Dark in Death By J.D Robb | Recommended Reads

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The latest book in the popular series. Perfect for fans of crime fiction. 

There’s always a reason for murder. But when a young actress is killed in a swift and violent attack at a cinema screening, that reason is hard to fathom – even for Lieutenant Eve Dallas and her team.

It’s only when bestselling crime writer Blaine DeLano arrives at the precinct that the shocking truth is revealed. Someone is recreating the murder scenes from her latest series, book by book. With six more novels left in the series, Eve now knows how the killer will strike next. But why has DeLano been targeted? Could her abusive husband be involved?

As fiction is transformed into bloody reality, Eve will need all her skill and experience to solve this unique case. Luckily for her, husband Roarke happens to be a fan of DeLano’s work. And he’s more than happy to work side by side with his brilliant wife – no matter how dark things become..

Dark in Death By J.D Robb is available here.

THE BUSINESS OF BOOKS: THE DREADED S WORD

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Jane Cable tries to pick out the positives of writing a synopsis

Having completed the edits on one manuscript and having rescued my rights for Another You from Endeavour Press, this month has been all about considering submissions – which in most cases involves the bane of my writing life – the synopsis.

I’m not talking about the sort of synopsis you use as you create your novel, or to check structure and record plot points as you go along; I’m talking about that big, scary, one-and-only-chance-to-get-it-right document which accompanies your submission to agents and publishing houses. The synopsis as sales tool – in particular the short version – fills me with dread in a way no other blank page can.

This time, I thought I’d cracked it. Fellow RNA member and Choc Lit author Lynda Stacey very kindly sent me her template and using it made perfect sense. Like me, Lynda writes romantic suspense and has to shoehorn complex plots into a single page. I was happy with what I’d written, but when I showed it to Claire Dyer (an editor as well as an author) she drove a coach and horses through it. Clearly I need to improve.

So, what have I learnt from this sorry state of affairs.

A template to follow is really, really useful

When you are staring at a blank piece of paper there is nothing more helpful than something which lists the paragraphs you need and gives you some guidance about what to put in each. It helps you to have a method. For my short synopsis I set out the beginning of the book, then the end of the book, and filled in the middle last. It was also brilliant for pulling out the main plot strands and that focussed me through my final edits.

You’re going to need more than one carefully tailored synopsis

I’m concentrating on the direct submissions route for my novels and am hand picking the publishers I think would be right for them and who I’m really keen to work with. I don’t mean to sound arrogant, but I’m quite comfortable being an indie author if I can’t land that special deal. But what struck me when I was making my shortlist was that they all want something different; everything from a 3,000 word essay to a two paragraph blurb. It’s so important to tailor what you send to their requirements and to show you understand where your book would sit in their portfolio.

A synopsis is not a blurb It may be a selling document, but it’s not a blurb.

I was delighted when my first choice publisher asked for a blurb as I find them so much easier to write. Of course there are similarities – both have to grab the person reading it – but in different ways. A blurb entices, teases, reveals just enough. A synopsis tells the whole story. No surprises. The most important thing to bear in mind is that a publisher or agent will be thinking about how they can sell the story – a reader will be using the blurb to decide if they want to buy it.

Not everyone you submit to will need a synopsis

Yes. Really. But don’t use it as a cop out or to select who you submit to. Most agents require a synopsis, but the length varies. So will most publishers, but some have other priorities, such as finding out about your author brand – they will rely on your manuscript to see whether your book is worth taking on. You will need to become expert in selling your novel in all sorts of ways but one thing is certain: the better you become at all of them the more chance you have of landing a deal.

 

Freeze away your skin tags with NEW Cryotag

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skin tags, get rid

Skin tags are annoying and embarrassing. I tried the innovative Cryotag and it worked well. I was impressed. I would recommend it to anyone who has skin tags. It is easy to use even for me who is rubbish at health stuff.

 

NEW INNOVATIVE TREATMENT AVAILABLE AT BOOTS

Highly Commended at The Beauty Awards 2017, in the Beauty Innovation of the Year category, Cryotag is the NEW fast and effective skin tag remover. Developed by world-leading innovators with 20 years’ experience in cryotherapy and skin tag removal.

Using technology trusted by doctors and dermatologists, Cryotag is a clinically proven new treatment. Within seconds of the applicator being applied to the skin tag the base will begin to turn white, signalling the skin tag has been frozen. This method will instantly freeze the core of the skin tag and the skin tag will fall off in as little as one treatment, usually within 2 weeks. No more expensive trips to the dermatologist, or risky or unpleasant DIY methods!

