MILLY JOHNSON ON WINNING THE RNA’S OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

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Sunday Times Bestselling Author Milly Johnson on winning this prestigious Outstanding Achievement Award and what the Romantic Novelists’ Association means to her. 

I cannot tell you how delighted I was to receive an email telling me that I was being given the RNA Outstanding Achievement Award this year – this very special 60th anniversary year too.  It was one of those ‘pinch-yourself’ moments: how was it that me, a northern bird with no industry connections, who always wanted to be an author but never really thought it would be possible, was getting this accolade? It made me quite reflective of all the years between those moments and I realised

Credit: Chris Sedgewick

how much hard work I’d done to be published and stay published. I was never under any illusion that getting a book out there would bring me instant fame and fortune but still, there was never anything I wanted to do as much as hold a book, written by me with my name on the cover. And here I am published, and actually selling a few copies as well.  I never get blasé about it, it’s a thrill every time to see my name on a new book, to see it out there in the wild.

I have grafted, gone above and beyond the call of duty as you do for something you want with all the fibre of your being. I remember reading an early Carole Matthews book, loving her work, looking up to her, wanting to be published like she was, promoting her to status of goddess in my head and then a few years later she was my pal and we had the same agent. I remember well that longing to be ‘one of the chosen’ and so I can easily put myself in the shoes of those who are looking at me and imagining themselves published one day.  If they want it hard enough, and put the work in, and if one agent rejects them, and they move on to the next never taking a no as the final answer, then one day that call will come to say they’ve got a deal. Then the hard work begins. I used to equate that first publishing deal with the pinnacle of Everest, but it’s not even Base Camp. And often in this job, writing the book is the easiest part!

I am so looking forward to the evening. I have many friends there shortlisted for an award that it is sure to be a jolly one, and my plus one for the evening is my best novelist pal Debbie Johnson, because you need someone who understands the intricacies of this crazy job, to trust with all your niggles and to act as a sounding board when you feel like screaming because you’ve had the worst review ever written by anyone. And you are there for them when the reverse happens. A bit of kindness in this game goes a long, long way. And it’s always the best Karma to pay it forward.

I joined the RNA when I was published, not before. I was quite adamant that’s the way I’d do it and what a misguided fool I was! Had I joined before I would have benefitted from so much inspiration and guidance, I would have had so many more writer friends to mix with rather than do it all alone. I missed out on help and fun and a lot of Prosecco. But join I did eventually and it was one of the best investments I made becoming part of the association. I encourage any other writer not to follow in my footsteps as far as my stubbornness goes, but to join as soon as you can and take advantage of the wealth of wisdom its ‘fabulousness of authors’ has to share.

 

My One True North by Milly Johnson is published on 5th March by Simon and Schuster and is available to pre-order now. 

 

Burberry Handbags: A Symbol of Timeless Aristocracy

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Among the many brands offering designer bags and accessories, Burberry handbags stand out for their remarkable originality and elegance.

With an ambition to revolutionize clothing and make them more suitable for the cold and rainy British weather, Burberry was founded in 1856. It didn’t take long for the brand’s innovative founder, Thomas Burberry to invent gabardine – a hardwearing, breathable and waterproof fabric that was patented in 1888. Within the next few decades, the brand had won over people of all types with their coats and managed to create a huge presence in London.

After winning multiple royal warrants over the years for their weatherproof coats, today, Burberry is a global behemoth in the luxury fashion industry. They offer an array of sophisticated clothes and accessories for men, women, and children. Among the many different accessories, Burberry handbags are very popular for their combination of timeless elegance, versatility, and a design philosophy that showcases the refined, British taste.

A Great Variety of Accessories and Handbags

Not only coats and other fashionable clothes, but Burberry have also been offered a comprehensive fashion solution since the early 1900s. In addition to the elegant outfits, the brand also offers an array of expertly crafted accessories that includes jewelry, sunglasses, scarves, and most importantly, bags for both women and men.

Besides, when it comes to bags, Burberry has an abundance of options ranging from the iconic women’s bags renowned for their timeless essence to the trendy side bags, backpacks, fanny packs, etc. For women, there are also cross body bags, title bags, tote bags, shoulder bags, as well as the Burberry signature LOLA bags and Belt bags, etc. Not to mention the remarkably functional, yet highly fashionable baby changing bags for new parents.

