I'm giving a talk at the Writers' Holiday, a fine programme of events designed to help people who want to become authors.  It's at Caerleon near Cardiff, and if you're interested, there are more details on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

The event has a great reputation as hugely helpful for aspiring writers, and as a good fun time too, so I'm looking forward to my visit. 

There'll also be a little mistiness of nostalgia, I suspect.  I took my journalism diploma in Cardiff, which was my route into the media, and much of the reason the tvdetective books came about.  It's a great city, very vibrant, so I shall look forward to revisiting some old haunts. 

You know what it's like, when the ghosts of days gone by come back to stay.  I'm expecting a poignant time. 

To the more practically minded, I'm also taking my laptop so I can continue the work on the new book, The Balance of Guilt.  The editing is still going smoothly, with all remaining on course for publication in September.  Long may it continue!

I've noticed it's happened to me more than a little in my life.  But on this occasion I'm talking about my last post and the news that I was once a DJ.

I don't want to go into it, said I, or at least not here.  And now, naturally, It's prompted a few questions. So, aAs I promised to answer any that are rasied, here we go -

Ever since I was a kid, I've loved music.  As soon as I could, I got a paper round in my parents' newsagents and spent most of the money on records.  That's singles, 45rpm chunks of vinyl, none of this modern downloading stuff.  I like music you can actually hold in your hand.

Well, the love of music stayed with me, and when I went to college, I looked around for clubs and societies to join.  One seemed to match my outlook perfectly - a place I could indulge myself in music and also talk a lot.  The university radio station...

I joined, was trained up (radio studios look like the cockpit of an aircraft when first you meet them - scary) and duly began jocking.  I started doing gigs in local nightclubs too, and quickly realised I could make more money for less work than my original intention on going to college, which was to become a teacher.

So, when I left, I did some DJing for a while, got bored with that, then shifted into radio news, which finally took me into TV news.  And, of course, working in the media led me into this writing lark, and the tvdetective series.

A confession here.  This post has made me go a little misty eyed.  It must be the fond memories of some fun times of younger days!

One more thing to mention today.  I'm at the Writers' Holiday in Wales next week, talking about the books, how to write novels and get published.  If you fancy coming along, there are details on the News page - www.thetvdetective.com/shownews.html

Why don't I put references to music in my books, I'm asked?  Many authors often quote, or cite songs, to complement scenes.  Why not in the tvdetective series?

It's not because I don't like music. I love it.  In fact, music is how I got into the media and so eventually began writing - I used to be a DJ - but that's a tale too far for this post and a blog for another day!

So, back to the question, before I go off on another Hall meander. Well, I don't put much in the way of music in the books because I fear it can be exclusive.  If you don't know the songs an author is writing about, and you're not minded to look them up, it can be a frustration, a feeling that you're being excluded from a part of the story.  It's as simple as that. 

It comes from personal experience - I have read books where I hear about some song, and it frustrates me, because I don't know it.

The other part of the question is - what's my favourite music?  I like all sorts, but if you pushed me to one songwriter, or artist, I'd go for Paul Simon.  He's got the lot - his melodies are beautiful and haunting, and his lyrics so original and evocative. 

I'm always interested in receiving questions about the books - if you have one, you can get in touch via the contact page of the site - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

I can now reveal I was rather nervous about the whole event.  Firstly, I've done little in the way of trying to give people tips on how to write a book before, so it was a new experience for me.  Secondly, there's always that lingering question - who am I to try to teach?!

However!  I was delighted by the kind feedback (and the reassurances that it was genuine), to the extent that I'd be very happy to hold another workshop, if anyone is interested.  If you want to get in touch, about that or anything else, you can do so via the contact page - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

Last night was beneficial to me in another way, too.  It's often said that you learn as much as the people you're trying to teach when you attempt to pass on some thinking or experiences. That was certainly the case with me.  Preparing for the workshop made me think in detail about how a book works, and what the ingredients for a successful novel are.

I shall diligently attempt to apply those lessons in my future scribblings!

In it come the suggested edits for the new tvdetective book, The Balance of Guilt. 

The reason I always worry about this is the continual fear that I've overlooked some detail which would render the entire plot impossible.  That would mean, at best, a very large amount of rewriting work, and at worst, perhaps even having to start again, almost from scratch.

I'll give you an example of one little such error in a while, but first the main point of this post.

It's good news!  There were no major structural problems found by the editors, so it's only a question of some minor editing, a bit of tidying up, subbing and tightening, and some improved characterisation.

Phew!

That all means Balance of Guilt should be fine for release in September, as per the plan. 

As to the detail of the book, it's the first of the series to be set outside of Plymouth, and involves a terrorist atrocity, but more I'm not saying - for now, at least!

One more thing to mention here.  The Crime Writing Workshop I'm holding tomorrow night (Thurs) in aid of Oxfam.  If you've ever thought about writing a book, or just fancy an entertaining (I hope!) evening out, do come along.  There are details on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Finally, about that previous little error in the editing process - an amused email from my publishers informed me that, in a previous book, the plot all seemed to hang together well, aside from the minor issue... of me killing one of the characters twice!

I've noticed that in almost every one of my scenes, there's some reference to the weather.  And without any conscious effort on my part, the conditions that I rope into my imaginary wanderings seem to complement the occasion. 

In the dramatic scenes, the weather tends to be either wet, or close and dense.  Come the (admittedly rather rarer) jolly interludes, I can usually be relied upon to encourage at least a glimpse of the sunshine.

It's only lately I've really noticed this, and I suppose it's inevitable, as we're all so influenced by the weather.  It's particularly pertinent at this rare moment of warmth, when the summer appears to have at last remembered its job description and people smile as they walk.

Long may it continue, although as ever with the English weather, I travel more with the companion of optimism than any sense of realism.

The answer can be just about anywhere.  I sometimes read a story in the paper, or hear one on the radio, that sets my mind off into a little flurry of thought.  Or I can just imagine one quirk, or theme around which a whole plot can be based - The Death Pictures was like that, the concept of the whole book coming from an idea for one central riddle.

Often I can find the beginnings of a plot in something I see.  Such it was at the weekend, and is the reason behind the odd title of this post.

Firstly, a confession.  I'm a big fan of Morris Dancing.  I think it's a wonderful evocation of a great tradition, and a hugely enjoyable spectacle.

On which subject, congratulations and thank you to all the Morris Dancers who performed in Exeter at the weekend to mark the 40th anniversary of the first Great Western Morris Whit Tour of the city.  I watched several of the events and found them most entertaining.

But!  I didn't realise how competitive Morris Dancing could be.  In the final dance, on Exeter Quay, there was more than a little lively rivalry regading who should be performing next.

Which set the Hall mind wondering about some future plot based around Morris dancing... well, we shall see!

One more thing to mention here.  A week today (Thurs 15th) I'm hosting a Crime Writing Workshop to raise money for Oxfam.  I've almost finished the planning, and it should be a fun night.  If you're interested, there are more details on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

The good news is that - in my humble view, at least - it seems to hang together pretty well and make for a decent story.  I even got quite excited towards the end to find out what would happen - strange perhaps, when you consider I wrote the thing!

The odder news is that I appear to be struggling with my chapter structure.  I've noticed some of them can go on for scores of pages. So, some work to divide them up into more manageable chunks has been required. 

I think I've worked out why that is. When I'm writing, I tend to get so into the book - almost wanting to find out what happens next, like a reader (hopefully) - that I just keep on going and forget to portion it all up. 

The good news is that it's not hard to do - just a question of spotting the natural breaks, with maybe the odd added paragraph or two.  And after some debate, I've now convinced myself that my little chapters issue is a positive sign. 

At least it means I'm enjoying the story, wanting to tell it and believing in it, so coming back to insert proper chapters later seems a reasonable price to pay.

Forgive me for not going into detail, but they're still raw.  I'll be marking what happened in the dedication of the new tvdetective book, The Balance of Guilt, which is due out in Sept, but for now I'd like to just try to get on with life.  I know you'll understand.

The main point of this post is that I wanted to mention the Crime Writing Workshop I'm doing as part of Oxfam's Bookfest.  It's in a couple of weeks time in Exeter, full details are on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

I've been thinking about what to cover, and I hope I can make it interesting and fun as well.  I'll be looking at characterisation, and how to make imaginary people feel convincing in print, as well as the importance of a sense of place in a book, how to make a novel pacey, and plots and subplots too. 

There's plenty to work through, but I'm getting a feel of how it's going to go and think it should be an entertaining evening - or perhaps I mean I hope?!

Be all that as it may, the event is being held to raise money for Oxfam's wonderful work, so if you think you can come along, please do.

Like so many questions, it's one which sounds simple, but in fact is far from it.

Firstly, I never set myself a target of the number of words to write.  I think that's a sure way to scare off any inspiration - it's far better just to try to let it flow, without any strictures.  Plus, a target also gives you an artificial definition of success or failure, which I think is unhelpful.  Surely it's better to write a small number of words which work very well, rather than a mass of nonsense?

The easier answer, if I'm pushed, is that on average, I probably write a couple of thousand words a day when I'm in full book flow.  This means that, given that I grant myself a day off every week to rest and recharge, a book can be finished (in the first draft, before rewrites, edits etc., of which there are many, I assure you) in about eight or nine weeks. 

If that sounds fast, remember that I've spent at least three months planning the book beforehand, so - in theory at least - I know exactly where I'm going with the plot, sub plots. locations and characters. Although that can usually change too!

The original question was part of a request for some advice about writing, and my simplest and best is this - just go ahead and try it.  Set yourself no targets or guidelines, feel no pressure, just have a go and, most importantly, enjoy it.  Take it from me, it's enormously rewarding, come what may of your efforts.

If you've got a question you want to ask, please go ahead and I'll do my best to answer it.  You can get in touch via the contacts page - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

I was at the wonderful St John in the Wilderness Church, talking about the tvdetective books, and had a very fine time.  It's a beatiful building, set in magnificent grounds, and with a vibrant congregation - it was a pleasure to be there and help to keep the church in such great shape.

If ever you're passing, I'd thorougly recommend a visit.

Also!  I was faced with one of the more unusual questions ever asked at an event - whether I was musical, as, apparently, I have piano fingers!  No is the honest answer, I've always loved music and at college did entertain a notion of becoming a pop star, but was only stopped by a lack of any discernable talent.

I find it hard enough writing books...

Reports from around the country tell me that national Crime Fiction Week has been a success, so thanks to everyone who took part.  I suspect, given the feedback, we'll have another one next year, and hopefully with even more events.

