snuggled next to her Maine Coon, Vincent.
Nate never usually runs away from his problems, but drunk and disorientated, he finds himself in a small fisherman’s cottage in the Yorkshire coastal town of Whitby. After discovering his girlfriend’s affair, he is in no rush to return to the City. His wish for time alone in a Christmas-free zone comes true until an uninvited feline guest arrives.
Neither Nate nor Willow want company, especially from each other, but they have little choice when concussion means they must spend at least twenty-four hours together. Sparks fly and not just the romantic kind. When darkness from Willow’s past returns and threatens to destroy all she has worked for, pursuing a love affair is the last thing she needs.
With meddling ghosts and a teenage apprentice with her own matchmaking agenda, love and change are in the air.
But can Willow face her fears, and the past, to capture the happiness she deserves?
My stop on this spotlight tour involves a author interview. So with no more distraactions here is what Kate Kenzie had to say about the writing of A Blend of Magic.
********
Tell us a little about your novel A Blend of Magic.
A Blend of Magic is a paranormal romance with elements of Practical Magic, Netflix’s The Good Witch and Sabrina, The Teenage Witch. Set in Whitby, North Yorkshire, modern witch, Willow Anderson, discovers she needs more than making potions and blending tea for her customers but she is reluctant to face her dark past to have the life and love she deserves. Heartbroken Nate arrives in Whitby to escape the festive season and wants to be alone, until a ginger Maine Coon leads him to the door of an old apothecary, The Enchanted Emporium, and a grumpy Willow. With meddling ghosts and an interfering teenage apprentice, can love flourish or is it destined to fail?
What draws you to writing paranormal romance?
I adore magic and am drawn to anything paranormal. Whether it is witchcraft or hauntings, I am fascinated by how things fit in our everyday world, so I’m surrounded by books and boxsets on the subjects. It felt natural to eave this into my writing and it is a genre I also love to read. Paranormal romance is the ultimate escape without being full on high fantasy – I don’t think I have the skills for that yet – and at times, everyone needs the comfort of a happy ever after.
Talk us through your writing process.
I’m not sure I have a process and if I do, it isn’t efficient or recommended. I’m disorganised and my brain constantly hops from one thing to another. My writing process reflects this especially in the beginning. Usually, I start with a character and setting. Once these are fully formed, I can discover their story, who they are now, where they want to go and where they came from. Willow began as a side character in an unfinished WIP about her apprentice, Amber, but an exercise in my local writing group prompted her to demand a story of her own. As I loved The Enchanted Emporium, I was happy to accept the challenge. While I always know the beginning, middle and end, I struggle to write in chronological order, so I have a hotchpotch of scenes, dialogue and ideas smothering my desktop and hidden in notebooks which I then weave together to make a coherent plot and first draft.
Why Whitby? Talk us through the research you did to recreate this atmospheric setting.
I adore Whitby and it has been my happy place ever since we moved to Yorkshire. If it wasn’t so hilly and I wasn’t so scared going down slopes in my wheelchair, I’d love to live there. The Abbey ruins and the quirky buildings and its links to gothic literature make it hum with the past. It has a magic of its own. Once there walking down its cobbled streets, it was easy to imagine the Enchanted Emporium nestled down one of the many snickets and yards. Research wise, it was mainly absorbing the atmosphere while visiting, photographs and imagination. I have several books on its history which I hope I’ll use more in other books I have planned for the Whitby Witches.
Do you have a favourite character in your book?
My favourite character is Mrs Marley, one of the emporium’s resident ghosts. A gossip, she is comfortable in herself and always speaks her mind. I can’t wait to explore her character more in the next book I’m writing.
Have you got any writing rituals?
I try to write in the morning before everyone wakes, with a strong cup of tea made in a teapot. The ritual of teamaking always helps me get into the creative zone. Each book has its own playlist, and each character has their own song which is either relevant to their story arc or personality. Listening to their music helps me connect to them and their story.
Is there a particular place you like to write?
I’d love to write in cafes but getting out alone is difficult so I mainly at home. I have created a writing space in the tiny spare room. My old desk is surrounded by books on witchcraft, ghosts, folklore and writing. With my cauldron, candles and crystals, it is my own little enchanted space.
