Category Archives: Life & Style

Interview With The Deadly Spark Author Roxie Key

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Did you always want to be a writer?

I think so. I used to write short stories about my childhood pet cats as superheroes. I didn’t think too much of it until I was tasked with writing a short story for my GCSE coursework. My English teacher told me I should be a writer, and something clicked in my brain. That’s when I knew. After completing my creative writing degree, I attempted to write several children’s fantasy stories before I realised that takes a certain kind of brain – one which I don’t possess! It wasn’t until I picked up Jane Casey’s The Missing, I thought yes! Maybe I could do this. And the more crime fiction I read, the more certain I became that it was what I wanted to do.

What books did you read growing up?

I was an Enid Blyton kinda kid. I had alllll the books. My dad used to read me bedtime stories every night he was home without fail, and we worked our way through The Famous Five series pretty quickly. I remember reading a lot of Dick King Smith, and later went on to discover the Harry Potter series which I fully immersed myself in to. When I got older, I was really into The Lord of the Rings and Phillip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy. I truly didn’t see the crime fiction obsession coming!

What was the idea behind The Deadly Spark?

A few things sparked the idea, one of which I can’t tell you about as it’ll reveal something I really don’t want you to know yet… the killer’s identity! But honestly? The reason I wanted to write about a deadly fire was because it’s one of my biggest phobias, ever since we were shown a video at primary school about how quickly a house can go up in flames. Fire is so beautiful but so destructive, so dramatic, and the mental image of a burning house is so emotive, so naturally, it’s great to write about. And of course, I find inspiration in everything I read, from Gillian McAllister’s incredible characterisation and Louise Jensen’s beautiful description, to Jane Casey’s expert procedural plotting and Clare Mackintosh’s killer twists and reveals.

Can you tell us about your publishing journey?

I started writing The Deadly Spark in the summer of 2019, just after my honeymoon. After many, many rejections, I finally met my dream literary agent Maddalena Cavaciuti on Twitter in 2020. We polished the manuscript together, and landed a contract with HQ early 2021, and it’s been a rollercoaster ever since – not just the publishing journey, but I also managed to have a baby in that time. The book finally launched in May 2024, and I spent 6 months in a bit of a whirlwind of author events, sending out press releases and refreshing the reviews pages. I’m currently out of contract and excited at the idea of working with a new publisher!

What’s your writing routine?

I like to have each act and each chapter planned so I know more or less what’s happening. That way I find the writing and creativity flows better as I’m not worrying so much about plot issues further down the line. Once it’s all planned out, chapter by chapter, I snatch any time I can between my full-time job and parenting my crazy toddler, and write what I can when I can (and try not to stress about it). I can’t have dedicated writing time with my current situation so things are a bit slower than I’d like them to be.

Who are your favourite authors and books?

As mentioned above, I’m a huge fan of Gillian McAllister, Louise Jensen, Jane Casey and Clare Mackintosh – these are the authors I’ll read anything they’ve ever written. I’ve recently discovered Erin Kelly after reading The House of Mirrors and now I’m a little bit obsessed. Louise Minchin’s Isolation Island was SO good, Rob Parker’s The Troubled Deep was absolutely brilliant, and Robert Rutherford’s Seven Days was addictive. I do occasionally read outside of the crime fiction genre – although it doesn’t happen often – and I recently fell in love with Rachel Greenlaw’s Compass & Blade… a stunning book. 

What’s your favourite thing about being a writer?

It has to be reading people’s responses to the book. Luckily for me, they’ve been mostly positive, so reading reviews, seeing social media posts about it, and attending book club meet ups has been such a lovely experience. I’ve also really enjoyed being on author panel events during my debut year – they were a LOT of fun.

And the least?

The waiting… the uncertainty… the fear of failure and rejection. I’m not sure if I can pick just one. There’s a lot to deal with along the way, and I don’t think I felt like a real author until the first time I walked into Waterstones and saw my book sitting on the shelf. Imposter syndrome is a big issue for a lot of authors I’ve spoken to, and it’s pretty hard to shake it off.

What’s next? 