Finally, more news of another event for next month.  It's a crime writing workshop, to be held in Exeter on July 15th, in aid of Oxfam, as part of their Bookfest.  I'll pop the details on the News and Events page, if you're interested in coming along - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

So, sorry, but you'll have to catch one of my little ramblings some day.  Suffice to say, the tale of the otter is a testament to the ridiculous things that can happen to a person ill-advised enough to take up a career in the media, and particularly so in television!

A couple of other matters - Crime Fiction Week appears to be going well, with lots of events bubbling away.  I'd like to thank the kind people of Ottery St Mary for looking after me so well last night, I very much enjoyed my visit, thank you.

Tonight, I'm doing an event in Tavistock, if you're interested in coming along, there are more details on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html  And yes, I suspect the otter will feature.

And lastly for this post, plans are afoot for a crime writing workshop in Exeter as part of the Oxfam Bookfest, next month.  I often get asked for advice about how to write a novel (and equally often wonder if I'm actually qualified to answer), but if you're interested, I'll give you more details as the idea comes together.

I'm doing a few, all in Devon, as it happens.  And please - nobody dare to suggest this is entirely deliberate so I can still be close to home to watch the World Cup!

All the events are at places I haven't yet visited, so I'm looking forward to meeting some new people.  I've just written the outline of one of the talks.  There are a few anecdotes I often tell, and I've been giving some a rest of late, so I don't get bored with them.  The effect of this has been that, on several occasions, someone has put up a hand and said - you didn't tell the otter.

The thing has become infamous!

For some of you, the otter in question will mean nothing, and, if so, I can't explain here, the story goes on for far too long.  Suffice to say it is one of the daftest things that has ever happened to me in a career which has been full of them.  But if you want to know more, the answer is - come along to one of the events!

There's a list on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Hope to see you - and tell you more about the infamous otter! - at one of the events.

I had a great time.  I thought the festival very well organised and a brilliant idea - I wish you all success with it in future, you very much deserve it.

Secondly, a confession - on which subject, isn't it odd how this blog appears to have become my little equivalent of the confession booth?!

It's true, I'm a big football fan, and I'm now getting caught up in the World Cup excitement.  It all kicks off tomorrow, with England's first match on Sat, and my friends and I are already engaged in a heated debate about where to watch the game.  It's the usual comfort of someone's house versus the atmosphere of the pub type debate. 

Interestingly, it's about the most animated we've grown about anything in the last few months.  Big decisions require careful thought and getting right!

World Cups always make me nostalgic.  My favourite tournament was Italia 1990 - I'd just finished the finals of my degree, the weather was great, and it was a clear run of watching games, with little else to worry about.  And we made it to the semis. Fond memories!

Anyhow, good luck to England over the coming weeks.  As ever, I journey in hope, although prepared for disappointment. Let's hope that hope triumphs this time...

Finally, next week is national Crime Fiction Week.  I'm doing a few events.  If you're interested in coming along to one, there are details on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Happy Anniversary to me!

A quick confession here - I took a fair bit of persuading to start blogging.  I wondered if I'd ever have anything much of interest to say, and then of course there's the fear of entering this rather scary modern world of the internet.  It felt like something young people do!

However, I'm glad I did.

The website stats say - to my surprise - that the blog is the most visited page.  It strikes me it's a very good way of having an ongoing conversation with people who are kind enough to be interested in the tvdetective books, not to mention letting you know how the writing is going, and what gigs I'm doing.  I also enjoy writing these little diary pieces.

So, a big thank you for taking an interest, and I hope you continue to do so. I shall blog on, as it were!

Don't forget, if there's a question you'd like to ask, about the books, the writing, or just get in touch with a comment, you can do so via the contact page - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

A couple more things to mention.  You'll be glad to hear, after that last post, that the writer's block has eased, and wow!  It's quite some relief.  I enjoy writing so much, it's painful when I struggle.  I'm back on track with the next book, and delighted about it.

Finally, I'm off to the Charles Causley Festival in Launceston today, and looking forward to it.  He was a wonderful poet, one of my favourites, and it's a great privilege to be invited.

It's a strange thing, because the work on the new book was going along swimmingly.  All was set fair and I was enjoying myself.  Then, I wake up one morning, to find I can hardly write a word.  And when I do, it's nonsense. 

It's frustrating, and the more annoyed you get, the harder it becomes to write anything at all. So, I've learned the lesson of walking away, however difficult it may be.  In fact, I ran away and went for a jog around the river, a common source of inspiration to me.

That seemed to help and I've been writing again, albeit rather stutteringly.  Someone once told me that you don't pick the people you love, they pick you.  I'm wondering if it's the same with writing.  You might think you're in command of your characters and book, and you can tell them what's going to happen - but, it appears, only when they're ready to let you.  Strange, eh?

Anyway, some better news - the sun is out, June is here, and I'm looking forward to the Charles Causley Festival on Saturday.  If you're about the area, do come along, you'd be very welcome.  There are more details on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

First of all a whinge at the elements and the irony of fate.  How come the weather's been great for most of the week, then it gets to the Bank Holiday and it's raining?  How unfair is that?

Still, it's made me resolve to get some writing done.  I'm just going through the plot, characters and outline for the book for next year, and it's shaping up nicely.  This is one of my favourite phases of writing, playing with ideas. 

The Balance of Guilt is still on course to come out in September.  The publishers are currently going through it, to suggest any amendments, check for inconsistencies, and all the usual grammatical errors I tend to litter first drafts with.  Regarding the consistency issue, it can be very important - did I mention I once killed a character twice?!

Several more questions have come in by email, some in response to my last post about which of the tvdetective books is my favourite.  It seems to have amused you!  I'll get round to answering them over the next few weeks when I post more blogs.  Don't forget, if you have a question, you can get in touch via the contact page of the site - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

Finally, it's the Charles Causley festival in Launceston next week, and I'll be there.  Do come along if you fancy it, it should be fun.  There are more details on the events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

In the meantime, wishing you a fine Bank Hols weekend.  I'm off to see The Wurzels on Sunday and can't wait.   They're great, pure westcountry entertainment!

Which of your books is your favourite?

Like most fine questions, it's a tough one to answer.  So I'll say this.

After much thought, I've come to the conclusion that telling you which of the tvdetective series is my fave would be akin to a parent revealing which of their kids they liked the most.  It just can't be done, it wouldn't be fair, all that kind of thing.

I know my books are supposed to be inanimate and lacking in consciousness, but I just can't stop myself worrying about how the others would feel if they thought I didn't love them as much.

Does that make sense, and is it a passable answer, or is it more Hall nonsense?!  As we're talking questions, I'll leave you for now with that one...

I've always been a huge fan.  At risk of boring you, it goes back to my schooldays and O level English.  We were given Causley to study. 

Now, as a 14 year old, in full teenager cool/strop mode, I suspect you can imagine what I thought of that. But I tried reading some of the poems and was immediately hooked.  I love his way with words, his gentless and delight in the countryside, but also his reflections on his life in the navy, with all that could mean.

To this day, Causley remains one of my favourite poets.   I suspect his influence may also have helped attract me to Devon and Cornwall, so I have much to thank him for.

Anyway, I shall be doing a talk at the festival in a couple of weeks time (June 5th), and it will be a great honour.  There are details on the News page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

There's a whole programme of events for the festival - I'd thoroughly recommend trying one and getting a sense of what a wonderful poet - and man - Causley was.

I love the show for so many reasons.  At its heart, it's a great tribute to the south west's wonderful farmers, a stoic bunch whose important work isn't always appreciated.  All our fine food and drink producers are there too, and so many other companies and organisations - it's a showcase of all that's best about Devon.  And there's lots of it.

It's also a great place to pick up ideas for new characters, plots and quirks for the TV Detective books.  I've got some thoughts about future stories having countryside elements, so if you see me wandering around, looking thoughtful, that might be the reason.

Or it might just be sampling too much of the fine fare on offer!

Here's hoping for the blessing of good weather, and a great 2010 show.

It was also heartening to hear how many people had already tried one of the books and enjoyed them.

Another amusement was the number of chaps I met, walking fast around the store with one eye on their watches, trying to get the shopping done in time to get home for the FA cup final! What predictable creatures we men can be.

One more thing to mention here - I've just checked my diary and been reminded that national Crime Fiction Week is in a month's time.  I'm doing a few events, details are on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Do come along to one, if I'm at a venue near you.  It'd be a pleasure to see you.

I'll be in Waterstone's in Taunton on Saturday (15th May) at 12.30 talking about the series, and scribbling my often illegible scrawl on any that you'd like autographed.

It's the first time I've done a signing at the store, so I'm looking forward to it.  Hope to see you there. 

There are more details on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

How do I write the first line of a book?

It's one of those lovely questions which sounds simple, but is in fact very tricky. 

I'm a sucker for first lines.  They're so important and can be so memorable.  Whether it's the best of times or the worst of times, bright cold days on which the clocks strike thirteen, or just an invitation to call me Ishmael, they can stick in the mind always and lure you into a book.

So, to answer the question - I spend lots of time on first lines, but don't get bogged down by them.  I write one which feels appropriate, but then move on and try to write the rest of the book.  However, as I'm going along, and particularly when I review how the novel is going, I'll often think about the first line and whether it can be improved.  It almost always can.

I'll commonly think about it at other times too, like when I'm having a run or driving.  At a rough estimate, I'd say my first lines usually change around ten times in the course of drafting a book. 

If you've got a question, you're very welcome to ask and I'll try to answer it - you can get in touch via the contacts page of the site - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

The ideas for the next book are still shaping up well, so I shall do some more work on them today.  This is one of my favourite times in the writing process, just letting the imagination run and seeing what it comes up with. 

I estimate probably about three quarters of the ideas I have end up being discarded as not working, or being too limited, or perhaps just plain daft to make a book, or even a part of it.  But I enjoy working through them anyway.

And quite often in the comfort of a good pub - purely for research purposes, naturally.  Being able to look around and pick bits of character from people...

One more thing to mention here, and it's a big thank you - to all the people who've read The TV Detective, got in touch with their comments and posted reviews.  I appreciate the feedback and am glad that almost all of you seem to have been reasonably entertained by my latest scribblings.

If you want to see some of the comments, you can do so via the books page - www.thetvdetective.com/books.html

Wishing you a fine and enjoyable bank holiday...

Well, firstly I'm back from hols - I had a great time, fab weather etc.  Managed to do some work on the next book while away too, (that's the one for next year, 2011) and I think I've got a decent looking plot with some strong characters. 

In fact, I got so into the idea, and it's made such progress, that I'm starting to write some of it now.  So, that's where the apology comes in - sorry if I'm not in touch as regularly for the next few weeks, but I suspect much of my time will be taken up in writing, while the muse is here.  I will however keep you updated with any important news - promise.