What writing advice would you give to people wanting to write paranormal romance?
There is so much advice out there for would be romance authors. Apart from making sure you have the required happy ever after, I’d say have fun and try to enjoy the process. Excitement for your characters or book helps with motivation and determination to tackle any obstacles which there are many. As a genre, there are many threads you can follow – witchcraft, ghosts or other paranormal entities so you can experiment and allow your imagination to fly.
Only that I hope those who read it, enjoy visiting the emporium and meeting its residents as much as I did writing them. If you want more from the Whitby witches and Rosa, they have their own book blog, The Enchanted Emporium’s Bookshelf, where they share their love of reading, particularly fantasy, paranormal or magical books. Rosa also reviews any romance books that arrive in-store or on her Kindle. They also interview authors for their Monday Merry Meets slots.
Where is the best place for people to buy your book?
While A Blend of Magic is available at Amazon and on Kindle Unlimited, I am a huge an of indie bookshops and libraries so they can be ordered from them too. I am privileged have signed books stocked at The Whitby Bookshop. It is a lovely shop to pop into if you are ever in Whitby soaking up the sea air and atmosphere.
Signed copies are also available direct from me and through my ko-fi page if you’re in the UK.
Kate Kenzie may not be Yorkshire born and bred, but it’s where her heart is and why her fictional worlds are set in the Moors and her favourite haunt, Whitby. Creator of the Enchanted Emporium and its residents, she blogs book reviews and author interviews at The Enchanted Emporium Bookshelf.
Part-time writer, and full-time dreamer, if she’s not reading from her over flowing TBR pile, she is writing or drinking tea. Like many, she always dreamed of being an author but notebooks of half-finished novels and children’s stories were pushed aside in adulthood until a random Facebook conversation rekindled her passion for world building. By receiving a bursary for the RNA New Writer’s Scheme, she found her tribe.
Awarded the Katie Fforde bursary this year, she writes romantic and paranormal fiction, especially witch lit.
Her short story, The Ghost Writer, is available in an anthology, Byline Legacies by Cardigan Press.
You can find ouut more about Kate kenzie by subscribing to her newsletter: http://subscribepage.io/katekenzie and by following her on her social media:
I am happy to be involved with the cover reveal for an exciting new horror historical novel, A Dress to Kill For by Tessa Hatjarjanto.
A Dress to Kill For is a horror short story, perfect for those who love The Picture of Dorian Gray and Crimson Peak. It is released on Monday 30th September 2024.
Here is a little teaser:
Blurb
How much are you willing to sacrifice to gain everything you ever wanted?
Lady Claire Rosewood lives on the fringes of society, pitied by the people she used to call her friends, and her husband is no longer the suave businessman he once was. Frustrated with both her status and her marriage, she longs for more.
When an opportunity presents itself that allows her not only to be part of higher society, but to mingle with the elite, she needs to make a choice. Every rise to the top comes at a cost, but is she ready to pay with blood?
You can read reviews of A Dress to Kill For by Tessa Hatjarjanto on: Goodreads.
To purchase a copy go to Universal Book Link to choose your prefered format. Or if you subscribe to Tessa’s newsletter you will be able to receive a free copy of A Dress to Kill For by Tessa Hatjarjanto sent straight to your inbox on September 28th 2024. To sign up for this fantastic free offer go to Tessa’s website: www.tessahastjarjanto.com.
So the moment you have all been waiting for here is the cover for A Dress to Kill For by Tessa Hatjarjanto:
A Dress to Kill For by Tessa Hatjarjanto
The cover was designed by Tessa Hastjarjanto and created using Feastock / Depositphoto.
About the author
Tessa Hastjarjanto is a Dutch/Indonesian writer from the Netherlands. She writes speculative fiction, and blogs at narratess.com about books, fountain pens, and writing.
From a young age, she imitated popular stories and games in creating her own worlds. This love eventually led to a master’s degree in media and game studies at the University of Utrecht.
However a mundane desk job was enough to inspire her to follow her creative passion. The first fanfics were written in lunch breaks and soon original fiction followed.
With the support of her husband, she now focuses on her writing career while battling chronic pain. Swiss white shepherd, Shiro, acts as a therapy dog to keep her healthy and reduce stress through extensive cuddle sessions.