I have a few things on the go. The follow up to The Deadly Spark is almost finished, and I need to find a home for it. I’m working on a standalone thriller which I can’t reveal too much about just yet, but I’m super excited about it. And I’m dabbling in the world of lesbian rom coms with a new idea that I want to get stuck into. I’ve also got my first piece in Mslexia Magazine being published in March, and it’s all about marketing ideas for authors – do check it out if you can!

www.roxiekey.com

THE DEADLY SPARK
published by HQ (HarperCollins)

Roxie Key is a crime thriller author from Northampton, where she lives with her wife, Laura, and their daughter, Hallie. She has always been a writer; although the stories she wrote as a child about her pets will never see the light of day, she knew from a young age that one day she wanted to see her name on a book cover. Roxie studied Creative & Media Writing at Middlesex University and then went on to become a copywriter for a global brand. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found swimming, reading, or gaming.

Interview With Bestselling Author Laura Pearson

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Tell us about you.

Hi. I’m Laura, I live in a village in Leicestershire with my husband, our two children and our cat. I’m pretty obsessed with reading and writing, and as well as writing novels I help run a Facebook book club called The Bookload.

Did you always want to be a writer?

I did, from about the age of six. I wrote and illustrated my first book about a witch at that time. It was about two pages long. I didn’t realise that illustrator was a separate job (and only usually required for children’s books).

What do you consider your big break?

I think getting my first offer of publication, because it had been such a long time coming.

What was your publication journey like?

Long and rocky. Which I think is true for most people. I finished writing my first book in 2010 and my first book was published in 2018. It wasn’t the same book but the first one did also get published. I’ve had three agents and two publishers and a huge amount of rejections.

Did you ever believe The Last List of Mabel Beaumont would do so well?

I really had no idea. My confidence was on the floor because I’d been trying to get another book published for four years at that point. My expectations were low, I was just over the moon to be published again. When she started to take off, it was amazing to watch. I think she’s exceeded everyone’s expectations for her.

What has changed since selling so many books?

I think I just feel more comfortable in describing myself as an author and spending so much of my time writing books. It’s really hard to believe in yourself if it feels like no one else does. Now I have an agent and an editor I can go to with questions or for support and that makes a huge difference. Also, people say really lovely things about my books all the time and it’s often so unexpected. Even though I know I’ve sold a lot of copies I’m still always surprised when anyone’s read them!

What advice would you give to other writers?

I think just to keep going if you possibly can. Obviously there can come a point where it’s not the best thing for you, but up to that point, keep writing, keep submitting. It’s all about finding the right match and it can take a long time. Rejections don’t mean you’re not good enough, they just mean you haven’t found the right person yet.

How do you become, and stay, successful as a writer?

Ask me in ten years’ time! I have no idea whether my success will last. I was so delighted when I got my first three-book deal but then I had another years-long rough patch, so nothing’s guaranteed. I am contracted to write quite a lot more novels for Boldwood Books, which I’m very happy about. But whether or not they’ll sell well remains to be seen. I just keep writing the best books I can. That’s all I can do.

What are your writing ambitions now?

We writers are very good at moving goalposts. Now I’ve sold more books than I ever thought I would, I want to be in a supermarket, and sell more foreign rights, and of course have a TV or film made of one of my books. There’s so much to aim for and I’m very ambitious.

What’s next?

My latest book, The Many Futures of Maddy Hart, came out in early February, and my next comes out in May. I’m not sure whether I’m allowed to tell anyone the title yet, but it’s about two women in their early sixties who meet by chance and are shocked to find that they’re identical. And after that, many more books! I like playing around with speculative ideas and coming up with interesting hooks.

Michael Rowan – our second reviewer on this occasion, so popular was this concert – runs out of superlatives, describing the latest London Philharmonic Orchestra concert, Symphonic Dances; as Juraj Valčuha presents Rachmaninoff’s electrifying Symphonic Dances, and Boris Giltburg performs Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. https://lpo.org.uk/tickets-and-discounts/

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The London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Edward Gardner perform Barber: Medea’s Dance of Vengeance, Berlioz: The Death of Cleopatra (mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato) and Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 (Eroica) in the Royal Festival Hall on Wednesday 25 Sept. 2024. Photos by Mark Allan

A mere five-minute walk from London’s Waterloo Station, overlooking the river Thames, stands the Royal Festival Hall. This is where the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra deliver some of their magnificent concerts. Their latest in a packed programme of concerts enchanted us with Glazunov – Concert Waltz No. 1,Tchaikovsky’s – Piano Concerto No. 1 and Rachmaninoff – Symphonic Dances. Glazunov’s Concert Waltz, is not often performed, so was something of a treat.