Before I sign off, I must also say a big thank you to everyone who came to my talk at the Eype Literary Festival last week.  What a great place, and what a pleasure to meet you all.

And finally, I know you're going to ask, and yes, I do have a title in mind for the new book, but no, I won't be saying what it is just yet!

I'm off on a week's hols now, so excuse me if I'm out of touch for a while.  I'm visiting family, but also going to a wedding next weekend, so probably won't be back with you until after then.

A couple of bits of news in the meantime - Crime Fiction week (14th - 20th June) is filling up nicely with events.  I'm doing three, in Exmouth, Tavistock and Ottery St Mary.  There are more details on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html  

But if you're interested in staging an event, there's still some room left in the week, so feel free to get in touch.  You can do so via the contact page - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

Got to get packing now, but don't forget if you're in west Dorset next week, I'm doing a talk on Tues night (20th April) as part of the Eype Literary Festival.  Hope to see you there.

Next week (Tues, 20th April), I'll be at the Eype Literary Festival, presenting a talk about the tvdetective books, and signing copies.

I'm very much looking forward to the visit.  I've always loved Dorset, ever since I was first posted there as a trainee journalist, many years ago. 

So, it'll be a pleasure to come back, particularly if this fine weather persists and allows for taking in some of the fabulous Jurassic coast.  For more details of the event, see the News page of the site - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Hope to see you next week.

I won't tell you her name, but it went along the lines of - is it actually possible to solve the riddle from the clues in the book?

I've answered the email, but wanted to mention it on the blog because it's a point of great importance to me.  The answer is a resounding YES!

I don't want to sound like a politician, but I do promise you this.  In each and every one of my books, there will always be the clues which enable you to solve whatever crime or riddle I happen to drop in.  There'll be plenty of chaff and red herrings too, to distract you, but the important bits will be there.

It's important to me because far too often I've been really into a book, am happily reading away, then get to the denouement, and the killer is someone who appears for a couple of lines, way back, then entirely disappears again.  That's cheating!  So - I won't be doing that to you.  Call it value for money, or professional pride, or whatever, but the clues will be there.

If you want to get in touch with a question about the tvdetective series, you can do so via the contacts page of the site - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html  and I'll do my best to answer.

Look forward to hearing from you.

I had most of the time off, but incorporated it with doing some book bits.  I'm working up ideas for the new tvdetective novel for next year, and decided to spend time on the characters.

I particularly like this part, as it involves a favoured passtime of mine - people watching.  Whenever I go out, I always take a piece of paper and pen and note down little ideas.  They can be a mannerism, a quirk of appearance or conversation, or just about any detail that can help bring a character to life.

My poor friends have just about got used to it by now, but still have the odd qualm when I jot down a note, wondering what part of themselves they're going to see in a book!

Apart from the scribblings, I've also finished the audio recordings of The TV Detective. It'll now go through the editing process - which can take a while, given the number of fluffs I make - and then be released later in the year.  I'll keep you posted.

I've signed up for two (so far!), in Tavistock and Exmouth.  There are details on the events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

But I also wanted to mention, if you'd like to host or hold an event as part of the week (14th - 20th June) do get in touch via the contact page - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html  and I'll see what I can do to help.

Don't forget too the beautiful Eype Literary Festival, where I'm appearing on the evening of 20th April.  It's my old stomping ground, just up the road from Bridport where I lived when first I became a TV reporter.  Ah, the tingle of memories of yesterday... it'll be a great pleasure to return to such a wonderful place.

It's going to be a working one, but enjoyably so, or at least that's what I hope.  I'm happy to report the first stirrings of an idea for a new book are agitating in my mind.  I won't go into too much detail, as sometimes - often even! - these thoughts of mine come to nowt, but I'm feeling confident there's enough to make a decent novel.

A couple of quick details - it'll be another in the tvdetective series, to follow sequentially from The Balance of Guilt in the characters lives.  And I'm thinking the central theme will be a kidnapping. 

As you may know, I try to do something different in each book, and we haven't had any abductions yet, so perhaps it's about time.  I'm just working on the structure, twists and turns, new characters needed, and will keep you up to date with how it goes. Assuming it does!

That's the thing about this publishing lark - it works to such long time scales, compared with my day job.  If this book does come to be the next one, it's being prepared 18 months ahead!  And usually, I struggle to plan more than a few days ahead.

One final quick word - thanks to all the people who came along to the signing in Waterstone's in Newton Abbot on Sat.  It was good to meet you, and I hope you enjoy the books you kindly bought.

I'm at the Waterstone's in Newton Abbot on Saturday (27th March), from 12.30 for a couple of hours, to sign copies of the tvdetective series.  They'll have the full range of books, from The TV Detective to The Death Pictures, Evil Valley and The Judgement Book. 

I've also got some bookmarks to give away.

There are more details on the events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Do come along, have a chat, and pick up a copy of one of the books - or preferably all!

One such has just come in.  It's - where do I get my characters from, and are any based on real people?

It says in my book of how to be an author that mystery sells, so I shouldn't give too much away.  But I can tell you that only one character in the series is based entirely on a single "person" - and you'll see why the use of quotes there in a minute.

Most characters are what I think of as composites, built up from several different quirks of a range of people's mannerisms, behaviour, or appearance.  So yes, I do borrow a little from real life, but only usually a tad per person, and always combined with plenty of imagination.

But - back to that real "person".  Here, I'm talking about Rutherford.  He's based on the dog I grew up with, a wonderfully protective and loyal Alsatian called Sam.  He was my companion through the early years of childhood, and to this day I remember the weeks of tears I shed when he died.

Rutherford is my way of bringing him back, as best I can. 

Firstly, The Balance of Guilt is now complete in its draft form and has gone to the publishers for their comments.  This is always a nervy moment, as I await their views.  I like it, but then, I would, wouldn't I?!  It's still due for publication in September and there's already talk of some events to mark its arrival.  I'll keep you posted.

Regular readers will know that this author isn't the best when it comes to new technology, but I must tell you about this, as it's a first.  I am now available as an "app" for the iphone.  The first couple of chapters of The TV Detective, along with an interview with yours truly, is on line as a free taster.  If you want to try it, go to  itunes.apple.com/gb/app/the-tv-detective-lite/id362756920

I must also mention - a big thank you to the kind people of Yeovil who came along to my Crime Cafe talk last night.  You made me feel very welcome and I had a fine evening. 

Finally, a word about a book signing in Newton Abbot next weekend (Sat 27th March).  For more details, have a look at the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

It was a pleasure to be asked to open it.  As I mentioned in my little speech, I've lost two close family members in the last few years, both of whom were wonderfully cared for by the hospice in their final days.  I feel I owe quite a debt, so for me, yesterday was at least a small way of repaying some of that.

I wish the shop all the best, and Hospiscare another 30 years and much more of great work in the community. 

I was a little nervous about the book - more so even than usual! - it being a retrospective, but you seem to have enjoyed the story of how the boys met, which I'm delighted to hear.

I've been asked to narrate an audio version too, which I'm about to start work on.  I do enjoy doing the recordings, but it is remarkably tiring.  You wouldn't think just reading aloud could require so much concentration and effort.  And I still make plenty of fluffs, which happily in these days of digital editing the engineers can take straight out.

Not quite sure when it'll be released, it depends on how the readings go, but I'll let you know.  And if you are interested in audio books, I'm told the versions of Death Pictures, Evil Valley and The Judgement Book are all coming along nicely and should also be available soon. When they are, I'll put the details on the news page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

And amidst all that, the first draft of The Balance of Guilt is almost complete, so the book looks on course for publication in September - hopefully!

I've mentioned this before, but I think it's worth saying again, as it's such a welcome feeling.  It's a definite sign that spring is here, the world awakening as people actually start to make plans to venture out from the warm safety of their houses of an evening again.

So then, before I started waxing on, those dates.  Next week, on Tues (March 16th) at 10am, I'm opening the new Hospiscare shop on South Street in Exeter.  It's a wonderful cause, which I'm delighted to support.

The following Thursday (March 18th), in the evening at the Octagon in Yeovil, I'm at the Crime Cafe, talking about the tvdetective books.  

And some more advance notice for you - at 6.45 on the evening of Tues, April 20th, I'm at the Eype Literary Festival in my old stomping ground of Dorset.  It's a new festival, which I'm proud to be invited to.

I'll put all the details on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Hope to see you at some, any or all of the events, you'd be very welcome

To celebrate two years of the my tvdetective books, my kind publishers have decided to make the first one, The TV Detective, available free as an ebook. 

It's a limited offer, so if you want a copy, grab one now.  Just go to the Accent Press website - www.accentpress.co.uk/  and click on the banner a little way down from the top.  There are no strings to this, it's the whole book, absolutely free.

Just as a small quid pro quo, if you do have a read, please feel free to get in touch with me to tell me what you think.  You can do so via the contact page of my site - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

Feel free to pass the news onto friends and family, so they can download a copy too. 

Happy reading, and hope you enjoy it.

On this occasion however, please excuse me.  I've just been ill for four days and...

I hate being ill!  I loathe and detest and abhor and dislike and can't bear or abide or in any way whatsoever tolerate or even manage to be relatively calm and accepting of being ill.

It's such a foul feeling, each passing moment being unpleasant.  It's scarcely what life's for, in my view.

And it's such a waste of valuable, precious time, when all you can do is lie on your back and groan.  I tried thinking of ideas for new plots to distract myself, but my poor mind wasn't even up to that.

And I suppose, in the scheme of things, I only had a relatively mild illness too - tum problems with accompanying fever. 

So, as you can see, I don't care for being ill.  Please excuse the rant, but it felt cathartic!  And sorry for being out of touch for a few days, but now you know why.

So then, back to more important matters.  I'm feeling better and back to the writing.  The first draft of The Balance of Guilt requires only a few more days work, so I'm getting on with that.  And hopefully, at the weekend, I'll start narrating The TV Detective as an audio book.

And what a joy it is to be able to do all that, feeling human again!  Wishing you a fine - and healthy! - weekend.

On Tues, 16th March, at 10am, I've been asked to open the new Hospiscare shop on South Street in Exeter.  It'll specialise in books, art and music and I'm delighted to help.

Hospices do some wonderful work - I've seen that at first hand, with members of my own family - so please do pop in.  If you can't make the launch, then bear in mind the shop's there if and when you're shopping in Exeter.  It's a fine cause.

Looking further ahead, on Sunday, August 1st, there's the Exeter Bookfair, in Topsham, which I'll also be opening and will too have a stall for some of the tvdetective books.

I hope you can make one, or perhaps even both, of the events.  I'm proud to support them.