My spotlight today is for The Carousel Horse written by Tony Mitton and iIllustrated by Penny Neville-Lee.
This beautiful picture book is a timeless, magical tale of a carousel pony who comes to life and goes on an adventure by moonlight. it is publsihed by Bloomsbury and will be released later this week on Thursday 12th September.
Blurb
The Carousel Horse spends his days giving children rides at the fair. But secretly he dreams of something more . . .
When a beautiful, sparkling princess appears and helps him to break free from his carousel, the two of them soar into the sky on a grand journey that takes them to the moon and back.
But where is home for the Carousel Horse? Discovering that might just be the greatest adventure of all.
With a lyrical rhyming text by the much-missed Tony Mitton, acclaimed poet, and stunning, luminous illustrations by rising star Penny Neville-Lee, The Carousel Horse is a magical story about following your dreams and finding out where you belong – perfect for sharing at bedtime.
About the Author
Tony Mitton was born in North Africa, and grew up in Africa, Germany, Hong Kong, and England. He was a much-loved poet, teacher and writer of children’s books, and lived for many years in Cambridge, England.
About the Illustrator
Penny Neville-Lee is a painter and illustrator specialising in children’s books. With an MA in Painting from The Royal College of Art, she is happiest when surrounded by pencils and coming up with ideas for beautiful books.
My spotlight today is for The Seamaiden’s Odyssey, written by Berlie Doherty and illustrated by Tamsin Rosewell. This middle fantasy is due for publication on the 5th September 2024 by UClan Publishing.
Blurb
From twice Carnegie Medal-winning author, Berlie Doherty, comes a stunning new fable, drawing on the folklore of ocean and landscape to create a magical coming-of-age novella for the modern era, brought to life by Tamsin Rosewell.
A strange and beautiful sea-creature is brought into the marine sanctuary where Sasha works. The sea-girl is kept as an exhibit and for scientific research. But Sasha wants to know more about her – are there more of her kind? What sort of community does she come from? Does she have a family?
There is a story to be told, in exchange for a promise. It is a story of cruelty and grief, of love and longing and pride; the story of Merryn, who makes a traumatic journey from sea and to land, from defiance to finding her true self and the power of sisterhood.
About the Author
Berlie Doherty is the author of the best-selling novel, Street Child, and over 60 more books for children, teenagers and adults, and has written many plays for radio, theatre and television.
She has been translated into over twenty languages and has won many awards, including the Carnegie medal for both Granny Was a Buffer Girl and Dear Nobody, and the Writers’ Guild Award for both Daughter of the Sea and the theatre version of Dear Nobody. She has three children and seven grandchildren, and lives in the Derbyshire Peak District.
About the Illustrator
Tamsin Rosewell is an artist, historian and broadcaster with a background in politics. She was a bookseller for 15 years, with a specialist knowledge in children’s and picture books before moving to illustration.
She is also known for her painted window displays. Tamsin is a regular panel speaker and Festival event chair, as well as being a judge of the Stratford Salariya Picture Book Prize. She is based at 55-year-old independent bookshop, Kenilworth Books, but divides her time between London, Oxford and Warwickshire
To discover more about The Seamaiden’s Odyssey, Berlie’s inspiration and view some of Tamsin’s artwork take a look at Belie Doherty’s website: www.berliedoherty.com.
You can see my other spotlights of Berlie Doherty’s books on my blog here:
Today I am pleased to announce I am on the blog tour for a unique mystery murder published by Usborne, which is the first in a brand new series, The Beanstalk Murder by P.G Bell.
My stop on the tour takes the form of a book review.
********
Title: The Beanstalk Murder
Written by: P.G. Bell
Illustrated by: George Ermos
Published by: Usborne
Blurb
THE BFG meets MURDER MOST UNLADYLIKE in this giant-sized whodunnit with a witchy twist, from the author of the bestselling The Train to Impossible Places.
Trainee meadow witch Anwen is having a bad day – which gets much worse when a dead giant falls from the sky and destroys her village. But when she examines the body she discovers something interesting. This giant was murdered, which means a killer is on the loose!