There is no shortage of men’s bag options either, with Burberry offering a great variety of options that includes bum bags, briefcases, messenger bags, pouches, and washbags, etc. Whereas, the Burberry backpacks are stylish, comfortable, and versatile enough to be used by both the explorers and everyday hustlers.

Originality and the Unique Charm of Burberry Handbags

As the inventor of gabardine, it is obvious that the Burberry handbags would look and feel very unique than the rest of the luxury fashion brands. While they are predominantly British in their soft colors, minimalist approach, and impeccable detailing; the iconic women’s bags from Burberry are universal as an emblem of femininity and style. No matter which particular type of bag you prefer, Burberry has what it takes to satisfy people of all ages in accordance with their variety of tastes.

For example, the minimalists find their small grained leather bags very appealing for their golden detailing, as well as the functional buckles and zippers; while the young women love the vibrant, printed canvas bags as well as the bags made with genuine python leather. Moreover, the bold bucket bags with shoulder straps are a true symbol of Burberry, which can help anyone to stand out from the crowd with ease.

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SISTER SCRIBES’ READING ROUND UP: FEBRUARY

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Cass:

Having loved Kitty Wilson’s debut novel, The Cornish Village School: Breaking the Rules, I already knew what to expect from the pen of this talented author: relatable characters, a fabulous Cornish setting, lots of emotion and laughs-a-plenty.

The Cornish Village School: Second Chances is the story of Sylvie, who’s had to give up her dreams in the past and is also doing her best to recover from a recent loss whilst being the best mum she can be to her little son, Sam (adorable!) and Alex, who’s come to Penmenna with his adopted daughter, Ellie (adorable and hilarious!), to help her escape the horrors of her past and to also take a break from the pressures of his job.

Surround these two new characters with the regulars from the first book, Rosy and Matt, still cosily besotted with each other; Chase and Angelina (who’s still weird, but perhaps a bit mellower… sometimes); the controlling Marion Marksharp (still loving that name), and you have a fun read, layered with depth, as both Sylvie and Alex reveal their past wounds, at first to themselves and then to each other.

A fabulous second novel from Kitty Wilson, who writes rom-com at its very best.

 

Jane:

Given most of my novels have a time-slippy element it’s surprising I haven’t read Daphne du Maurier’s The House on the Strand before. In truth I only picked it up because my talks partner, Sue Kittow, has written a book of walks based around du Maurier’s work and we’ve been asked to speak about the author to a local group.

From the first chapter I was hooked. The book dates from the 1960s and the protagonist is Dick Young, a man who can only be described as having a mid life crisis, and is lent a house in Cornwall for the summer by an old university friend – on the condition he helps him with an experiment. This involves taking a drug which transports him to the early fourteenth century, a brutal time by any standards, and even as a helpless bystander he becomes emotionally involved in the lives of lords, ladies and serfs living around Tywardreath then.

I enjoyed this well crafted book and alternately racing to finish it and throwing it down and stomping off yelling “oh, you stupid man!” at Dick. Although the writing was so vivid I travelled back to medieval times, the contemporary story of a man struggling to make sense of his life – and in so doing putting his family’s happiness at great risk – gripped me even more. Through the lens of time Dick could be seen as a selfish bastard but this book is actually a heart-wrenching portrayal of what addiction can do to the body and mind. As relevant today as it was in the 1960s.

Set firmly in the past – this time the early nineteenth century – is To Have and To Hold, another great book from Valerie Holmes. Her Yorkshire setting is so beautifully drawn I could see it in my mind’s eye as I read, and I love the way she draws her characters from outside ‘the ton’ – it makes them seem so much more real, somehow.

This is a great adventure/love story that begins with a runaway mill boy and ends… well, that would be telling, wouldn’t it? Poldark fans should love it. Valerie’s new book, In Sickness and in Health, is available for pre-order now.

 

CAN YOU HELP FIND BRITAIN’S OLDEST FEMALE WW2 VETERAN?

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In January, Britain’s oldest female WW2 veteran died. Anne Robson had served as a physical training instructor in the Army, and had reached the grand age of 108 when she passed away in Scotland.

The Women’s Royal Army Corps Association has since decided to launch a campaign to ‘Help us find our Oldest A.T.S. Veteran’ – #FindOurOATS – www.FindOurOATS.org – to ensure that the contribution of female veterans during WW2 is duly and appropriately honoured. Afterall, their contribution helped to carve out new roles for women in society as a whole.