I'll keep you updated on those two, and all other events on the news page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

It feels to me like people are starting to sense the end of the winter, and time to reactivate a few social events after the long cold days of late - perhaps even humans go through a form of hibernation?!  And who'd blame us, given the weather of the past three months?

As the events come in, I'll pop them on the news page www.thetvdetective.com/news.html so keep an eye out there.

A couple of other bits to mention.  The first draft of the new tvdetective book, The Balance of Guilt, is almost done and ready to go to the publishers, for their thoughts on what edits may be required.  Usually quite a few, ruefully, but that's the publishing process.

I've also been asked to record The TV Detective as an audio book, which means more hours in a studio, but it is also flattering - at least it should mean the others I recorded were reasonably acceptable!

The new library looks superb - a wonderful use of the space and so light.  It's such a transformation compared to how it was.  It'll make a great focal point for the city - I hope to be invited back to see you all again.

Now, onto Facebook.  As those of you who amuse yourselves with my scribblings will know, I'm doing my best to keep up with these new ways of communicating.  It does sometimes feel like watching a very fast train accelerating off into the distance and doing one's pathetic bit to catch up, but I'm trying...

As part of that, I'm told a Facebook group has been set up about my writing.  If you're into these things, and fancy joining, by all means have a look.  I've joined, but as I said on the site - as I write the books, I suppose I should!

The library has had a big revamp, and is holding a series of events to celebrate.  Friday is Crime Day, and I'll be there to talk about the tvdetective books.  There are more details on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

I've got a few things to tell you about the new book, The TV Detective, plus plans for the next novel, The Balance of Guilt.  And yes, if you're interested, no doubt I'll pop in a few anecdotes from my strange life too. 

There should be copies of the books available too, which I'll be very happy to sign for you.

I'm looking forward to seeing the new library.  It's always a pleasure to come down to Cornwall, so if you're about, please do pop in, I'd be delighted to see you.

It's great to be asked to narrate my own books - I just know that if an actor had done it, I'd have taken issue with just about every different voice and inflexion he or she used for the characters.  Not that I'm precious about the TV Detective series or anything, but they're my friends; mine, mine, mine!

So, it's a compliment to do the recordings myself, but it sure is odd to hear your own voice coming at you, telling you the story of an apparently pointless murder of a dying artist.  I'm still not sure what to make of it.

You'd think I'd be used to hearing myself on the radio or TV by now, so it wouldn't feel strange, but that's not the case.  I think it's probably because the books are so very personal.

Anyway, if you fancy trying them, they're on the Apple Store to download.  If you do give them a try, let me know what you think via the contact page - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html - but please be kind!

No, before you ask, I'm not saying how old I am!  But thanks to the kind people who got in touch to wish me a good day.

Back to the writing, and there are a few things to mention. The TV Detective is now well and truly published, the review copies have gone out to various papers, websites and magazines, and that means I get nervous, waiting for the verdicts to start coming back. 

It is a shaky period, awaiting the first reviews, wondering what people will make of the book.  Here's hoping you enjoy it!

Work on the new novel - The Balance of Guilt - is also going well.  I've completed a first draft, and am now going through that to refine it, check it's all consistent and plausible, that kind of thing.  It's due with the publishers by the end of the month, for their thoughts, then we'll go through the re-editing, and then more edits, and then the final edits etc., until hopefully a passable novel emerges. 

I'm not saying too much about the plot at this stage, but it'll be terrorism based, and looks like being the most dangerous adventure Dan and Adam have so far faced.

One last mention - the Crime Day at Truro Library a week on Friday (Feb19th).  It's to mark the renovation of the library, and I'll be there to talk about the new book.  If you fancy coming along, it'd be great to see you.  There are more details on the news page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

A mixture of ways is the answer.  Some just come to me, as did the concept for Death Pictures - just that one thought for how a code might work was enough to base a book on.  Evil Valley came from seeing the actual place - albeit under its true guise of Evil Coombe - on a map of Dartmoor.

Others, like The Judgement Book, come from a mix of my weird imagination, and things I see or hear - I think Judgement Book started to form after I read a newspaper article about blackmail.

So, I just read papers, listen to conversations, keep thinking, and sometimes an idea will sparkle. 

The idea for The TV Detective came from the weather, but more than that I won't say, to make sure I don't spoil it for you!

The book is currently at the printers - sorry for the small delay - but should be out in the next few days.  The details are up on the site, if you want to read more - www.thetvdetective.com/books.html

The reason I've headlined the blog, This Childish Author, is that's exactly how I'm feeling.  Like a kid at Xmas time!

I've planned, then written the book, done the re-writes (about half a dozen or so now), gone through all the details of the edits, approved the cover and blurb, and now it's finally time to see the finished product.

It's the moment at which all the work feels worthwhile.  When I finally get to hold the completed book in my hand.

When my sample copies arrive, I'm not ashamed to confess my little hands shake, and I tear away at the cardboard of the wrapping like a man demented.  All say - aaaahhh!

From what I can tell, the book's come together well.  But I'll leave you to decide on that, as you start to read it.  It should be available within the next week or so.  There'll be a link on the site when it is released.  See the books page - www.thetvdetective.com/books.html

One more piece of news on The TV Detective - as the other audio books in the series are ticking along nicely, I've been asked to record a version of this one too.  I'll be starting work on it in the next few weeks.

Apologies, but the book is a little behind schedule.  That was due to the fortnight of freezing weather at the beginning of the month, which left me very little time to work on it, and my poor publishers were also snowbound and struggling.

However, all is now proceeding smoothly - or as smoothly as does ever anything when I'm part of it, anyway - so The TV Detective should be out early in Feb. 

I've had quite a few questions raised about how Dan and Adam met and began working together, along with others about the genesis of the series.  I hope the book will answer all those, and manage to entertain you a little too.

So, now it's onto the next book in the tvdetective series (in terms of the lives of the characters) and I'm pleased to report that's all well underway.  The Balance of Guilt, as it will probably be called, is due out in September, and will be the story of a dreadful terrorist atrocity, the most dangerous case that Dan and Adam have yet faced.

Finally, for this dispatch, I was reading today that Monday is the most depressing day of the year - cold, dark, the despair of broken New Year resolutions, no money etc. 

That's all entirely understandable.  But I'm trying to be cheery and am looking at it another way.  The grim month of January is almost done, and the nights are definitely getting a little lighter!

Yours, with an attempt at a smile, and wishing you a fine weekend and a not too miserable Monday to come...

As a child, I remember the simple delight of exploring a library to find a new book, and the excitement of taking it home to begin reading. 

As I've moved from reader to writer, I've come to appreciate libraries even more.  They're so much more than just a place to find a book, look something up, or search the internet.  For many, they're a lifeline, a place to go to meet people and have a chat, and a focus of the local community.

They've also been wonderful in supporting me in my fledgling writing career, for which I'm very grateful.

If you're asking yourself what this little ramble is about - and I suspect that's a common question with my blogs - the answer is this.

I've just got the figures back from the library service about the number of times my books have been borrowed, and I'm taken aback.  Thousands of you are reading the things!

This has come as a most pleasant surprise.  Writing can be a lonely business.  You're never quite sure who's reading your scribblings, if anyone, so it's great to know that all the work isn't being wasted.

Thank you to everyone who's given the tvdetective series a try, whether it be The Death Pictures, Evil Valley or The Judgement Book.

I often do talks in libraries, so if you're interested, keep an eye on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html  and do come along to one.  I'd love to see you.

It's been an extraordinary month.  Last Friday, I was working in a temperature of minus 15.  Minus 15!  In Devon!  Who'd have thought that?  It was so cold the camera froze, and I've never known that before.

Not to mention the reporter...

And then there were the poor swans on the River Exe, frozen into the ice - that was such a sad sight - but happily they were all freed with no ill effects.  And so many other remarkable and memorable sights too.

And through all this, there's been wonderful human kindness and resilience.  From people helping each other out while they've been trapped in the snow, others coming to feed the swans and ducks and geese on the Exe, to make sure they're ok, and also those who have taken pity on me.

I don't think I've ever been offered so much tea and shelter before.  And my favourite of all - a big thank you to all the people who got in touch offering to get me a hat to help keep out the cold!

I can now confess I do own one, but the old vanity issue precludes me from wearing it on camera.  Thanks so much though for your thoughts and kindness.

The cold and consequent busyness has rather limited any chance to work on the books, apart from 3 things I'll share with you. 

First, thanks to everyone who's got in touch with praise for The Judgement Book - I do appreciate it very much.  Secondly, I can feel a tvdetective story coming on when Dan and Adam have to investigate some crime set in a big freeze. I feel I know plenty about icy weather now!  And finally, the second round of edits on The TV Detective are underway, and the book should be out roughly on time at the start of February. 

I'm off out for a run now - wearing my hat, naturally... 

It feels like the world is hibernating to me.  The roads, towns and villages have been so quiet, the countryside too, covered in its spread of white. 

It's all been very busy on the news front, which hasn't left much time for writing.  But over the weekend, I've finished the first batch of edits for The TV Detective - one down, one to go! - which should mean we're still on course for the book coming out early next month.

As I write, the snow is falling again in Exeter.  It's been a bizarre few days, and more to come, according to the forecasters. When will it end?

One word of thanks - to all the kind people who've made us welcome, wherever we go, and have provided cups of tea to keep us warm.  I can hardly communicate just how much it's appreciated - thank you!

Firstly, that the new book, The TV Detective satisfactorily answers the questions which have been put to me, about how Dan and Adam met and began working together, and also provides you with some amusement and entertainment in the process.  The edits are just about done and so all looks on track for it to be published in February.

Secondly, that the other next new book of the year in the tvdetective series, The Balance of Guilt, comes together smoothly.  It's now written in outline form and so I can tell you - with reasonable certainty! -  that it's going to be about a terrorist attack, and the first to take the boys outside of Plymouth.  It's due out in September.

Aside from that, my other new year hopes are for the move into ebooks to go well for the series - it'll be interesting to see how ebooks take off this year - and that people enjoy the narrations I've recorded. 

Oh, and a bit warmer weather would be nice too - it's freezing in Exeter this morning!

Wishing you all a fine year...

Apart from a few very pleasant days off, it's also given me a chance to work on the edits of The TV Detective, and I'm enjoying it. 

It's a strange experience, because often, the suggested changes come back from the publishers a good while after you've written the original book, so it's almost like discovering the story anew.  It's been interesting to see how the relationship between Dan and Adam develops, and to follow their first escapades together.

It feels so long ago now that I began sketching out how the pair met, but in fact it's only just a little over five years. So much has happened in that time! 