Tasked with sending a message to the giant kingdom via beanstalk, Anwen and her nemesis, trainee sorceress Cerys, accidentally find themselves whipped up into the sky and deposited in the giants’ royal palace – where the king is missing. Using their perfect spy-size and witchy skills, the girls must track down his killer. But how can you investigate a murder mystery when you risk being stepped on by your suspects?
Review
When the Giants’ king is murdered, 11-year-old Anwyn Sledge the Meadow Witch apprentice and her nemises, Cerys Powell, have to work together to discover who-done-it.
This is a fun fast-paced mystery adventure, with well-developed 3-dimensional characters and brilliant writing that will keep young readers gripped to the end.
I was particularly impressed with the main characters’ voices, which highlighted the conflict between Anwen and Cerys and made for some hilarious scenes – a great example of show rather than tell. The gradual development of their relationship was also real and believable.
I enjoyed this middle grade cosy crime, full of twists and turns and a totally surprising yet crediable murderer.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series, The Big Bad Wolf is Dead.
Extract
Anwen was hiding behind a horse.
She was doing her best to pretend that she wasn’t hiding, of course – that she was, in fact, just standing there, minding her own business in a sheltered corner of the tavern stable yard – but she wasn’t a very accomplished liar, even when she was lying to herself. She was hiding all right, and the thought of it was downright embarrassing. Not so embarrassing that she was about to stop doing it, though – Cerys Powell was out there somewhere, and Anwen really didn’t want to bump into her.
As hiding places went, this was quite a good one. By peering around the horse’s backside, she could see most of the busy market crowd without being seen herself. She stroked the horse’s flank as her eyes darted from person to person, searching for the telltale flashes of golden hair or sea-blue dress that meant Cerys was on the prowl.
“I don’t see her anywhere,” she told the horse. “Perhaps she already left for the Academy.”
The beast snorted and flicked its tail in her face.
“There’s no need to be like that,” Anwen said. “I know you’re hungry, but I already told you I haven’t got any food. And don’t pretend you didn’t understand me, because I’m fluent in horse, I’ll have you know. Well, fluent in pony, actually, but it’s virtually the same thing.”
She realized this last statement had been a mistake when the horse huffed and stamped its hoof, narrowly missing her toes. Anwen sighed.
“Fine, I know when I’ve worn out my welcome,” she said. “Honestly, why do horses have to be so snobbish?”
Cautiously, she stepped out from behind the animal. She felt exposed, and her hand went instinctively to the sprig of lucky heather woven through the untidy thatch of her hair. Come on, Anwen, she thought. You’ve got a job to do. Feeling a little more confident, she smoothed down her green woollen dress and made her way into the market square.
********
About the Author
P.G. Bell is a native of South Wales, where he was raised on a diet of Greek mythology, ghost stories and Doctor Who. He’s had all sorts of jobs over the years, from lifeguard to roller-coaster operator, but has always wanted to write stories. He lives in Wales with his wife Anna and their two children.
P. G. Bell author photo
The Train to Impossible Places, P.G.’s debut series, has enjoyed widespread success, including shortlistings for the Branford Boase Award, the Crimefest Awards and the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize.
You can find out more about P. G. Bell and his novel from his website:
Join me today on the blog tour for a brilliant new adventure series for early readers, ages 6 – 7, which have been packaged as graphic novels.
My stop on the tour takes the form of a book review.
********
Title: Tangletree Mysteries
Written and Illustrated by: Steve Roberts and Joel Stewart
Published by: Wellbeck Publishing
Blurb
Join Peggy the dog and her faithful sidekick, Stew the shrew, as they go on TWO brilliant adventures in Tangletree! This colourfully illustrated comic series is perfect for fans of Narwhal and Jelly.
Peggy the dog has a secret… every day, during her walk in the park, she scampers into Tangletree Wood and becomes a brilliant detective! No mystery is too tricky to solve for Peggy and her faithful sidekick, Stu. Join them for these two twisty adventures:
Case 1: Slime Time
Something strange is happening in Tangletree. Lots of the townsfolk are sleepwalking, and when they wake up, they’re covered in disgusting sticky slime! What could be causing these weird occurrences? Only Peggy and Stu can find out!