This year – 2020 – will mark 75 years since the end of WW2. As such, women (as well as men) who served must be remembered. In the words of retired Col Alison Brown, “The purpose of the ‘Find Our OATS’ campaign is to find the oldest surviving female WW2 veteran to record her experiences for the purpose of future generations: her legacy should not be forgotten!”

Betty Webb MBE, is also backing the campaign. She is the 97 year old a member of the WRAC Association (charity) who helped to crack enemy codes at Bletchley Park during WW2. She notes: “I am very proud of all the achievements of the thousands of other women who joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service to serve in WW2. We must remember the contribution of these  ladies.”

Over 345,000 women served in the ATS (Auxiliary Territorial Service) from 1938 –1949. Ahead of the VE Day (8th May) and VJ Day (15th Aug) celebrations that are being planned around the world, the charity wishes to ensure that the focus of these anniversaries includes female veterans. These women may have served for just 1 day, or up to 11 years in the ATS between 1938 and 1949. However, many such women emigrated to countries such as the USA, Canada and Australia, after the hostilities ended. This is why spreading the message about #FindOurOATS internationally is so important.

The oldest British female WW2 veteran may well not be a WRAC Association member. Furthermore, the charity in no way wishes to put ‘pressure’ on this lady, once she is found. Instead, it simply wishes to help identify her, so that in due time, it can appropriately honour and champion her pioneering service as the only charity that specifically supports women who serve, or have served, in the British Army.

Women only need to have service for one day or more in the British Army to be eligible to apply for benefits available via the WRAC Association. As a vibrant charity, it has two main objectives: providing comradeship, friendship and support – plus – distributing grants to former servicewomen (1917-1992) who are in need of financial assistance. In 2016 the charity awarded over £220K in benevolence grants for items such as white goods, and services such as care home top-up fees and stairlifts.

You can help to find the oldest surviving female WW2 veteran by spreading the word about the campaign: Go to the website www.FindOurOATS.org and/or share its social media content using the hashtag – #FindOurOATS.

The WRAC has also printed a broad spectrum of stories of women who have served in the British Army since 1917.  The book is called “Wonderful Women 100 Book” and is available to buy on the WRAC website.  https://wonderful-women.org/product/wonderful-women-100-book/

Best places to visit in the US for couples

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There are some couple’s goals that a lot of couples love to carry out some of which include travelling around the world together. There is always a special feeling when you explore different places around the world with your partner. Although finding a perfect place that will suit your different interests is another problem and a lot of couples tend to cancel several trips because they could not come up with a perfect destination. To solve this problem, you need to write a list of places that could be considered. You should know that several places may be suitable for a couple’s trip. Also, your mission will determine your choice of destination. There are other factors that you should consider as they will do a long way in determining how your vacation will go and some of these factors include economy, cash at hand, different attractions present, level of development, and season of the year. The U.S is one of the best places you could consider when it comes to vacation. The country has several cities and towns that bring different people from different part of the world. There are numerous sightseeing locations and landmarks that will make your trip a memorable one. Also, there are standard hotels, good restaurants, and different parks that will make you want to visit the country again. The good part of visiting the U.S is that you will be entertained by different events no matter when and where you are visiting; there are perfect locations for couples and singles. You will be the one to choose where you want as several amazing places will suit your interest. You will also meet different people that have come 2 explore some of the amazing things in the country; therefore, always feel free to explore the US maximally. Below are some of the places you should consider as a couple visiting the U.S;

New York City – this is one of the cities to consider whenever you are planning to explore the U.S with your partner. It is one of the most visited cities in the country because of the various landmarks and sightseeing locations that invite people to do City. You will always enjoy your time because you will be entertained by various events ranging from Sports, music, and other exacting events. There are amazing restaurants that serve different American dishes and other dishes from every part of the world making it very easy for visitors to find their local foods. To enjoy your stay here, you should explore every part of the city if you have the time.