I hope you'll enjoy the book too. It should help to answer a lot of the questions readers have been asking about how the tvdetective series began.  I think I can promise you the odd surprise or two as well.

Publication date is Feb 1st - provided I keep getting on with these edits!

It's Xmas Eve and I've actually done all the required shopping, I've got a few days off to look forward to, and so I'm feeling relaxed and contented.

The time off has also given me space to come up with a few ideas for new books in the series.  I'll spend some time working on the ideas over the hols and see which shape up into adventures for Dan and Adam. 

In the meantime, wishing you a great Xmas time. Cheers!

I meant what I said about getting in touch to give me feedback about the books - it does help me to learn what readers like and don't like - so please do. 

You can send me your thoughts via the contacts page - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

But most of all, I hope you enjoy reading the books over Xmas!

I'll be in the Waterstone's in the High Street from 6.30, signing copies of The Judgement Book, and the other tvdetective novels, The Death Pictures and Evil Valley too.  I'll be very happy to dedicate books to friends, family and loved ones. 

There are details of the signing on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

After that, I must confess I shall be scuttling off to do some Xmas shopping of my own.  Funny how fast it looms up... and how unprepared I always seem to be...

It was heartening to find out how many people had already read either The Death Pictures, or Evil Valley, and now wanted The Judgement Book.  The feedback I get from readers is an invaluable part of the writing process.  It helps no end to find out what you like and don't like, so I can try to improve future books.

A lot of rot is talked about writing - the mystery of creativity, structure and pace, the claim that some are born authors and don't have to try, all that stuff - but I have to say, I see it as a career like many others.  You're not a master carpenter, or sculptor when you start off, you get better by learning.  It's just the same with writing.

So, the feedback helps, and thanks then to all who stopped in for a chat to give me some.  I hope you enjoy the books you bought.  Please do get in touch to let me know what you thought when you've finished them.  You can do so via the contacts page - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html

This is one of my favourite parts of the writing process.  It's fairly simple and goes like this - sit down with pad of paper and pen and think of bizarre, strange, quirky, cryptic, original, odd, twisted, insane, double crossing and entertaining plots, combined with a few similarly interesting characters to go in them.

Occasionally, I have to admit, the thinking is assisted by sitting in a pub with a couple of beers.  For inspirational purposes only, naturally.

So, if you see me in a bar, apparently staring into space and lost in the world of dreams, fear not.  It's normal for subject.  Or this subject, at least.

What I particularly like about the ideas phase is that in its initial stages they tend to be really whacky, before finally calming down to something approaching a feasible plot.  I've had a few odd ones over the last couple of days, including one based on ballroom dancing.  I think that was in part inspired by a dream I had when I was a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing.

And not terribly successfully, either.  A sense of rhythm has always been noticeably absent in my life.

Anyway, what this was all about was that I think the outlines of a new plot are emerging and I'm very much enjoying shaping them up.  Call it an Xmas present to myself! 

I've also managed to come up with a few other thoughts for more strands, plots or sub plots.  So, that was the point of this little ramble of a blog - there's plenty of life left in the tvdetective series yet!

Off to do some more "thinking" now. (Yes, you've rumbled me, it is Friday night so you know what that means).

Right, final point for the moment - don't forget I'm doing a couple of signings in bookshops in the run up to Xmas, so if you'd like a book dedicated to someone for a present, do come along.  There are details on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

I've also been asked to do another book signing, so if you'd like a distinctive Xmas present, dedicated to family, friend or loved one, do pop along for your personalised copy of one of the tvdetective books.

There are details of the signings on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

It's probably a tad too early to wish you a Merry Xmas, so instead I'll wish you a successful and relatively stress free run up to Xmas.  Good luck to us all!

It's called The TV Detective, and is the story of how Dan and Adam met and began working together.  It's a reworking of my first fumbling attempts at writing a book, which led to A Popular Murder.  But don't worry if you've read that - the new version is very different.

And better - or at least I hope so!

It's been a real pleasure to write.  There's something curiously entertaining about going right back to the start and meeting all the characters for the first time.  It's almost like time travelling - to a school reunion, being the age you were then, but knowing what you know now.

And I can hardly believe I just wrote that sentence.  Maybe it's because it's a Friday?!

Anyway, back to the point.  The new book's now with the editors.  Given a couple of read throughs and final amendments, most of which I can do when I get some time off over Xmas, all should be ready for publication at the start of February.

I popped into town yesterday to get a sandwich, and Xmas music was trickling - and in some cases blaring - from many a shop.

It appears Dec 1st is the chequered flag for the country to go into full Xmas mode. 

I have given myself an early Xmas present, or at least achievement.  After another long recording session at the weekend, the audio versions of the first three tvdetective books - The Death Pictures, Evil Valley and The Judgement Book - are finally finished.

I feel a tad odd about this.  I thought I'd be relieved - it has been a big chunk of work, and it's remarkable how tiring just talking to a microphone can be - but instead I'm feeling a sort of post-big project emptiness.  It's like a good friend who you've got used to having around has suddenly left your life. 

Even when I wasn't recording before, I was looking through the books to see what came next, what kind of tone and pace to put into the recordings, that sort of thing.  Now I'm just back to thinking about and sketching out possible ideas for new books in the series, and it's not quite so exciting.

Anyway, back to what I was talking about at the start of this blog - as there are now no excuses left, this weekend I'm going to get on with some Xmas shopping.  It's not something I greatly enjoy, or indeed am good at.  The last time I tried to make a start on it, a fortnight ago, I only managed to buy a couple of things for myself.

And lastly, on the subject of Xmas shopping, I've been asked to pop into bookstores to sign some copies of the tvdetective series for presents.  You can find details of the sessions on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

If you too are currently steeling yourself to brave the Xmas shopping time, may I wish us all the best of luck!

I'm delighted to have been able to help raise funds for such a fine cause and wish you all the best of luck in your continuing efforts to renovate the beautiful St Paul's church.

Just one thing - the questions I was asked last night were, without doubt, the oddest I've ever faced after a talk. Despite them haunting my dreams last night, and receiving more due consideration this morning...

No, I still have no idea why dead badgers only seem to be found at the side of the road and not in the middle.  No, I still don't know Dracula.  And to the lady who asked what the time was - it's currently 7.51 on Saturday morning.

Last night may well have provided more inspiration for another book than you realise...

I've not been well - nothing serious (although it felt like it, I can assure you), just an annoying winter cold thing.  Enough though to knock me out for a few days.  I'm still not a hundred per cent - when am I, you might say?! - but I'm feeling much better now, happily.

So, I'm back with news of an event tomorrow night (Fri, 27th Nov) in Barnstaple, north Devon.  I've been invited to give an after dinner speech at a fund raiser to help restore the roof at St Paul's church in Landkey.  It's a beautiful church and a fine cause, which I'm proud to support.

The event is at the Park Hotel, and starts at 7, so if you're in the area and at a loose end, do come along.  I believe there are tickets still available.

I love after dinner speeches, because the audience are always mellow after a few drinks, and I can trot out some of my odder anecdotes.  I think I can promise an entertaining time!

Off now for some more Vitamin C....

An interesting one has just come through - how well do I think I know my characters?

The answer is very well indeed.  I could tell you what Dan and Adam, for example, would think or do in any given situation.  They've become as real and familiar as old friends to me.

For example, here's an odd thing - if I'm sent to cover a story, I'll often have a quiet chat with Dan on the way about how best to report it.  Likewise, when I'm dealing with a crime, I'm quite likely to have a discussion with Adam about who might have committed it, and why.

And here's something even odder.  It's occasionally the case in the books that one of the characters will do something that surprises me.  I won't have planned for it, but they'll go off and decide to act in a way I don't expect anyway. 

I find Adam is the most common culprit for this.  He can be strangely unpredictable.

When it first happened, I worried about it.  How can my characters possibly do something I don't expect?  I'm supposed to be in charge here, after all!

Then I learnt to relax about it, and this is the reason.  I now feel the characters live for me, and that has to be right.  Because if they don't live for me, if I don't really believe in them, they'll never live for you.

Told you it was a good question!  I just hope that was a reasonable - and not too insane - answer.

If anyone else has a question about the tvdetective books, you're very welcome to submit it.  Go to the contacts page of the site - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html - and I'll do my best to answer.

Going back many a year now, I did my journalism diploma in Cardiff.  It was that which I suppose started me on the track to becoming a crime reporter and then a crime writer, so I'm very grateful.

Since I first visited the city, I've always loved it.  Such a vibrant and happening place, and very friendly with it.  There's some wonderful countryside around Cardiff too.  Yes, I'm looking forward to returning.

The reason for my visit is that tomorrow (Saturday), I'm in Abergavenny, at the Criminal Intent event, a crime writing festival for the valleys.  I'll be talking about all the tvdetective books, probably reading a little of The Judgement Book, and also letting you know about future books and projects.  There are more details on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

If you're in the area, and fancy an entertaining day, I hope to see you there.

After a couple of mammoth recording sessions, I'm now more than half way through Evil Valley.  The Death Pictures is done, which only leaves The Judgement Book. I'm hoping the set will be complete by the end of November and ready for Xmas.

I've learnt a lesson doing the books - that what might seem for me like an ideal way of spending a day, talking the whole time, and not just that, but words I've written too, isn't quite so straightforward.  It's more like hard work, in fact.  I get very dry and quite tired doing it, but I am enjoying it nonetheless.

It was a big decision, saying I'd do the narration myself.  But I'm so close to my characters, and so fond of them, that I'm not sure I'd be able to trust an actor to get them right, just the way I imagine them.

For those who are interested in what I've discovered, this is the way the maths works out.  Each page takes about 2 mins to read on a rough average.  The books tend to be about 340 pages each.  That should equate to around 12 hours reading time.

But! There are always going to be fluffs - more than a few, if truth be told - and some pages are more full of text and denser to read than others, particularly the ones with lots of description.  That makes it about 15 hours reading time per book. by my estimate.

So, a fair bit of work, but a great opportunity to bring the tvdetective series to a wider audience - particularly those who have difficulties with their sight - and so one I'm relishing.

A quick confession - I have tried to do the voices of a few of the characters as I imagine them. As to how that's come out, I'm making no further comment!

I hope you get the chance to listen to one - or more! - of the books, and enjoy them too.  I have to say, I find the thought of me reading to someone in their favourite chair, or driving, or even lying back in bed, quite surreal...

Well, the interview has been posted on You Tube, so if you want to have a look, here's the link - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=us5VVPyFtA8

The lady interviewing me, Amy, is a local student who's interested in a career in the media.  From how she did grilling me, I'd say she's got a fine future awaiting her!