Case 2: Mud Race
It’s competition time and the Tangletree Mud Race Challenge is in full swing. But the course this year is incredibly difficult and dangerous! Could it have something to do with a runaway track-laying machine? It’s another case for Peggy and Stu!
A graphic novel series ideal for readers starting to enjoy stories independently, visual readers and aspiring mystery solvers!
****
In book two,Peggy and Stu Play the Wrong Notes, there are two more fun-filled adventures:
Case 1: Trumpet Trouble
It’s the day of the Tangletree Spring Dance and the town band is desperate to play. But the trumpet-player’s trumpet has developed a life of its own and has run off into the forest! Can Peggy and Stu catch it, discover why it’s moving, and save the Spring Dance?
Case 2: Cake Crimes
Tangletree has a visitor: a pop-up bakery with the most delicious cakes. So delicious, the townsfolk can’t stop eating them. And so sweet, they’re giving everyone terrible toothache… Can it be a coincidence that a pop-up dentist has opened up as well?
Review
These bold and vibrant graphic novels where a joy to read and I hope we see a lot more books like this in the future. The short story format of about 30 spreads and told entirely in dialogue speech bubbles, make these books highly accessible to readers just beginning to read independently.
I particularly liked the way Peggy disappears on her walk everyday to visit her office in Tangletree and gets pulled into another adventure with Stu. Then after she has jotted down the mystery they have solved in her casebook at the end the story, she returns to her owner with her ball as if nothing has happened.
There are also a host of other fun and dynamic support characters, such as Flo the cafe owner and my favourite, misunderstood Warrington.
With hilarious plots, these books are ideal for encouraging reluctant readers at Key Stage One and early Key Stage Two. I wish I had something similar when I was at school instead of the formidable Janet and John books. The Tangletree Mysteries definitely make reading fun.
********
To follow the rest of the tour take a look at the schedule:
I would like to thank Antonia Wilkinson for inviting me on this tour. Thank you.
It is my stop on The Write Reads book tour for The Red Tunic by Kate Wiseman, published by Neem Tree Press this month, August 2024.
Blurb
History and gender are intertwined in this fast-paced arresting account of the First World War and its devastating impact on familial and romantic bonds.
As headstrong as her twin is gentle, Nina has never fit the womanly mould society expects of her. Alfie and Nina Mullins have always relied on their shared world of hope and make-believe for comfort, but as the pressure on Alfie to prove himself at the Front mounts, Nina is presented with more possibility than she had ever imagined and the two are pushed in wildly different directions.
Coming of age as the First World War breaks out, the Mullins twins’ fates are inextricably interlinked with the turmoil of conflict in this fascinating exploration of gender roles and the extremes to which war pushes us.
About the Author
Kate was a late developer, attending university to study English and Creative Writing in her late 30s. She was one of the real life ‘Ritas’ featured on the Radio 4 Woman’s Hour Programme commemorating the anniversary of the play, Educating Rita.
Kate is a dedicated and licenced mudlark who is never happier than when she is up to her eyes in mud. She has won several literary awards and this year judged the historical fiction and biography category of the prestigious Eyelands International Book Awards.
My stop on the tour is an author interview about the The Red Tunic
********
What are the underlying themes of The Red Tunic?
The Red Tunic explores people who defied stereotypes and societal expectations in the First World War. Neglected twins Nina and Alfie Mullins grow up heavily reliant on each other. Nina is headstrong, restless and perpetually in trouble; Alfie is a gentle peacemaker. Coming of age when conscription was introduced for all men over 18, it makes sense to Nina to disguise herself as her brother and take his place on the battlefield. Alfie takes Nina’s place as a nurse in a hospital treating those wounded in the war. As they adjust to their new roles, they discover facets of themselves they didn’t know existed.
So I guess the themes are gender, defiance, love, war, joy, despair, loss, hope, stereotyping… there are more but that’s probably enough!
In the acknowledgements of The Red Tunic, you explain that this book has been a ‘labour of love’. How long have you been working on The Red Tunic and what first sparked your interest?
My fascination with the First World War goes back as long as I can remember. It was a turning point between Victorian notions of duty to King and Empire, and more modern attitudes. Some of my favourite novels deal with the First World War, and the outpouring of art of all forms from that catastrophic event was, I think, unprecedented.
