As some you may know I am a fan of Diane Saxon, not just as writer but also as a person, she’s a natural born storyteller. Naturally I jumped at the oppourtunity to attend a third virtual book launch that Diane hosted. This one was for her latest book called My Sister’s Secret and here is the blurb:
Four sisters, four secrets. Who has the deadliest of them all? Something happened to me when was nine. My childhood memories before that fateful day are gone. Extinguished. The aftermath became a living nightmare with a guilt that runs so deep that I’m not sure I can ever tell anyone. I fear I’ve left it too late….
The burden of my secret and the hurt and the pain that silence cost each and every member of my family is too overwhelming. But you can’t avoid fate and now I have the opportunity to right the wrongs inflicted on us. There was no justice. Not then. Not now. But I can change that. The big question is, how far am I willing to go?
At the book launch Diane treated us to a reading and I have to say it was phenomenal, i didn’t want her to stop. She also shared with us where she gets her inspiration: it could be from one of the many walks she goes on with her dogs, or from a conversation with a stranger. What I love most about Saxon’s writing is that it is effortlessly brilliant and as the reader you genuinely do not know what is going to happen at any given point in the book.
The virtual launch was not just limited to those in the UK, there were attendees from South Africa and America which was absolutely brilliant and shows how internationally adored Diane is.
We then proceeded to the games of the evening: prior to launch each attendee was sent a package which consisted of a personal signed copy of the book, some chocolates, a drink and a bookmark.
Those who had black Lindor Chocolates would have their name in her next book. Those who received a pink can of gin and tonic had the opportunity to name a object that she will include. I was one of the lucky three that had a pink can. The other two selected a Care Bear and a red Buddha. Me – being me – chose Derigible, I explained why and will share this reason with you: after a few glasses of wine one evening I turned to my partner and said ‘Derigible is such a fun word for a massive thing that floats around in the sky. Who looked up at that and said ‘I know exactly what to call that: a derigible?’. The look I received from him needed no words …
These games are not only a lovely way for Saxon’s readers to feel included in her books but it is fun to figure out when and where the names and objects will appear. However we did all ask Diane to not hurt the Care Bear. Whether or not she will is anyone’s guess.
I cannot reccomend her books highly enough. Even if you’re not a fan of the psycological thriller genre, do give Diane’s books a try, they will convert you.
My Sister’s Secret by Diane Saxon is available in Paperback, eBook and audiobook.