It's an odd position to be in - very much the tables turned! - being interviewed myself instead of doing the interrogation.  It's also a useful lesson - I must remember to tuck my collar in next time I'm filmed!

I had a great time, and was thoroughly impressed with the cunning plot the Stoke Writers Group came up with. 

I was equally impressed how many people in the audience were so quickly on the trail of the killer, discarding the various red herrings and discerning the true motive with ruthless efficiency.  It's heartening to know we have plenty of fine amateur detectives out there!

Thanks also for your kind reaction to my own scribblings.  I was delighted so many of you had read The Judgement Book, and The Death Pictures and Evil Valley.  It's always good to know your efforts are appreciated!

The event proved so popular that the format for the evening is one I suspect  we'll use again - anything to lift the gloom of these dark autumn and winter evenings - so keep writing those thrillers and mysteries...

I've been asked to come along and host the event, which will be my pleasure.  I've already seen the plot, and it's a cunning one, which I can certainly say is worth trying to work out.  I may even borrow a bit of it for a book one day!  It's all based around Plymouth, and I won't give too much away, but it involves sordid secrets, drugs, sex and lots of other naughty bits too - just my kind of thing!

I'll also be doing a little talk about The Judgement Book, and have been asked to give some tips on how to write a crime thriller and get published.  That has caused me to question what I actually know about the subject!  However, I've scribbled down a few thoughts and will be happily airing them.

The event is tomorrow night (Thurs, 29th Oct), at Stoke Library, and starts at 7pm.  I'm told there's no need to book, just turn up.  Hope to see you there.

I'm pleased - delighted in fact - that you've been almost entirely positive.

It's a nerve wracking time, when the book is first published, people start reading it and coming forward with their views.  In the world of the internet and email, it's so much easier to air your opinions these days.  So much work goes into writing and editing the book, but the real moment - the judgement moment, if you like! - only comes when people start to read it.  To hear about their enjoyment is a wonderful vindication of all the work and very uplifting.  So - thank you!

If you're interested in some of the comments, you can have a look via the books page - www.thetvdetective.com/books.html

One more thing to add - I know you're a very polite and kind bunch, from meeting many of you in the talks I do, but I'd just like to say that I don't mind a bit of criticism either.  I count myself very much a newcomer to this writing lark, and comments from readers always help me with how I put together future books.

On the subject ot which, got to get back to just that very thing now.

Wishing you a fine week.

But we're talking Talking Books again, as it were. 

Firstly, an apology for being silent for a while. The reason is that I've got quite a bit on at the moment.  There's the first new book of next year to get sorted, or the initial draft, at least.  It's due in with the publishers by the end of the month, which means it's controlled panic time.

Well, mostly controlled!  Some days more so than others.

More about the new book in future blogs.

The other thing that's been occupying me is preparing to turn the tvdetective series into Talking Books.  I think I've just realised how much work is involved.  From reading a few test pages, and some quick calculations, I reckon it'll take about 15 hours recording time per book.

So, that's 45 hours or so for The Death Pictures, Evil Valley and The Judgement Book in all - or more than a working week!  I shall rule off my weekends for a fair few to come...

But, the important point is that it's flattering to be asked, and I'm delighted the series is to become Talking Books.  Although I have to say, I do find it a surreal thought, the idea of readers driving around in their cars, or lying in bed listening to me.

The other thing I've been doing is preparing a few voices for the characters.  I'm no actor, but I think I should at least have a try at making some of the gang sound the way I imagine them.

It'll be interesting - to say the least - to see if it's the way you imagine them too...

For quite a while now, people have been asking me when the tvdetective series is going to be turned into talking books.  I've come to understand how many folk have difficulties with their sight, or just fancy listening to them as they drive, or curl up to sleep.

I've always been keen to see the series as talking books, but the negotiations have taken quite a while - apologies about that. It's all commerce stuff, of which I understand little.

I also made a rod for my own back.  When I was first asked about adapting the series, I said only if I get to read them, they're my stories, after all!  It was a joke, but...

...that has now come back to haunt me.  I have indeed been asked to become the voice of the tvdetective talking books, and naturally I said yes.  I view it as flattering, and an honour.

It'll take quite a while, as all three books (so far) will be recorded.  The Death Pictures will be first, then Evil Valley, finally The Judgement Book.  But I hope they'll all be available by Christmas, which will be great.

I'm also practising some of the voices to use for the characters - that might be the most interesting (or amusing!) part of all.

Or here, in fact.  So ends my little tour to promote The Judgement Book - I've enjoyed it greatly, but I'm feeling like I need a holiday now!

A big thank you to the kind people of Appledore, who made me so very welcome at the Book Festival.  They take pride in calling it the "friendly festival", and I can certainly see why.  It was a delight to be there.

In fact, many thanks to all who hosted me on my travels.  I hope you enjoyed our meetings, and hope too to see you again in the future when I've completed some more scribblings of the things that some people kindly refer to as books...

As I am, and just heading to Appledore for the Book Festival, to talk about The Judgement Book, and lots of other stuff.

I'm performing at 6pm, if you're interested in an evening out - I think I can promise some reasonable entertainment!

Just agonising over what to wear - I am such a fuss at that.  I'll work something out... it probably won't match, or coordinate, but then I never really got the hang of fashion.

As you may have noticed!

Have a fine weekend, whatever you're doing...

For a relatively new one, it's already secured an excellent reputation.  Appledore is a wonderful place, the people are amazingly friendly and there are some great hostelries to eat and drink.

Thus, I'm very much looking forward to my visit!

If you fancy coming along, I'm performing at 6pm on the Friday (2nd October), and will be talking about The Judgement Book, along with an update on plans for the new tvdetective books for next year.

I imagine I'll probably come out with some of the usual oddball anecdotes too, if pushed... go on, you know you love them!

Wow, I'm tired, but also very pleased.

Lots of people came along to listen to my talks, and thank you all very much for doing so.  Even better, you were most kind - I was heartened by how many people had read the tvdetective books, and how much you said you enjoyed them.

Thank you all.  It helps give me the faith to keep writing.

From now on, I'm doing a few events, here and there - keep an eye out for them on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html 

The main thrust of my work next though, will be the new books for the coming year.  There's also a move on to turn the tvdetective series into talking books.  I'm fully behind that, as I've met many readers now who have asked for them.  More on the project as it pans out.  I think I'll also have a surprise for you about it too!

Finally, if you're free next weekend and looking for something to do, how about a visit to the Appledore Book Festival in north Devon?  I'm there on the Friday (2nd) at 6pm, but there are lots of other interesting events too, and it's a beautiful village.

Excuse me now, I'm going to have a weekend off - I think I deserve it! - hope yours is a good one too.

No talks to give today, the first time that's happened for a while.  But I have been working, honestly. 

I'm off to London tomorrow, for another couple of gigs to help promote The Judgement Book, so I've been writing the talks for those.  I confess to being a bit of a country boy at heart, which means it can be a little nervy for me.  But every time I go out of my Devon homeland to talk to people, they're always very kind - for which I'm most grateful. 

I've also been working on the new books for next year.  I reckon they're coming along fine, although there's still plenty to do.

Still, I'm enjoying it, which makes it very worthwhile - as does the reaction of the people I've been speaking to about the tvdetective series this week.  Thanks to you all!

I was amazed to see so many people - not to mention more than a little nervous about having to do a talk to you all!  But I think the evening went well, and I greatly enjoyed it.  It's always special to do a gig in your home town.

Thanks also to the fine folk of Exeter Library and the Devon Library Service for their support, the Old Porch Band for their music, and the Exeter Brewery for providing such enjoyable refreshments.

I was touched with not only how many people had tried my books, but how much you knew about them. 

I even had to think carefully at a couple of points about answering your questions - some people seemed to know more about the novels than I did!

The tea in Poole was the best cup I've had for ages, the home made cake in Seaton superb, the questioning in Exmouth very fine and fiery, and there was a splendid lunch in Taunton.

So thank you to everyone for organising the events, and for coming along.  I enjoyed them all, and was heartened to meet so many people who had read the tvdetective books, and even more that you enjoyed them!

There are still more events to come.  If you fancy popping along to one, there's a list on the news and events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

I'd be very pleased indeed to see you - but don't forget the tea, cakes etc..!

I greatly enjoyed both events.  It's always interesting to talk with readers about what they enjoy and also don't like in books - it helps me learn! - and other authors about what they're working on.

St Ives was stunning in the September sunshine, a real taste of the summer we never had. I treated myself to a naughty Cornish pasty, some local fish and even a Cornish ice cream too, only in the name of aiding the local economy, of course. Delicious the lot!

Thanks too to the organisers of both festivals.  They worked smoothly and efficiently, and were a real pleasure to perform at - I could see how much the people who came along enjoyed themselves.

Sometimes the organisers get forgotten, but they do a great job, so a big thank you to them.

On now with the rest of the Judgement Book tour - I'm off to Taunton, Seaton and Poole today.  Busy, but always entertaining.

I even had time this morning to do some work on the books for next year - yes, I did say books plural!  More of that later...

I very much enjoyed the evening - I've not been to Colyton for ages, and was happily reminded what a beautiful town it is.  I'm flattered so many people came along when it was carnival time and you had the rival attraction of the bingo to draw you away!

From here, on the road, tomorrow to the Reading Crime Festival, then the St Ives Festival, then all over the place!  It promises to be a busy, but fun time. 

If anyone is interested in me coming along to do a talk, do please get in touch via the contacts page of the site - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html   I'll do my best to help.

I feel like it's my birthday!

I can now confess, I was more nervous than usual - it was almost all new material, so I was by no means sure how it would go down with an audience.  But the good people laughed, booed and grimaced in the right places, so I think all was well.

Probably most importantly, the reading I gave from Judgement Book seemed to be appreciated and enjoyed.  That's the first time any of the book has been read to an audience, so it was a big moment for me.

It helped to be on home turf too.  All in all, it was a most enjoyable start to the round of gigs I'm doing.  Many thanks to you all for coming along.  For those who bought copies of The Judgement Book, I hope you enjoy it.  Please do get in touch when you've finished it and let me know what you thought. 

Don't forget I'm doing plenty more talks and signings in the next few weeks.  There's a full list on the News and Events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

If there's one near you, and you fancy coming, it'd be a pleasure to see you.

Someone told me yesterday that it was now officially the end of summer.

I'd like them to tell me when it actually began?  Perhaps I missed it?

What it all means for me, apart from getting even wetter and colder when I'm out on the road reporting, is that it's harder to get up in the morning to do some writing.