The stage was packed with strings, so much so, that I doubt there was space left, for so much as a single triangle, but goodness wasn’t it worth it? The music, so beautiful, even I believed that I could waltz. Sweeping sensual music enveloped the audience and soon we were transported in a dreamlike state, the bows of the string section, swaying in unison like blades of corn, caught by the breeze. Blissful.

All too soon the music, reached a crescendo, and then there was a few minutes for the delighted audience to take stock of what we had just heard, whilst a large section of the strings left the stage, to be replaced by a grand piano, as we prepared to listen to what might be described as a stellar performance by a true virtuoso of Tchaikovsky’s – Piano Concerto No. 1

Boris Giltburg c Chris Gloag

Boris Giltburg is a genius by any measure, and we were privileged to watch him perform his magic at such close range. Swooping over the keys, nose at times hovering just above the keys, this was a rare opportunity to see him tease and coax the notes from his piano. The piece, instantly recognisable, but the playing transcending any familiarity. It was like hearing it for the first time. At times, Giltberg’s fingers were a blur as they flew over the keys, at other time slow deliberate movements, but always mesmerising.

The applause said it all, and we were rewarded with an all too short encore, all this and we were only just at the interval. I should confess that I was unaware of Symphonic Dances, but I was pleased to have my musical education broadened. The piece was composed towards the end of Rachmaninov’s life, his last major piece was written in 1940.

The first movement is a forceful stylised march with brief powerful explosive elements. The middle section is much slower than the first movement with a languorous melody moving from elegance to melodic warmth. Hauntingly gentle, what I would call soul nourishing music. How could I not have come across this piece earlier? The final movement has a slow sombre introduction building a degree of urgency as the music rises and falls, building anticipation with frenetic percussion, and I was not alone to be disappointed, when all too quickly it drew to a close.

Juraj Valcuha conducted with brio and animation, demonstrating taut control, like the ultimate puppet master, bringing out the very best of a fantastically talented orchestra.

If you are near London, I would heartily recommend that you check out the concerts below, and if you are not perhaps this is a good time to plan that trip.

An Alpine Symphony

Fri 21 Feb 2025, 7.30pm – Royal Festival Hall No composer tells a story quite like Richard Strauss – or paints a picture in more fabulous sounds. So when he set out to depict the majesty of the Bavarian Alps, the results are spectacular.

Repertoire

Tania León – Pasajes

Grieg – Piano Concerto

R Strauss – An Alpine Symphony

Pre-concert event: In this free performance, LPO Junior Artists perform alongside Orchestra members, Foyle Future Firsts and Junior Artist alumni in a celebration of vibrant young talent.

Rothko Chapel

Sat 22 Feb 2025, 6.30pm – St John’s Church, Waterloo. Time becomes space, sounds become colours and shapes, and the classical elegance of St John’s Waterloo floods with emotion that’s real enough to touch. It doesn’t take much: just the voices of the New London Chamber Choir and a handful of musicians who believe in every note.

Repertoire

Andrew Norman – The Companion Guide to Rome

Feldman – Rothko Chapel

Symphonie Fantastique

Wed 26 Feb 2025, 7.30pm – Royal Festival Hall. Love, witchcraft, severed heads – it’s all here, painted in psychedelic colours by a supersized orchestra. Superb violinist Augustin Hadelich sets the scene with Britten’s powerful Violin Concerto, also including the world premiere of Sphinx by David Sawer.

Repertoire

David Sawer – Sphinx (world premiere)

Britten- Violin Concerto

Berlioz – Symphonie fantastique

. https://lpo.org.uk/tickets-and-discounts/

Tips for Packing Like a Pro for a Long-Distance Move

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Moving to a new place can be exciting, but packing for a long-distance move can feel overwhelming. Whether you are moving across the state or to a completely different part of the country, the process requires careful planning. From organizing your belongings to making sure everything arrives safely, there is a lot to think about. Without the right approach, packing can quickly become stressful, leading to last-minute rushing or misplaced items.