Skin tags affect up to half of the population, and are small pieces of soft skin raised or hanging off the skin. The skin tags often appear in areas of the body where clothing is likely to rub such as around your neck, chest and under arms. Even though skin tags are very common, they can be irritating and leave individuals feeling self-conscious.

Removing skin tags with Cryotag is a fast and easy 4 step process:

  1. Begin the treatment by firmly twisting the precision-tip applicator into the bottom of the cap.
  2. Insert the applicator and cap into the Cryotag canister. Press the cap down for 3 seconds and you will hear a hissing sound.
  3. Remove the applicator and cap and hold the tip facing down for 15 seconds to allow the applicator to reach the correct temperature.
  4. Grasp the skin tag with tweezers provided and gently pull it away for 40 seconds. Apply the applicator to the stalk of the skin tag.

Most skin tags will fall off within two weeks of the first application, leaving you with a healthy-looking skin.

The Cryotag skin tag remover is available in Boots stores and online at Boots.com.  Also available from Amazon.co.uk If your local Boots store doesn’t stock Cryotag, they can order it for next day delivery.

Cryotag RRP £21.95. Contains 12 applicators for up to 12 skin tag treatments

Cryotag is intended only for the removal of skin tags. If you are unsure whether it is a skin tag, always consult the GP first. There are also clear guidelines on the Cryotag website and packaging.

 

 

Applied Mathematics: A Very Short Introduction By Alain Goriely

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applied mathematicsFrost highly recommends The Very Short Introductions series. This one is Applied Mathematics. It tells you all you need to know about applied mathematics and its place in the world. Easy to read and engaging. This great book could be read in one sitting; making you an instant expert.

Mathematics is playing an increasing important role in society and the sciences, enhancing our ability to use models and handle data. While pure mathematics is mostly interested in abstract structures, applied mathematics sits at the interface between this abstract world and the world in which we live. This area of mathematics takes its nourishment from society and science and, in turn, provides a unified way to understand problems arising in diverse fields.

This Very Short Introduction presents a compact yet comprehensive view of the field of applied mathematics, and explores its relationships with (pure) mathematics, science, and engineering. Explaining the nature of applied mathematics, Alain Goriely discusses its early achievements in physics and engineering, and its development as a separate field after World War II. Using historical examples, current applications, and challenges, Goriely illustrates the particular role that mathematics plays in the modern sciences today and its far-reaching potential.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Applied Mathematics: A Very Short Introduction By Alain Goriely is available here.

Dark In Death By J.D. Robb | Recommended Reads

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Dark in Death j d robbThe latest in the popular series is out now.

There’s always a reason for murder. But when a young actress is killed in a swift and violent attack at a cinema screening, that reason is hard to fathom – even for Lieutenant Eve Dallas and her team.

It’s only when bestselling crime writer Blaine DeLano arrives at the precinct that the shocking truth is revealed. Someone is recreating the murder scenes from her latest series, book by book. With six more novels left in the series, Eve now knows how the killer will strike next. But why has DeLano been targeted? Could her abusive husband be involved?

As fiction is transformed into bloody reality, Eve will need all her skill and experience to solve this unique case. Luckily for her, husband Roarke happens to be a fan of DeLano’s work. And he’s more than happy to work side by side with his brilliant wife – no matter how dark things become…

Dark In Death By J.D. Robb is available here.

 

Here we go, some fabulous wines for Easter, but let’s not forget Mother’s Day

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We’ve had a grand time tasting some of these wines – just for you. Well, someone has to do it.

Left Field Albarino 2017

This white wine is just right for spring, ,and yes, it is on the way: the days are getting longer, the sun is warmer… So buy in the daffodils and sip this wine, with its hint of citrus, melon and peach. It’s classy and will bring on the sunshine.

RRP: £14.55

Stockists: Wine Rack, Cambridge Wine Merchants, Vino Wines, Taurus Wines, Sissinghurst Wines, Campbell Moore, www.nzhouseofwine.co.uk

Also try:

Jean-Luc Colombo Collines de Laure Blanc 2016

This white wine is a lovely fusion of regions where the Provençal grape Rolle (aka Vermentino) joins three Rhône varieties in a textured,  with a good body and always elegant white.

It’s as fresh as spring, and we tasted just a hint of fennel, white peach and pear.

Try it with grilled white meats on Mother’s Day, which is a meal you could cook for mum.

RRP: £14.20

Stockists: Dalling & Co Wines, R Campbell and Sons, The Solent Cellar, Apero Wine Services, B J R Hanby

Hancock & Hancock Fiano 2017

We love a Fiano in the Frost office, because it oozes tropical climes somehow with its aroma of nectarine and lemon, but it has a dry and fresh palate. Really good as an aperitif on a lengthening spring evening, or would go well with Asian cuisine, spicy dishes or seafood.