There's something about the early morning summer light which makes it much easier to rise at just after 6, my usual getting up time.  When we're in the dark and cold wells of the winter, with rain beating at the window, it's not such an appetising prospect.

However! Getting around to the point, as I eventually do, given the demands of my fine publishers, the fair folk at Accent Press, a good lie in bed is not going to be much of an option this winter.

We've just been having a discussion about what they'd like me to produce, in terms of writing, next year.  It's quite a bit, to say the least!

I won't tell you just yet, as it's all still to be finalised - and sorry for being a tease, but you know me! - although I will say this.  It promises to be a very busy year for Dan and Adam.

And that strange chap who writes about them, of course.

I'll let you know more as soon as it's all sorted.

A final thought for this tvdetective post - it's now just four days until the Judgement Book comes out.  I'm getting more excited by the day!  I never got the hang of growing up...

The acknowledgements are the oddest I've ever written.

I can't remember when I wrote them, but I'm wondering if I might have had a drink or two at the time, or was feeling light headed.

They're certainly creative, to put it mildly!

I won't spoil it for you by saying any more, but if you do have a look, I hope you find them endearing, rather than just mad.

Thanks to Amazon, who are kindly offering The Judgement Book at an introductory discount of two pounds off the usual cover price.  If you're interested, you can look it up via the books page - www.thetvdetective.com/books.html

My copies of The Judgement Book have just arrived, hence the excitement and the rather odd title for this blog.  It's like being a child on Xmas morning!

It all looks rather good, in my humble opinion.  You never quite know how a book is going to turn out until you hold it.  For all the proofs you get sent of the cover, the only way of really knowing how it'll come out is when you see it.

And I'm very pleased with this one.

That, incidentally, is why I think these electronic book reader things (spot the technophobe) will do ok, but never make old fashioned actual physical books disappear.  There's something about holding a book in your hands, the smell of the paper and the feel of it, plus the stack by the side of your bed, your little personal collection of reading, which is irreplacable - to me at least.

Or is it just me being an old codger?!

The answer is a mix of places.  Some I simply hear or see in the course of this thing called life.  The doctor in the tvdetective series, Silifant for example - I borrowed his name from a firm of undertakers in Exeter, just because I thought it was such a great one.  It felt to me as if it summed up an aged and grumpy medic.  It's odd how some names do that - they seem to describe the person.

I often leaf through the phone book to get a mix of ordinary and more jazzy names - I hope the combination is convincing.  There's such a great range to choose from!

A recent development is that friends have asked for their names to be used.  One old school pal makes it into The Judgement Book as a long dead parish priest.  The slightly worrying part of this is that he wanted to be a madman, or mass murderer!  But he's far too fine a chap for that.

I've also put in a couple of friends who are getting married, as a sort of strange wedding gift.  But before you ask, no, that's not just me being mean - I have bought them a proper present too!

Last thought in this blog - I'm told The Judgement Book is now listed for order on various websites.  If you're interested, do have a look via the books page - www.thetvdetective.com/books.html

Thus, some of today has been spent thinking about what to say!

The good news is that, in the course of my strange life, I think I've accumulated enough to amuse, interest and hopefully even entertain you for an hour or so.

So, if you'd like to know the rather embarrassing reason why I always carefully check the flies of my trousers before a talk, how I've been most severely told off by readers for some of the things I've done in the books, or indeed what plans there are for future tvdetective adventures, do please come along to one.

There's a list of all the events on the news page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Hope to see you there!

The answer is that I don't have to.  I enjoy writing immensely and think of it as my hobby.  The fact that people seem to enjoy it too, and want to know more about the adventures of Dan and Adam just makes it even better. 

I don't even set myself a target of how many words to write in a day or a week.  I've found that to be counterproductive.  It puts me under pressure, which is a sure way to scare off any creativity or inspiration.  I just try to relax and let it flow.

It's a tough lesson to learn, but writing is a fickle mistress.  Some days it just works easily and I can write good sections of a book with little real apparent effort.  On other days the muse simply refuses to come, and she can be very obstinate.  Those are the most difficult, and used to leave me frustrated.  Nowadays I've come to accept they happen and can walk away, knowing that the next day will be different.

Or hopefully anyway!

Where I have had to discipline myself is in writing thetvdetective blog.  It's new to me - I'm rather old media, when it comes to technology - so I've had to try to set aside time for it in my writing week.  I'm hoping I've just about got the hang of it now and am enjoying it - I think it makes for a good way of having a conversation. 

And finally for this posting, as for the people who keep asking me about what happens in The Judgement Book, you'll have to be patient!  It's less than a month until it comes out now...

It's all in preparation for the launch of The Judgement Book.  I'm rather fond of the book's cover, which now dominates the site's banner, and I hope you like it too.  It strikes me as attention grabbing, something that should be easily spotted on a shop bookshelf, and nicely in keeping with the TV camera theme of The Death Pictures and Evil Valley.

Large amounts of work goes into the book jackets, with ideas and drafts often going back and forth between the designers, the publishers and myself for several weeks, until finally we come up with something we all like.  No wonder it can be a long process!

The final edits on The Judgement Book are now done and it'll be off to the printers in a couple of days.  Which means my copies should be coming through in a week or two.  Which, in turn, for me is a jolly exciting moment.  This is the point at which all the work finally feels like it's come to fruition.  A real book!  At last...

Thus!  It looks like the Crime Writers Association will be holding another event next year, and this time it may grow - 7 fold to be exact.  So as not to tie writers and readers down to one particular day, next year it will probably become a Crime Fiction Week.  For those who want to get a flavour of what it was like this year, have a look at the archives section of the news page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html 

Next year, we're hoping for more events, and more variety in the things we do; signings, talks, maybe even writing workshops and other educational activities.  I'll keep you posted.

One more thing to mention.  I don't normally do this, as it's quite personal, but I think you'll understand why on this occasion.  Excuse me if I'm out of touch for a few days, but I'm off to Jersey for a wedding.

It's the union of one of my longest standing friends, John Ayres, to his wonderful partner Emma Ruminski.  I first met John when I went to university, all those years ago, where he was the radio station manager.  It was he who encouraged me to get involved in journalism, which in turn led to me becoming a writer.

So, as you can see, I owe him a great deal, and I'm very much looking forward to being there for his happy day.  All the very best to a delightful couple!

The letterbox creaked and the doorstep thudded with the final version of the manuscript earlier this week.  My poor postman must hate me, with all the weight he has to lug around on my behalf, but that's by and by.  The important thing is that we're almost there with having it ready for publication.

I'm about half way through this last read through, and still finding the odd little typo, spelling or punctuation error. I was thinking how remarkable/annoying that is following so much work - after writing the book, I usually go back over it four or five times myself to tighten it up or amend the odd bit or two.  Then it goes to the publishers for their scrutiny, read throughs and suggested amendments - then back to me for the final read throughs and signing off.

And after all that, I'm still finding little mistakes!  Mind, I was wondering if any book had ever been published without at least one little error in there, be it a missing speech mark, or missing or repeated word, or whatever - perhaps not so surprising when you consider most books are over a hundred thousand words - but I'm meandering againg, so back to the point.

The Judgement Book is nearly done and ready for publication!  Just five weeks now... I'm very pleased with how it's all shaping up, and looking forward greatly to my little tour of the libraries and literary festivals which have been kind enough to invite me along.

And if you're wondering what I'm talking about - and my friends do say that's a familiar feeling - I've been asked how many more books I think I can write about the adventures of Dan and Adam.

The answer is quite a few.  Just about everywhere I go I carry my little silver pocket notebook, for handy jottings down when an idea bites - and they can do so at the oddest of times.  These thoughts can be tiny, like a little mannerism for a new character, or an observation on a piece of architecture or scenery, or they can be far grander, like a potential new plot.

So, in answer to the question, I've been having a quick look through the notes, and I think there are outline ideas for at least another half dozen books there, and possibly even more.  The reason I can't be precise is that sometimes I find I have an idea, get myself all excited about it, then start to work it up as a plot and find it doesn't have quite enough to it to make a book.  So about, kind of approximately, roughly half a dozen is the best I can manage in terms of the answer.

It is remarkable how one single idea can carry a book if it's strong enough - I'd say that was the case with Death Pictures, the whole novel revolving around that strand of the riddle, what the answer was, and what it all meant.  Sometimes the characters themselves can carry a book, as with Evil Valley and how it's dominated by the person we're hunting - I won't name them in case you haven't read it - don't want to spoil it for you!

As for The Judgement Book, all I'm saying is that what carries it is probably a mix of some of the new characters you're about to meet (along with those you already know, of course) and the plot too, but in this case it's a little different, as it's the first time I've made a character of something inanimate - the Judgement Book itself.

6 weeks to go until it's released - and I have to confess, I'm getting a little excited about it...

Many thanks to all who came to the event in Plymouth yesterday.  I had a splendid time meeting you, and doing what many observers seem to think this writer / broadcaster enjoys the most, that is, naturally, talking about himself.

I'm glad to see the Samaritans' 24/7 campaign to raise awareness of their work got plenty of media and community interest, as indeed it should.  The fine and invaluable service they provide is well worth taking note of, and I was delighted to be involved.

I know plenty of people will be struggling to keep children entertained over the long summer hols, so I've made sure it'll be child friendly, should you want to bring youngsters along.

I've just about finished writing the talk - although I always find I manage to ambush / waylay / distract myself with a few digressions along the way - and I've got quite a fresh new things to tell you about, whether it's the new book or some of my escapades over the past few months.

Copies of my books will be on sale, courtesy of the kind folk at Waterstone's, which I'll be very happy to sign for you.

I'm looking forward to it - although I always get a little nervous before these things! - and I'd be delighted to see you there.

Have a look, and if there's one near you and you fancy coming along, please do, I'd be delighted to see you.  I've got quite a few new stories to share!

It promises to be a busy, but entertaining couple of weeks.  Thanks to everyone who's been kind enough to invite me to come and do an event, I'm very much looking forward to it. 

Apart from being a refreshing rest, it's helped me to work up some ideas for new books.  I don't mean to be a tease, but I think I've got the outlines for a couple now, although no more details at the moment - I'm still simmering the ideas to see how they come along!

It also gave me time to work on the talks I'll be doing to support The Judgement Book, when it comes out on Sept 7th.  Only 7 weeks now...

If you've come to one of my talks before, then I'm afraid that's not going to be an excuse for not coming along to one of the new ones.  I've got lots of fresh stuff to tell you about, which I hope will at least be mildly entertaining! The list of dates will be going up on the site in the next few days. 

Finally, on the subject of which, please don't forget the talk I'm doing to support the Samaritans in Plymouth next week (Fri 24th July, 2pm at the Theatre Royal).  They're a great bunch who do some wonderful work, so the more people who turn out to support them the better.  I'd be very grateful and pleased to see you there.