I grew up with several brothers and was always interested in books and comics considered ‘boyish’ in those unenlightened times. I loved reading Victor and Tiger and Scorcher – comics intended for boys. I think that this fostered my fascination with war. I wanted to imagine what it would be like for a woman to be placed in that ultra-masculine environment. Research revealed that there have always been women who penetrated the battlefield, usually disguised as men, with the exception of the remarkable Flora Sandes, a British vicar’s daughter who ended up fighting as a woman in the Serbian army. She became a sergeant major and has been commemorated on Serbian stamps.
So, to finally get round to answering your question, I have been thinking about the situation in which Nina and Alfie find themselves for years. Researching and checking took a long time. There was so much that had to be verified: the noise of various weapons on the battlefield, for instance, and the order in which would hear them if you were unlucky enough to be involved in the fight, and the make and weight of the rifle issued to Nina. I started putting words to paper in 2016, I think, and worked on the book for about 5 years.
Do you have a favourite character in your book and why?
I love Nina and Alfie, the twins who swap places, but I also love Great Aunt Julia. She’s the family black sheep – an outspoken suffragette who simply disregards rules that she disagrees with. Everyone is terrified of her, but she cares about Nina and Alfie and is there when they need someone. Very different to Cedric, their cold-hearted father. Nina and Alfie must have inherited their non-conformist attitudes from her. I also like Great Aunt Julia’s outlandish taste in clothes. She wears a hat that looks like a guardsman’s bearskin to a family wedding.
Which resources did you find most useful when researching The Red Tunic?
There are so many brilliant modern novels about the First World War. Birdsong and Pat Barker’s trilogy are special favourites. For a heart-breaking contemporary novel written from the German point of view, read All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque. Peter Jackson’s documentary, They Shall Not Grow Old, is a real revelation. It features colourised original film of the conflict. It makes it seem as if it happened yesterday. Unforgettable. Finally, Sarah Percy’s Forgotten Warriors explores the lives of many of the women who made their mark in historical conflicts, disguised as men.
Have you got any writing rituals?
Nothing very exciting. I prefer to write in the mornings and always start off by rereading what I wrote the previous day. I don’t use a desk anymore; I lie back and balance my laptop on my chest!
What one piece of writing advice would you give to people aspiring to write a novel set in World War One?
Don’t be put off by what others have written before you, or by how they have written it. We all have our own story to tell, and our own voice to write in.
Tell us where you prefer to write and why.
I find that writing on holidays or on writing retreats works well for me. I think it’s because by removing myself from my everyday life and all its routines, I feel free to explore other lives and other worlds. It’s really liberating. I nearly always start a new manuscript while I’m away from home.
Is there anything else you would like to tell readers about The Red Tunic?
Nina’s lover – Liam – is based on my sixth form crush. Apparently he liked me too, but we never declared our love, alas! If he reads The Red Tunic, he will definitely recognise himself.
What are your social media links where can people find out about you and your books?
Where is the best place for people to buy The Red Tunic?
It should be in all good bookshops. If it’s not on the shelves, they can order it for you. Or buy it direct from neemtreepress.com. Thank you!
********
You can read reviews of The Red Tunic on Amazon and Goodreads or follow the tour to discover what othr book bloggers have siad about this WWI historical romance:
I would like to thank Dave from The Write Reads for inviting me on this tour. Thank you.
Today is my slot on the blog tour for the fantasticmiddle grade adventure, The Legendary Mo Seto by A. Y. Chan and publsihed by Simon & Schuster. This exciting action-packed novel was released on June 4th 2024.
My stop on the tour today takes the form of an author interview.
********
What are the underlying themes The Legendary Mo Seto?
The underlying themes in The Legendary Mo Seto are ones every kid can relate to—self-acceptance, loving yourself, forgiveness and figuring out how to navigate friendships and family. Mo’s story is all about setting goals and pushing through challenges, but at its core, it’s about embracing who you are and realizing you’re perfect just the way you are. My hope is that this adventure not only entertains but also inspires kids to believe in themselves and see the greatness they already hold inside.
How do you get inside your character’s heads? Talk us through your writing process.