RRP: £14.80

Stockists: Luvians Bottleshop, The Wine Reserve, Vino Wines, Wine Utopia

Try these too:

Cune Barrel Fermented Blanco 2016

A friend loves a good white Rioja so this is one for her. 100% Viura with fresh citrus flavours and toasty richness. Transport yourself to the Spanish sun pairing this with delicious fish or shellfish.

RRP: £10.15

Stockists: Co-op, Sissinghurst Wines, Ellies Cellar, Winestore Distribution, Aitken Wines, B J R Hanby

 Kleine Zalze Vineyard Selection Chenin Blanc 2017

A rich Chenin with a gently tropical nose of honeysuckle, guava and pineapple with fresh green apple and quince. The palate is dry yet rich with tropical fruits and subtle oak and the acidity keeps it all fresh and balanced.

Pair this elegant wine with goat’s cheese or smoked fish for a great spring match.

RRP: £10.60

Stockists: Roberts & Speight, Mitchells Vintners, Fenwick, Vino Wines

Villa Maria Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2017

A Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc bursting with aromas of passionfruit, melon, nettles and fresh herbs. The palate is powerful, displaying vibrant grapefruit notes.

Rustle up some salmon and salads to go with the wine for a delicious spring supper.

RRP: £13.85

Stockists: Majestic Wine, Margiotta, Village Wines, Holborns, North and South Wines, Hoults Wine Merchants, Hailsham Cellars, www.nzhouseofwine.co.uk

International Women’s Day | The Wine Women

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What could be more fulfilling than a career in wine? For many it would be a dream career. Today is International Women’s Day so let these women show you how.
Vitalie Taittinger – Champagne Taittinger
1) What advice would you give to women considering or beginning a career in wine?
I would tell them to consider this choice as a life choice! The way of getting into wine is very long. You have many things to learn and to understand. It really has to be a passion! It is a fabulous world, working with nature, time and people, it is very exciting!
2) What is your ultimate wine and food pairing? My ultimate food pairing would maybe be a flute of Prélude Grands Crus with oysters…the minerality of this Champagne, its pureness and its energy really does match the saltiness and texture of oysters. I love the simplicity!

Taittinger Prélude Grand Crus NV, RRP £54.35, Stockists: Majestic Wine, JohnLewis.com Frost recommended. 


Laure Colombo – Winemaker at Colombo et Fille
1) What has been a key/memorable moment in your career so far?
The first time someone said “Jean-Luc Colombo is the father of Laure Colombo” and not being recognized as the “daughter of”, but for myself!
2) Who has inspired you in your career?
Jean-Michel Comme from Pontet-Canet! He taught me the fact that the vines are living beings. It needs to breathe, to feed from the earth, in order to open up.

Jean-Luc Colombo Saint Péray Belle de Mai 2016, RRP £23.25, Stockists: Pennistone Court Wine Cellars, Hedonism Drinks Frost Recommended.

Eva de Benito – Winemaker at Viña Real
1) What has been a key/memorable moment in your career so far?
The moment that I started working for CVNE and managing Viña Real, one of the emblematic brands of Rioja.
2) If you could live in another woman’s shoes for a day, whose would you choose?
In general, I admire women who, with their passion and willingness to improve, have been able to break myths and barriers – not only in the wine trade but also in any profession or aspect in life.

Viña Real Gran Reserva 2011, RRP £27.70, Stockists: Hailsham Cellars, D.Byrne & Co, Planet of the Grapes, The Whalley Wine Shop, Luvians Bottleshop, Wimbledon Wine C llears, The Solent Cellar, Old Chapel Cellars, Taurus Wines

Maria Larrea – Chief Winemaker at C.V.N.E
1) What advice would you give to women considering or beginning a career in wine?
It is important to surround yourself with a good work team, observe the vineyard, study about other viticultural areas of the world. In short, always learn, enjoy work and always try to make the best wine.
2) What has been a key/memorable moment in your career so far?
Undoubtedly the best moment was the award we received with Imperial Gran Reserva vintage 2004 as the best wine in the world for the Wine Spectator. It really was a prize for the long history of Imperial, more than 100 years as a wine of great quality.