If you are moving from or to a busy city like Dallas, TX, the challenge can be even greater. The key to a smooth experience is learning how to pack effectively. Knowing what to prioritize and how to protect your belongings makes a big difference. In this blog, we will share practical tips to help you pack like a pro for a long-distance move.

Use High-Quality Packing Materials

Using the right packing materials can prevent damage to your belongings. For a long-distance move, sturdy boxes, packing tape, and cushioning materials like bubble wrap are essential. Thin or weak boxes can easily collapse under pressure, leading to broken items. If possible, invest in heavy-duty moving boxes designed for long trips.

For extra protection, wrap fragile items individually before placing them in boxes. Dishes, glassware, and electronics should be cushioned with packing paper or foam. Avoid leaving empty spaces in boxes, as this can cause items to shift during transport. When working with professional movers like Coleman long distance movers, having well-packed boxes makes loading and unloading much easier. Proper packing materials give you peace of mind knowing your items are secure.

Start Early and Make a Packing Plan

Waiting until the last minute to pack can lead to unnecessary stress. A long-distance move requires more organization than a local one. Give yourself at least a month to sort through your belongings and pack them properly. Creating a schedule will help you stay on track and prevent last-minute rushing. Start by packing items you use the least, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, or books. This way, you will not be scrambling to find things you need daily.

A packing plan will also help you identify what needs special care. Fragile items, electronics, and important documents should be packed separately and labeled clearly. Taking inventory of your items ensures that nothing is left behind. By planning ahead, you can also estimate how many boxes and packing materials you will need. Being organized saves time and effort in the long run.

Declutter Before You Pack

Packing is the perfect opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need. Moving unnecessary items will only add to the cost and effort. Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away. Clothing you have not worn in years, broken electronics, and old furniture may not be worth moving to your new home.

Decluttering makes unpacking easier and helps you start fresh in your new space. Consider selling valuable items online or holding a garage sale. Donating to local charities is also a great way to give back while lightening your load. By reducing the number of items you move, you will save money on packing supplies and moving services.

Label Boxes Clearly and Keep an Inventory

Labeling your boxes properly will make unpacking much easier. Instead of writing just “bedroom” or “bathroom,” include a brief description of the contents. For example, “bedroom – perfumesand accessories” will help you find what you need without opening multiple boxes. Use bold markers or printed labels for better visibility.

Keeping an inventory list will also help you keep track of your belongings. You can write it down on paper or use a phone app to list the items in each box. This is especially helpful for long-distance moves where multiple people may be handling your boxes. If anything goes missing, your inventory list will help you identify what needs to be replaced.

Pack a Moving Day Essentials Bag

Moving long-distance means you may not have immediate access to all your belongings once you arrive. Pack a small bag with essentials such as toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and important documents. This will prevent you from having to dig through boxes for necessary items on the first day in your new home.

You should also include phone chargers, snacks, and any paperwork related to the move. If you are traveling with children or pets, pack their essentials as well. Having these items within reach will make your first night in your new home much smoother.

Protect Fragile and Valuable Items

Long-distance moves involve a lot of handling, so fragile items need extra care. Wrap glassware, ceramics, and electronics in thick padding before packing them in boxes. It is best to use specialized boxes for delicate items, such as dish packs for plates and dividers for glassware.

For valuable items like jewelry, important documents, or family heirlooms, consider keeping them with you rather than packing them in the moving truck. If you must pack them, label the box as “fragile” and ensure it is well-padded. Taking these extra precautions will reduce the risk of damage during transit.

Optimize Space When Packing Boxes

Packing efficiently saves space and reduces the number of boxes needed. Instead of placing items randomly, pack strategically. Heavy items should go at the bottom of the box, while lighter items should be placed on top. This prevents breakage and keeps boxes balanced.

Use soft items like towels, blankets, or clothing to fill empty spaces and provide extra cushioning. Rolling clothes instead of folding them can also save space in your boxes. Avoid overfilling boxes, as this can make them too heavy to carry safely. By optimizing space, you will make the moving process more efficient.