When I get inside my characters’ heads, I focus on their essence—what makes them them—rather than on their physical appearance. I picture their energy, expressions, and how they move through the world. I love blending in traits from quirky people I know and imagining how they’d react in different situations. Then, I play around with dialogue and tweak their personalities until they feel real and relatable.
In your opinion what are the essential characteristics of a hero you can root for?
To me, a hero you can root for is someone who’s flawed but still redeemable—imperfect, yet relatable. They take charge, making things happen instead of waiting for life to come to them. They might be defiant or even a bit rebellious, but they never cross ethical lines. A true hero trusts their instincts, isn’t dependent on others to solve their problems, and, most importantly, continually challenges themselves to grow. When I created Mo Seto, I wanted her to embody these traits—a real, relatable hero you can’t help but cheer for!
Do you play music whilst your write? If so what is your favourite? If not, why not?
I don’t usually play music while I write because I’m easily distracted! When I’m deep in a scene, especially one with lots of dialogue or action, I need to “hear” the words in my head, and lyrics tend to steal the spotlight. But when I do use music, it’s all about setting the mood with instrumental tracks. For the fight scenes in The Legendary Mo Seto, I’d search for ‘Martial Arts Music’ to capture the right vibe and keep the energy high. While I usually prefer the quiet, sometimes the right music can really bring a scene to life!
If you were to write a spin-off about a side character, which one would you pick and why?
What a fun question! I hadn’t considered a spin-off before, but there are definitely a couple of side characters who could shine in their own stories. Dax, the antagonist, is complex and intriguing—he’s dealing with a tough family situation, and his struggles have shaped him into someone who’s strong-willed but misguided. Exploring his journey as he learns to process his emotions could make for a fascinating story. Then there’s Nacho’s grandfather, Gramps, who has an incredible backstory filled with missed opportunities and dreams of acting. I’d love to dive into his life and see him finally tackle those movie roles he always dreamed of, having the time of his life.
Which part of The Legendary Mo Seto was most fun to write?
The most fun part of writing The Legendary Mo Seto were the fight scenes. I drew on my own experience in taekwondo and all the martial arts movies I’ve loved over the years. In fact, I got to sit down and watch martial arts movies as “research,” which was a blast. Since Mo is trying out for a movie in the story, I wanted the fight scenes to feel cinematic—like you’re right there, watching it all unfold on the big screen. Bringing that energy and excitement to the page was a thrilling challenge, and I hope readers feel that same adrenaline rush when they dive into Mo’s world!
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve ever been given about writing?
The most valuable piece of writing advice I’ve ever received is to keep writing, even when stuck. It’s better to have something on the page, no matter how rough, because you can always edit and improve it later—working with bad writing is easier than staring at a blank page! Another gem is to treat every character like they’re the hero of their own story. Even the side characters need their own hopes, dreams, and arcs. They’re not just there to support the main character—they each bring something unique and important to the story. This approach really shaped The Legendary Mo Seto and made the characters come alive in ways I hadn’t imagined.
Is there anything else you would like to tell readers about The Legendary Mo Seto and writing for children?
What I loved most about writing The Legendary Mo Seto is capturing the optimism and innocence that make middle grade books so special. There’s something magical about the way middle grade stories can uplift you, no matter your age. I’m an adult, and it is still my favourite genre to read! Every time I finish a book, I’m left with a feeling of joy and hope, and that’s what I aimed to convey in Mo’s story. I wanted readers to come away believing that anything is possible and to feel inspired to reach for their dreams. Middle grade books aren’t just for kids—they’re for anyone who needs a little extra magic in their life.
********
About the Author:
A.Y. Chan is the author of The Legendary Mo Seto, a story about a 12-year-old female martial artist who auditions for a movie role opposite her favorite martial arts movie hero—only to find out she’s too small for the role. Growing up in Canada’s Greater Toronto Area, A.Y. read all the middle grade and young adult books she could get her hands on. To this day, those remain her favorite genres.
After achieving her black belt in Taekwondo, she explored a range of other types of martial arts, and she draws upon her experiences in learning new techniques and philosophies to inspire her writing. These days, she continues her martial arts training some mornings, writes in the afternoons, takes long walks to muddle out plot points, and falls asleep reading.