You and your partner must be found worthy before you can get access to enter the U.S at the port of entry. A perfect way to solve this is by researching all the documents needed by individuals traveling to the states. The documents may be different based on one’s mission in the country. Getting useful information before applying for any of the documents is essential as well because, without accurate information, you may get the wrong documents which may prevent you and your partner from going to the US. To travel to the states, you will need the esta only if you are from one of the Visa waiver program countries and if not you, will need an American visa. ESTA travel can play a vital role of a visa only if one is eligible for an ESTA. Therefore, you should confirm your eligibility to know if you are eligible to apply for the document. The advantage of being eligible for an esta is that you will be exempt from the visa interview and the stress of applying for a visa. There are several places you could visit in the US if you are with the right documents. The international passport is another crucial document that you must possess right from your home country. This will contain all your personal information needed to enter the U.S at the port of entry. You should know that the US does not joke with criminals and crimes; thus, any mistake from you could lead to deportation. Always be a good representative of your country and never allow anything to put you in trouble. Carry out the ESTA usa check before applying for an American visa as this could save you a lot of money and stress. Try to find out if you will need other documents like the police report, the driver’s license and other essential documents to be on a safer side

Savannah – this is a city in the state of Georgia, a good destination for couples that fall in love with nature. There are different species of plants that make the city more beautiful. You will find different restaurants that provide top-notch services of which you can enjoy as well. Try to explore every part of the city with your partner to save good memories together.

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Staying Healthy Part 3: What I have been doing this week

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sweet potato, salad, health, diet, weight loss,
Losing weight and getting fit is hard, but sustaining it is just as tough. It is half term and there has been chocolate and fizzy drinks. Oh dear. All is not lost as I have been keeping up with my healthy habits and focusing on my goals. The occasional treat is fine. Or when you have two children under four, and no childcare, daily…. I jest.

My last chest X ray was a week and a half ago and my lungs are completely clear now. I also have no infection markers. It was a happy day but my doctor said that when young people get pneumonia it hits them harder and it will take me four-to-six weeks to get to my base line. So I have not been drinking alcohol as it weakens your immune system.
I have also been:

Making sure I stay hydrated. The negative effects of dehydration are underestimated. Drink more water!

Doing yoga with Adriene. I have long eschewed yoga, finding it too boring. I prefer to sweat and have a big calorie burn as I love food. I do know yoga has its benefits and I have decided to give it another go. Yoga with Adriene is fantastic. She is a blogger who does a free thirty day yoga course. I feel so relaxed when I do it. I also forgot how hard yoga can be. You need strength and a strong core. I have not exercised in over eight weeks because I had the pneumonia and I had barely exercised before that because I had my surgery, but I am slowly building up my strength. This course is perfect for that.

I have also been working on having my five-a-day. I have long felt inferior to people who manage to eat their five-a-day easily but I am good at it now. I usually add avocado to my toast, blueberries to my porridge and as much veg as possible to my supper. I also eat apples and satsumas throughout the day. Little things make a difference.

I have also not been forgetting my brain and I am learning a new language.

What have you been doing this week?

The curtain opens on the debut novel: The Variety Girls by Tracy Baines Review by Annie Clarke

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the-variety-girls-tracy-baines

 

Tracy Baines will be familiar to many of you who have loved her short stories in women’s magazines such as The People’s Friend and Woman’s Weekly, so what better news than to hear that she decided  – roll of drums – to try her hand at sagas.

So what about The Variety Girls – her debut novel, published by Ebury Press? Is it a good move? Will we be impatient to turn the pages?

I should darned well think so, the woman has smashed it.

Another roll of drums –  an excellent saga series has begun, and what better subject than one with which Tracy Baines is familiar.

As a teenager Tracy  worked summer seasons at an end of pier theatre: shows, pantomimes – oh yes she did – and in time became Assistant Stage Manager, even meeting her husband there when he was appearing with the Nolan Sisters – he’s behind you …

All right, enough of the panto stuff.

But I have to share with you that I have had a tour around that theatre, and eaten battered plaice and chips at the restaurant. It was so lovely, I long to go again. The theatre, the stage,  the footlights… I could feel a song coming on, but was dragged out before I could humiliate myself. Oh, what a glorious world in which to set a novel. One of endeavour, doubt, and always, ‘the show must go on’.

So bring on The Variety Girls.

This heart warming saga is set on the brink of the 2nd World War, and circumstances have dictated that Jessie Delaney, her mum, Grace, and young brother Eddie, up sticks and move in with Jessie’s aunt and uncle. To call these relatives the sober-sides, the  ‘sucked a lemon’ brigade is to understate the case. Life is toxic, and miserable, but our Jessie is aspirational, she determines to escape onto the stage in her father’s footsteps.