In conclusion, packing for a long-distance move requires careful planning and organization. Starting early, using quality packing materials, and labeling your boxes properly can make the process less stressful. Decluttering before you pack helps lighten the load and makes unpacking easier in your new home. Keeping an essentials bag ensures you have important items within reach. Whether you are moving from Dallas or any other city, taking the right steps can make a difference. Packing efficiently and considering professional movers can save time and effort. By following these tips, you will be better prepared for a smooth and successful move.

Easy Home Updates That Improve Your Daily Life

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Did you know that most homeowners feel that small home improvements can significantly boost their comfort and convenience? In today’s busy world, it’s easy to overlook the little things that make daily life easier. But the truth is, even small updates can make a big difference. From improving your home’s lighting to adding smart storage solutions, these straightforward changes can save you time, reduce stress, and create a more pleasant living environment. You don’t need to spend a fortune or embark on a major renovation. 

With the right updates, you can enjoy a more functional, inviting home that works better for you and your family.

1. Refresh Your Walls with a New Coat of Paint

If your walls are looking worn or outdated, a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into your home. Light, neutral tones like beige, gray, or soft blue create a calming atmosphere, while bold accent walls can add personality without overwhelming a room. Even smaller projects, like repainting door frames or kitchen cabinets, can have a noticeable impact. High-quality paint finishes are also more durable and easier to clean, which is especially useful in high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens. With just a weekend’s effort, you can give your home a clean, refreshed look that feels brand new.

2. Create a Relaxing Bedroom Retreat for Better Sleep

Your bedroom should feel like a sanctuary—a place where you can relax, unwind, and get a good night’s sleep. If your space feels cluttered or uncomfortable, a few simple changes can make a big difference. Start with the most important element: the mattress. High-quality mattresses, such as Tempur-pedic Memory Foam Mattresses, can improve sleep quality, reduce aches and pains, and leave you feeling more refreshed each morning. They provide just the right amount of support and comfort by relieving pressure points. 

Blackout curtains are another easy update that blocks out light, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Adding soft, warm lighting with bedside lamps creates a calming atmosphere. With the right mattress and a few simple improvements, you can turn your bedroom into a restful retreat that supports better sleep and improves your overall well-being.

3. Maximize Storage with Smart Organization Solutions

Clutter can make even the most beautiful home feel stressful and chaotic. Fortunately, better storage solutions can help you stay organized and make the most of your available space. Start by identifying underused areas—like the space above doors, beneath stairs, or inside closets—and add shelves or cabinets there. Drawer organizers and dividers are simple tools that help keep small items neat and easy to find. In the kitchen, pull-out pantry shelves can make accessing ingredients much more convenient. In bedrooms, consider under-bed storage containers for seasonal clothing or extra bedding. By using clever organizational tools, you can reduce clutter, save time, and enjoy a more orderly home environment every day.

4. Improve Air Quality with Simple, Affordable Changes

The air quality in your home plays a big role in your family’s health and comfort. Fortunately, you don’t need a complex filtration system to make improvements. Regularly replacing HVAC filters is a simple yet effective way to reduce dust, allergens, and other particles. Adding houseplants like snake plants, peace lilies, or spider plants can also help filter the air naturally. Portable air purifiers are another practical addition, especially for bedrooms or living rooms where you spend a lot of time. Good air quality contributes to better sleep, fewer allergies, and a more pleasant home environment overall.

5. Update Hardware for an Instant Makeover

Small details can have a surprisingly big impact on your home’s appearance. Outdated or mismatched hardware on cabinets, drawers, and doors can make a space look tired. Swapping old knobs and pulls for modern designs is a quick, cost-effective way to refresh kitchens and bathrooms. Matte black, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze are popular options that work well with various styles. Updating hardware takes little time but can significantly improve the look and feel of a room. It’s one of those small upgrades that makes your home feel more polished without much effort.

6. Make Your Kitchen More Functional with Simple Changes

The kitchen is often the busiest room in the house, and small upgrades can make everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable. Start by assessing your workspace. If your countertops feel cluttered, install wall-mounted shelves or magnetic strips to free up space. Pull-out organizers in cabinets and pantries can help you find what you need without rummaging through stacks of items. Upgrading to a touchless faucet can also simplify cooking and cleaning. Even small changes, like adding under-cabinet lighting, can brighten your workspace and make meal preparation more convenient. A more functional kitchen saves time and reduces frustration during daily routines.