I was lucky enough to receive the 25th anniversary edition of the duology, Bloodtide and Bloodsong by Melvin Burgess, to review as part of the Kaleidoscopic blog tour.
My stop on the tour takes the form of a book review.
********
Title: Bloodtide and Bloodsong duology 25th anniversary edition
Written by: Melvin Burgess
Cover design and Illustration by: Kate McKendrick Grove
Published by: Anderson Press
Blurb
London is in ruins. The once-glorious city is now a gated wasteland cut off from the rest of the country and in the hands of two warring families – the Volsons and the Conors.
In Bloodtide, Val Volson offers the hand of his young daughter, Signy, to Conor as a truce. At first the marriage seems to have been blessed by the gods, but betrayal and deceit are never far away in this violent world, and the lives of both families are soon to be changed for ever…
A generation later, in Bloodsong, fifteen-year-old Sigurd, son of King Sigmund, is the last surviving member of the Volson clan. His father’s kingdom – the former city of London – is gone. Armed with a legendary weapon, Sigurd faces death, fire and torment as he travels through Hel and back to unite his country once again.
Review
This duology is a thrilling and violently gory, fast-paced adventure set in post-apocalyptic United Kingdom, 200 years in the future. Both Signy in Bloodsong and Sigurd in Bloodtide have to fight to overcome the villainous and menacing technology engulfing what is left of the UK.
I was totally consumed by this incredible Terminator meets Lord of the Rings fantasy. The reimagining of Norse Legend mixed with science fiction, kept me turning the pages despite the fact I found the physical book rather bulky and heavy to hold.
With themes of betrayal, revenge and despair, I would recommend this duology to all fantasy fans who enjoy discovering links with popular mythology.
Extract
The top thirty floors had broken away a long time ago, but the Galaxy Building was still the tallest in London. Engineers had cleared it up so it was safe up there – sort of. A man with close, curly white hair was standing on the viewing platform, pointing out landmarks. His face was a net of fine, soft wrinkles and hard lines cut across by a Y-shaped scar over one eye. He was dressed in a loose suit, rolled up at the sleeves. As he leaned forward to point out Big Ben, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge, Docklands and beyond, the man’s jacket hung open. Under the suit was a shoulder holster. You could see the neat, deadly shape tucked inside.
This was Val Volson. He owned half of London.
By his side, following his finger, was a tall, wiry girl aged fourteen. She was wearing a short skirt and leggings and a little green jacket which hung open to reveal another shoulder holster containing another, smaller gun. It was handmade for her – girl-sized. But just as deadly.
You could see it all from up here – the buildings of London, its hills and peaks as far as the suburbs and the Wall. Beyond the Wall, dappled in the distance, lay the halfman lands – acres of rubble and tumbling walls, and the trees turning yellow on this mild autumn day, pushing their way through the Tarmac. After that, the world began.
And far out of sight to the northwest, Ragnor. Its towers and buildings were said to dwarf Old London. Halfman captives said that it seemed to float on the air, made of glittering stripes of light and glass and dark stripes of shadow. At night it shone like a bright little galaxy in the great world Outside. Its very existence was a reminder that London was locked out of the world.
‘And when we’ve got the rest of London just like that,’ said Val. He pushed his thumb down hard onto the palm of his other hand to show just where he wanted the rest of London. ‘Then, my girl, we’ll break out into the halfman lands. And after the halfmen it’s the fields and the farms and the villages and the towns. And after that we take Ragnor itself and deal with the security forces . . .’
‘But the halfmen!’ cried the girl, in an agony of delight and terror.
‘That’s the easy part. They’ll be all dead and gone by then. Then . . . England . . . Europe. Be part of the nation again. We’ll be the nation. Yeah. Not long now. We’re getting so close, Signy!’
********
About the Author
Melvin Burgess was born in London and brought up in Surrey and Sussex. He has had a variety of jobs before becoming a full-time writer. Before his first novel, he had short stories published and a play broadcast on Radio 4.
He is now regarded as one of the best writers in contemporary children’s literature, having won the Carnegie Medal and the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize for his acclaimed novel Junk.
Much To Do About Writing 