Imperial Reserva 2012, RRP £26.00, Stockists: Majestic Wine, Wine Rack, Coop, Waitrose.com, Tesco.com


Helen Morrison – Chief Marlborough Winemaker at Villa Maria
1) What has been a key/memorable moment in your career so far?
As a winemaker 2017 was the hardest vintage I have ever experienced, so the reward of seeing the quality of the wines we managed to craft from this challenging season is truly memorable.
2) If you could live in another woman’s shoes for a day, whose would you choose?
Right now in New Zealand it would be fascinating to be Jacinda Adern for a day, as our recently elected Prime Minister, the youngest prime minister in 150 years, un-married, and a strong supporter of women’s rights and now she has recently announced her first pregnancy. What a great series of firsts to be experiencing, but also some very interesting challenges and adversaries she must be facing (even in this modern era).
Villa Maria Private Bin Riesling 2017, RRP £10.95, Stockists: Majestic Wine, Wine Rack

Catherine Corbeau Mellot – President of Joseph Mellot
1) What advice would you give to women considering or beginning a career in wine?
You will need to be very strong and be able to face lots of challenges. Passion and the wish to be successful are key. Go for it!
2) What is your ultimate wine and food pairing?
A two-month Crottin de Chavignol (our local goat cheese, which is AOP.) with a glass of Sancerre la Chatellenie!

Sancerre La Rabault Rosé 2015, RRP £22.60, Stockists: The Shenfield Wine Company, Refreshers, Park Lane Wine and Deli Frost Recommended. 

Audrey Braccini – Winemaker at Domaine Ferret
1) What has been a key/memorable moment in your career so far?
It was two or three years back. When I started working in Fuissé ten years ago, the welcome from the other producers was a little bit cold… and this continued for some years after. You can imagine my joy when some of them came to me and said, with kindness in their eyes, ‘good job, great wines, it is a good thing you came!’
2) If you could live in another woman’s shoes for a day, whose would you choose?
Marlène Soria – a pioneering organic winemaker from Languedoc.

Domaine Ferret Pouilly Fuissé 2016, RRP £33.40, Stockists: North and South Wines, Taurus Wines, Penistone Court Wine Cellars, Luvians Bottleshop, Planet of the Grapes, Handford Wines, Eagle Wines, Partridges of Sloane St, Loki Wines

BUSINESS OF BOOKS: FIRST, LAST, EVERYTHING – EBOOK PROGRAMME MANAGER MEGAN LOCKWOOD-JONES

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Megan Lockwood-Jones is the Ebook Programme Manager at my favourite assisted publishing house, Matador. She is the first point of contact for ebook authors and her knowledge is second to none. 

What was the first piece of publishing advice you were given?

The first piece of publishing advice I was given was to ensure self-publishing authors are choosing the right company and right services for them. At Matador we assist over 500 authors a year to publish physical and ebooks. However, it is important that authors do their research to ensure that they are using a reputable company and that the company they choose can offer the services that are right for them – not every author will have the same requirements or aims when publishing. Some may only want a few copies of a book for family and friends, others want to see their book stocked in bookshops, others only want an e-version. Read testimonials to find out what other authors’ experiences with that company were like. If you are new to the world of publishing then you’ll want to find a company that are easily contactable via telephone rather than one that can only be contacted by email – as a first time author, you may not even know the kinds of questions you should be asking so sometimes a phone call can be more reassuring.

What was the most recent piece of publishing advice you gave?

I spend the majority of my day talking to authors about ebook publishing options – as well as speaking at events such as The Self-Publishing Conference and the Experience Days we run at our offices.

The most recent advice I gave was in regards to ebook distribution. There are many different routes that authors can take, for example if you have a non-fiction ebook, why not consider making it available for pre-order? Readers are more willing to pre-order and wait for an ebook on a subject that interests them, rather than a fiction ebook where they can simply browse and select ebooks in similar genres that are already available. If you make a lot of sales during a pre-order period then these accumulate and count towards the total number of sales made on the release date, which boosts your ranking on retailers’ sites, in turn making your ebook appear earlier in search results.

If you’re interested in making your ebook available for free for a short period of time, Amazon’s KDP Select programme could be a good option for you. To be eligible, your ebook has to be exclusive to Amazon for 90 days, so it’s worth bearing this in mind if you’re considering selling the ebook through other retailers too. During the KDP Select period, you can make your ebook available for free for up to five days, and any downloads during this time can increase your ranking in the Free charts!

 

What is the piece of advice you would most like to pass on?

One of the aspects of my job I enjoy the most is cover design but if designing your own cover, think about how it’s going to be viewed by customers. Ebook jackets will be seen as thumbnails on retailers’ sites so you need to ensure that the title can still be read. A small, thin font in a colour that doesn’t stand out isn’t the best and don’t clutter your cover – try to keep it simple and avoid too much text.

If you’re paying for a professional cover design, be open-minded about the designer’s ideas. Designers spend a lot of time researching trends and amazing covers can be created if they are given a little freedom. As the author, of course you know the book best so do share any ideas or thoughts with the designer so that they can incorporate them, but let them use their expertise! Remember, you’ve paid for a professional designer for a reason, so have faith in them and trust that they aren’t going to design a cover that will be detrimental to sales.