7. Upgrade Your Bathroom for More Comfort and Efficiency

Bathrooms might be small, but they have a big impact on daily routines. Simple updates can make them more functional and pleasant. Replacing an old showerhead with a high-pressure, water-saving model can improve your showers while reducing water use. Installing a mirrored cabinet adds extra storage space for toiletries without taking up additional room. Non-slip mats and updated fixtures enhance both safety and appearance. If the bathroom lighting is too harsh, switch to softer bulbs to create a more relaxing atmosphere. These quick changes can turn your bathroom into a more comfortable, efficient space for your morning and evening routines.

8. Enhance Your Outdoor Space for Daily Relaxation

Spending time outside, even just for a few minutes, can improve your mood and reduce stress. Creating an inviting outdoor area doesn’t require a big investment. Start with comfortable seating, like a simple patio set or a cozy hammock. Solar-powered lightscan illuminate pathways and make the space more enjoyable at night. Potted plants or a small herb garden can add color and fragrance to the area. If you have a deck or balcony, consider adding an outdoor rug or weather-resistant cushions to make the space more comfortable. An inviting outdoor area encourages you to step outside, breathe in fresh air, and take a break from your busy day.

Making your home more comfortable and functional doesn’t have to involve major renovations or high costs. Small, thoughtful updates—like improving lighting, organizing spaces, and upgrading hardware—can significantly enhance your daily life. These changes not only make your home more enjoyable but also save you time and reduce stress. The best part? Many of these projects can be completed in just a weekend. By choosing a few simple updates that fit your needs, you can create a space that feels more comfortable, efficient, and inviting every day.

Student Travel Tips for Saving Big While Exploring the World

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Traveling the world as a student can be one of the most exciting experiences in a young person’s life. It allows you to broaden your horizons, learn about different cultures, and build a range of skills that can benefit you in your future career. However, with airfare, accommodation, food, and sightseeing expenses to account for, travel can also be incredibly costly. Fortunately, there are plenty of strategies that can enable student travelers to save big while exploring the world. 

Smart Budgeting and Planning 

Before you embark on your journey, careful financial planning is a must. Set a budget for your trip, factoring in everything from flights and accommodations to meals and entertainment. Additionally, don’t forget to account for expenses such as travel health insurance for students, as it can protect you from potentially high medical costs in an unfamiliar place. Moreover, try to book your flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals and rates.

Embrace Student Discounts 

Being a student comes with plenty of perks. Many travel and tour companies offer student discounts to make exploring the world more affordable. All you need is a valid student ID to take advantage of these savings. The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is widely recognized and can provide discounts on travel, accommodation, and attractions in many countries worldwide.

Travel Off-peak 

Traveling off-peak can help to drastically reduce your costs. Avoid school holidays and popular vacation times to save on airfare and accommodation. You’ll be able to find better deals, potentially avoid the crowds, and enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Work Voluntarily

Volunteering while traveling is another fantastic way for students to save money while journeying abroad. Many programs provide free room and board in exchange for volunteer work. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, expand your skillset, and make a positive impact.

Choose Budget Accommodations 

Fancy hotels can be quite expensive. Instead, consider options like hostels that cater to budget-conscious travelers. Many of these accommodations offer shared facilities that can help cut costs. Alternatively, student travelers can also consider renting apartments and splitting the cost with friends or other travelers.

Prepare Your Own Meals 

Eating out can quickly deplete your travel budget. Try to book accommodations with kitchen facilities and cook your meals. Shopping at local markets is also an excellent way to save money while trying fresh, local ingredients. It’s a fantastic opportunity to interact with the locals, learn about traditional food, and enhance your cooking skills.

Public Transportation and Walking 

Relying heavily on taxis and ride-hailing services can quickly add up. To cut your costs down, familiarize yourself with the public transportation system. Buses and trains often provide inexpensive and efficient ways to explore local sites. Walking is free and allows you to see more of the city at a leisurely pace.

Travel Light

Last but not least, travel light. Extra baggage can result in hefty fees at the airport. Stick to the essentials and remember—you can always buy whatever else you need once you reach your destination.