Can she pull it off, especially as it means leaving her mum and brother, and what about Harry the boyfriend?

If she does leave, how can she rescue her mother and brother? Will she be the successful singer she craves to be? Will she still see Harry? Where will she live? Will she make friends?

So many questions, and to find the answers, and enter this razzmatazz world, you will have to read this well-researched song and dance of a novel in great gulps as I did, all the while so wanting Jessie to pull it off, just as the author most certainly has: an evocative, busy, entertaining read, which has well balanced touches of humour, vying with angst, and of course, more than a dollop of tension. Bravo, bravo.

But be warned, you’ll end up buying sparkly knickers, and dancing to the big band sound around the kitchen – oh yes you will.

The Variety Girls by Tracy Baines. pb, ebook and audio. Available from Amazon.co.uk WH Smith, and ASDA

 

 

 

In Charley’s Memory supports young people. Natalie Jayne Peake – West Country Correspondent – learns more about it

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image courtesy of In Charley’s Memory

In Charley’s Memory is a local charity based in Highbridge, Somerset which works to support young people.

So who is Charley?

ICM gave permission for this statement to be used in this Frost Magazine article:  Charley struggled with his mental health throughout his adolescence and in 2014 it all became too much and Charley took his own life. After Charley’s death his mum wanted to do something to raise awareness and reduce the stigma that is attached to mental health. So she founded In Charley’s Memory, known locally as ICM. Charley’s friends and family began raising money and supporting young people. In Charley’s Memory received official charity status in March 2015 (registration number 1160805) and since then has moved into premises in Burnham-on-Sea, with a team of volunteers and staff. In the 4 years ICM has been established the charity has grown considerably. 

Natalie Jayne Peake talked to a representative of ICM  and learned more about the crucial help the charity provides for those in need.

Tell me about Charley, what was he like?

Charley was a loveable rogue with a really cheeky sense of humour. He was very popular at school, had a large group of friends and was mad on sports. Charley adored his family and was very protective of his mum Jo.

ICM received charity status in March 2015, what services do you offer and who can use them?

Predominantly we offer 1:1 counselling to young people 11-25, aside from this we run drop ins at schools across Somerset, this enables young people at school to come and speak to us about anything that is troubling them. If they need further support we can arrange this or signpost them. We work a lot with other organisations such as Hinkley C, (we work with their apprentices) YMCA Dulverton and Sanctuary Housing, raising awareness around mental health and mental wellbeing. We do not have specific criteria to access support at ICM. If a young person can get to our office we will offer them counselling irrespective of where in Somerset they have come from.

What does 2020 have in store for ICM?

This year we have launched our over 26’s affordable counselling programme after becoming aware that there was a lack of affordable counselling in the area. We are working with The Space in Cheddar to develop a high standard training programme that we can deliver to in schools to help parents/carers/family members who need more support or understanding of young people’s struggles.

If someone is struggling with their mental health, how can they contact you?

They can call the office, 01278557490 or if they feel uncomfortable talking to someone on the phone they can email us at enquiries@incharleysmemory.co.uk

How can people get involved with fundraising?

We run events during the year and we are always looking for volunteers to come along and help us. We are so lucky that our community supports and understands what it is we are doing, it is their fundraising efforts that have helped us keep the doors open and enabled us to grow as quickly as we have. Any one wishing to raise funds for us just needs to give us a call or email.

Tell me more about your Ambassador scheme?

It is so important to us that young people are involved in the charity, because you cannot successfully run a young persons charity without listening to the opinions of young people. So each year we have a team of ambassadors (ages 14-18) that come on board, they receive some training from us on mental health awareness and then spend 12 months helping us at events, raising awareness of the charity, and importantly giving us input on what we do and how we do it 

How can others help spread the word about ICM ?

Like our facebook page, follow us on twitter. But importantly talk about mental health, ask your friend, neighbour family member, if they are ok, we always say to people you do not need to be qualified to care about someone’s mental health, and if you find out they are not ok then please signpost them to us.

We aim to get to the kids before the kids get to crisis, so if you know a person who is just struggling or going through a difficult time at the moment they may benefit from having someone to talk to, you do not need a diagnosis to come and see a member of the team.

A link to more information: In Charley’s Memory