The start can often be just one simple basic idea - as with the riddle of the Death Pictures - and the rest of the book then gets built around that.  It's fairly similar with Evil Valley, as that too is built on one central premise, the man who's gone badly off the rails and what that then means for the people who come into contact with him.

After the initial idea I sketch out sub plots, to give the book pace and variety, thoughts on what new characters I'll need, and what they'll be like, and what's going on in the lives of the usual gang, Dan, Adam, Claire El, Lizzie and all. Combine that together and you've got the ingredients for a book.

Then comes the skelton, or structure.  I write down pages of notes about what will happen to start with, how the story will progress and then ultimately end.  Around that evolve the sub plots and the characters' lives, but with a mind to always work back towards that skeleton of the narrative.

However!  There is an oddity to all this - I've never yet written a book which has followed my planned structure entirely.  Things tend to happen as you write which you don't expect, and can lead the book off in odd direction - it's usually the characters which cause this little problem.

And so arises an interesting / worrying question.  If they're my characters, and I'm supposed (nominally, at least) to be in charge of what's going on, how come they seem to manage to live for themselves and end up doing their own thing.

And to that, despite many hours of thought, as with many of the strange things that go on in my head, I still have no answer...

I'm doing a little talk and book signing in the Oxfam Bookstore, in South St, Exeter, on Saturday (11th) at 4pm.

It's part of Oxfam's Bookfest campaign, to help raise money to alleviate poverty around the world.

It's a great cause, so if you can come along, please do.  I'd be delighted to see you.

It makes quite a thud, coming through the letterbox, and I have to confess, has me scampering for the door to get it, not to mention clawing at the packaging to open.

It's the old "Child at Xmas" syndrome - some things we never grow out of!

Seeing the book properly set up and formatted, albeit in loose leaf form, is quite a thrill.  I can now reveal it goes on for 329 pages, and I'm already almost half way into the read through.

This is more like a detailed examination than a leisurely read - I'm looking for any spelling or punctuation errors, missing words, things like that.  Following this, we do yet another read through (both myself and the publishers), then we're set to get the thing out there.

All is still on track for Sept 7th.

Back to the reading then...

It's at the Theatre Royal, in Plymouth, on Friday, 24th July, at 2pm.  There's more on the events page - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

I'm just working on the talk now.  For those of you who have suffered my rantings before and thus are weighing up whether to come along then fear not - I can promise you some fresh anecdotes from my strange life, plus an insight into my new novel, The Judgement Book, which is published on Sept 7th.  By the time of the talk, the final edits should be done and the book ready to go - or so I hope.  I'll update you on the day!

There'll also be copies of my previous books on sale, which I'll be very happy to dedicate for you. My publishers have kindly provided some freebie bookmarks to hand out too - call it your reward for sitting through one of my talks!

As you'll probably know from the books, Dan has a tendency to depression, which has led him to some very dark corners in life.   It's for him, and the countless many like him that the Samaritans are always there, ready to listen but never judge.

I'm extremely proud to be supporting them.

I walked past the store one evening at the weekend, going into town with some friends, and lo!  There was piled a load of my books, plus a picture of your truly leering out from the window.

Apart from frightening the children, it also caused much amusement amongst said friends.

Not to mention much embarrassment for me.

As if it isn't bad enough seeing myself on the TV...

However!  I am, of course, very grateful to Oxfam for their support, and am much looking forward to the event.  If you're about in Exeter that Saturday (4pm) please come along.  Oxfam do wonderful work in trying to relieve poverty across the world, so I'd .like to try to raise as much money as possible. 

Aside from a little chat from me, there'll be lots of copies of my books to sell, which I'm very happy to dedicate to whoever you like for a small extra contribution to Oxfam...

It's well timed as I'm just in the middle of that stage at the moment.

How it starts is with just a single idea.  It can be for a character, as with Evil Valley and the viciously embittered Mr Gibson, or it can be for a plot, or just a quirk of how it works, as in the central theme of riddle of The Death Pictures.  Whatever, just one decent idea can be enough to construct a whole book around. 

It's one of those odd things, like some have said about arthritis, or love - you only truly believe in them when you have them.  It''s the same with an idea - you only really know it's a decent one when it bites you. 

So, this is how it goes.  I have the idea, and from there I nurture it.  I work other ideas around it, maybe a sub plot, perhaps a twist or a character or series of characters.  I write them down longhand on a big pad and then play around with them all, to see how they can interact or develop in the stages of a book. 

I like my books to have plenty of pace and variety, to keep you interested and guessing what's going on, so I have to build in lots of developments or surprises.  I hope I'm doing that ok!

I keep on building on the basic idea - almost baking it in fact is the way I think of it - a process which can take several months - until I'm sure I've got the skeleton, or structure of the book worked out - and only then will I start writing.

Most of my books are around 110 thousand words, so it needs that kind of momentum, built up over quite a period of time, to carry me through writing them...

That's one of the greatest differences between the worlds of publishing and journalism.  In publishing, there are lead up times of anything up to two years for a book, and sometimes even more.  In journalism a story breaks and you just go cover it.  A lead up time is a rare luxury!

Anyway, as I was saying, next year.  A new book has been ordered, which is great to know - it makes me feel I must be doing something right!  The problem now of course is waiting for the elusive concept called inspiration.

And it can feel like a long and frustrating wait...

However!  The good news is that I think the idea thing for the new book has finally decided to grace me with an appearance, and it's shaping up nicely.  It'll be another tvdetective adventure, but probably the most difficult, and possibly most shocking case that Dan and Adam have come up against so far. 

I won't give away too much at this stage - not least because I'm not entirely sure how it's all going to come out myself! - but I think there might well be a terrorism theme to it...

I think we're now looking at about 20 events across the country, a fine assortment of crime writers giving talks and doing book signings. 

I'm told events will be listed on the Crime Writers' Association website, so do have a look there to see if there's one near you to come along to.  Your support would be much appreciated - it's a great cause.

I've talked a little in my blog about when I write, now I'm asked about where.

The answer is just about anywhere. I suspect it's to do with my journalist's background, but I can write in almost any place without being distracted by what's going on around me.  One of my favourites is on the train.  I like watching the countryside trundling past, getting ideas from the scenery and the places I pass.  And one of the richest sources of characterisation is my fellow travellers.  A few minutes looking around can always give me an idea for some quirks to give to characters, the sort of tiny human traits that can make a person rise from the paper and feel properly alive.

For much the same reason I also like to sit in pubs, jotting down ideas. Thus I can categorically deny I'm only there for the beer!

But my most common workplace is my study.  It's in the loft of the house, has a lovely skylight which looks out over Exeter, and is great for prompting creativity.  The room itself is just a chair and a desk on which I put my laptop, a stereo system for a little background music, my stack of vinyl from my younger days (yes, I am that old fashioned), plies of cuttings and sheets of papers filled with ideas, and a soft chair, to sit and think.

It's such a pleasant space I have been known to fall asleep up there...

It looks like being a fortnight of events in the middle of September.  I'll be at the Reading Crime Festival, the St Ives Festival in Cornwall, and the Appledore Festival, along with quite a few talks and signings at libraries.

All the details will be posted on the site as they're confirmed.  Please do come along to an event near you.  I still count myself very much a newcomer to this writing business, and audience feedback helps me greatly.

I'm very much looking forward to the tour - and have even started shaping up a few new anecdotes to tell...

The Crime Writers' Association is joining forces with Oxfam to do a series of events at Oxfam bookstores around the country.  Well known authors will be giving talks and doing signings as part of the two weeks of the Oxfam Bookfest.

I'm delighted to have been invited to take part - I'll be at the Oxfam Bookstore in Exeter on Saturday, July 11th.  There are more details on the events page of the site - www.thetvdetective.com/news.html

Please do come along!  I hope we get lots of people there to raise money for a great cause.

Good question!

The answer is that I tend to do the bulk of my actual writing in the morning.  I get up most days about six, which means I can usually put a couple of hours in before being scrambled to a story. Combine that with a few hours at the weekend, and it's remarkable how quickly you can build up a book.

In the evening, I'm usually too tired to do any actual writing - after a long day, the thought of sitting at a computer isn't entirely attractive - but I find it a great time to outline the next stages of a plot, along with the quirks of any characters who we're going to meet.  I'll usually just crash out on the sofa, put some relaxing music on, lay back and think.

Some days it comes easier than others!  At the moment, it's going nicely, which I suspect is because of the long and light days.  Sunshine can be such a fine catalyst for creativity.

That's fine by me.  If you do have any questions, just get in touch via the contacts page on the site - www.thetvdetective.com/contact.html  and I'll see what I can do to answer them - as honestly as possible, within the bounds of taste and decency!

I'm just starting the final edits of The Judgment Book now.  If I'm honest, this is not by any means my favourite part of the writing process.  I like building up ideas, letting them grow, then setting them all down in the first draft of a new book.

Now, this might well sound daft, but although I already know what's going to happen (at least in theory) it can feel like I'm also reading the story as I go along.  Sometimes I even get frustrated at the slow pace of my writing because I want to know what happens next!

Odd, eh?!  But that's how it is with me.

Anyway, as I was saying, that means the editing process sometimes feels like lots of quibbling over the dots and commas of precise punctuation, but I know it's important and has to be done, so if you'll excuse me, I'll be getting back to it...

I have been doing some writing work - promise! - and also sorting out a few of the details of the round of events I've kindly been invited to as part of the promotion of The Judgement Book. It's looking like an exciting few weeks are in prospect, with visits to Reading, St Ives, Taunton and Appledore, amongst others. 

I'll make sure the details of events are posted on the site as they're confirmed. If there's one in your area, please do come along.  It's always a pleasure to meet folk who have read the books.  Feedback helps me no end.  I still count myself as very much a newcomer to this writing lark, and any thoughts or ideas you have are most welcome.

They might even find themselves incorporated in a future book!

Huh!

However... all is now fixed (until the next error message pings up, naturally) so I shall renew my relationship with modern life, and blog on, as it were.

So - the new novel, The Judgement Book, is just about done.  I've seen the cover and it looks great, another TV camera style image.  I won't say any more so you can judge for yourself when it comes out.

The book is released on Sept 7th.  The next few weeks will be taken up with the minor edits, all punctuation and grammar issues, which may sound small but can take up plenty of time and cause more than a few arguments.  

As for the plot, it's a story of sordid secrets, a bit of sex, some corruption, lawbreaking and blackmail, and the first case in which Dan and Adam find themselves personally involved - at great risk to their very futures...

It's been great fun writing!