Exploring the world as a student can be a rewarding venture, and with the right approach, it doesn’t have to drain your savings. By planning smartly, finding budget-friendly options, and even earning money while abroad—whether through remote work, freelancing, or local gigs—you can fund your travels and make the most of your adventure. So ready your backpack, book your flights, and set off on the journey of a lifetime without breaking the bank!

Columbia Community Association puts on a bit of a ‘do’ for Valentine’s Day and we were there – of course. Why would we not be – we love any opportunity to meet up with our Washington pals.

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Margaret and Dick trotted up to Washington and Brady Square on February 14th to share cake and coffee with their pals, and lose badly at the Valentine’s Quiz. Heavens, did you know that Cupid’s mother was Venus? You did? Heavens again. Try this: Shakespeare mentions Valentine’s Day in which of his plays? Hamlet. Ah ha, gotcha. We didn’t either. Try the anagrams. Eros is Rose. I got that, yes I did. And FTIG = Gift. Then I ground to a halt. Dick did better.

All was arranged by the fabulous couple who have dragged, chivvied and encouraged the CCA into its present amazing bustling self much helped by its updated home. Yes, Marion and Red Shoes Bob had done it again – a brilliant time was had by all though on this occasion it was Marion who was wearing the Red Shoes – she so likes to keep me on my toes.

It was a while since we had been up so there was plenty to catch up on. Joan nipped over and we talked a lot about Brady Square memories. My mum, little Annie Newsome as she was known as a child, would have laughed and laughed. Then we women chatted again, of course, and Red Shoes Bob and Dick discussed whatever it was men discuss, earnestly.

Then it was time to whizz to The Washington Arms near to The Old Hall, which was George Washington’s ancestral home, for our usual fish n chips. No-one does them quite like The Washington Arms then found ourselves trundling home to see two very miffed dogs who know they would LOVE to spend time at the CCA, and would behave – sort of, and just a chip or two at the pub. Is it too much to ask?

Marion shared with us that there is great news coming very soon about a digital hub which is to be set up at the CCA. More later, but we are all so very excited. How wonderful that would be. Frost Magazine will report. Marion and Bob are magic, they make things happen. Lucky lucky CCA.

https://www.facebook.com/columbiacommunityassociation

Diary of an Author In The Run Up To Publication.

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My first fiction book, Ember, came out in 2022. As a baby author my overwhelm was helped by being part of a debut group. I was so grateful to become a published author that I was naive. It was a big rollercoaster of emotions as I tried to make my way. Before And After The Book Deal by Courtney Maum was a lifesaver. Full of great advice. It’s like having someone to hold your hand through a tough journey.

I am two weeks out from publication day on my second book. This is not a drill. Where The Light is Hottest will be out on February 27th. I am excited and stressed all at the same time. I wrote a piece about the book for The Sunday Times. I am also doing a good number of events and podcast interviews in the future.

I don’t think people realise how much work goes into being a writer. There are endless trips to the post office (over £17 to post four books. Yikes), interviews and an endless amount of emails. Months and years can go into the publication of a book. I signed the contract in July 2023. I wrote the first draft of the book nine years ago. I entered it into The Good Housekeeping writing competition. I was upset when it didn’t win but it wasn’t ready then. Nowhere near it. I finally got the book where I wanted it to be by reading other books with the same energy.

Where The Light is Hottest, Catherine Yardley, Balavage

Where The Light is Hottest is based on my experiences in the film industry. It has lots of gossip and backstabbing. It has female friendship and is a feminist tale of survival and what it takes to achieve your dreams.. The main character, Natasha Jones, is Scottish and some of the book is set in Lanarkshire, Scotland. It is also set in London, New York, LA and Gstaad. It is dual timeline, told from the past as Natasha makes it, alongside her friends Scarlet and Claudia from drama school, and in the present as people try to bring her down. She is a famous, Oscar-winning, actress and dark forces are at work. Spreading rumours and sharing stories about her to Popbitch. If any of this sounds like your thing you can preorder here: https://tinyurl.com/Where-The-Light-is-Hottest 

I will be writing a lot about author life. So keep an eye out for more.