Independent Bookshop Opens Doors to Independent Authors

Posted on March 30, 2015 by Margaret Graham

by Catriona Troth.

Foyles on London’s Charing Cross Road, is playing host to The Indie Author Fair (IAF) on Friday 17th April 2015.

When we wrapped up the Indie Author Fair 2014, most of us assumed that would be it for another year. That was before the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) approached us to run their Member Showcase at the London Book Fair Indie Author Fringe Festival, run by The ALLi /Indie ReCon.

IndieReCon is a free online writers’ conference, which has been running since 2013. This year, they are working with ALLi to run a live event at Foyles, London’s largest indie bookstore, with the support of London Book Fair’s Book and Screen Week.

To follow this, Triskele Books are organising a second Indie Author Fair – a pop-up bookshop at which more than fifty of ALLi’s members will be represented. The Fair is being sponsored by XPO North, who are bringing with them an exciting group of emerging writers from the Highlands and Islands.

“Bringing writers and readers closer together is a core part of ALLi’s mission,” said Orna Ross, Director of ALLi (Alliance of Independent Authors). “We are delighted that the Indie Author Fair will showcase the talent and enterprise of so many ALLi members and look forward to fostering new author-reader bonds at the fair.”

Indie Author Fair 2015 will take place from 16.30–19.30 and is FREE to the public with drinks reception, goodie bags and personalised signed copies available.

You can read about the full collection of books and authors on show at the Fair here.

Organiser Catriona Troth said, “The Indie Author Fair is an unmissable event for readers, writers, publishers and observers of the publishing scene, providing an opportunity to meet the best indie authors in the business, talk to experts and discover great new books.”

THE FAERIE TREE: A Book In The Making

Posted on March 21, 2015 by Jane Cable

Ostara: A time of rebirth and renewal. A time to celebrate the coming of spring. And the coming of new books…

By the time you read this The Faerie Tree will have been unleashed. Actually, even at the time of writing it’s creeping out there; Amazon have stopped listing it as a pre-order and I’ve had to hold Matador back from making the ebook available before its time.

A few boxes of paperbacks have arrived with me as well. Holding one for the first time was tinged with sadness; my mother, who was a huge supporter of my writing, passed away just ten days before so she never got to see the finished book. But she’d read early drafts and approved the cover – and right at this moment is sitting at my shoulder, telling me to get back to the point of this article.

The point is that it’s hard to publish a novel alone. I’ve written before about the ‘official’ team; my editor, the wonderful Margaret Graham (author, teacher and Frost contributing editor) and the folks at Matador, but in recent weeks I’ve received an enormous amount of help from people who, quite frankly, didn’t have to.

In my last article I mentioned my desire to create a faerie tree near my home city of Chichester. I also mentioned this to a few of my fellow Chindi (Chichester Independent) Authors, and children’s writers Christopher Joyce and Becky Edwards leapt in with huge enthusiasm to brainstorm ideas and open their contact books. We were joined by the administrator of the Sussex Centre for Folklore, Fairy Tales and Fantasy – acting in a personal capacity just because she loved the idea so much.

Through them I met Vicky Edwards, a local book-lover (she runs the Spirit FM book club) and PR. She not only gave me some great ideas to improve my press releases but just as importantly introduced me to a local charity with a woodland walk – the ideal home for a faerie tree. I was due to meet them in early March but had to cancel so there is another date in the diary and I hope that in the next article there will be something definite to tell you about this very special project.

I’ve also had a great deal of support from the bloggers who are taking part in the launch tour. These ladies work so hard reviewing books and helping readers make good choices about what they might enjoy. They do it for the love of it – some are retired, but most hold down day jobs as well. And I think I’m busy. Follow the tour (details below) and browse their other posts for great steers on books you might enjoy.

Finally, I’ve had the blessing of the elves, pixies and faeries who live around the real faerie tree where the book is set. You see I did what many people have done before – for over twenty years, in fact – and I put a letter into their little box. And like everyone else, I received a reply; wishing me well and giving me instructions on where to leave their copy. I hope they like it. I hope everyone likes it. It would be a really fitting thank you to all the unsung heroes who’ve helped me along the way.

The Faerie Tree blog tour…

22^nd March: Random Things Through My Letterbox – author Q&A
http://randomthingsthroughmyletterbox.blogspot.co.uk/

23^rd March: Rosie Amber – review
https://rosieamber.wordpress.com/

24^th March: Liz Loves Books – the settings & scenery of The Faerie Tree
http://lizlovesbooks.com/

25^th March: My Reading Corner – the faerie tree itself and book giveaway
http://myreading-corner.blogspot.co.uk/

26^th March: Crooks on Books – author interview
http://crooksonbooks.blogspot.co.uk/

28^th March: Jaffa Reads Too – the inspiration for The Faerie Tree and book giveaway
http://jaffareadstoo.blogspot.co.uk/

29^th March: Being Anne – second chances
http://beingannereading.blogspot.co.uk/

31^st March: Beadyjan’s Books – writing with women in mind
http://beadyjansbooks.blogspot.co.uk/

Why Writers Return To Carcassonne By Jane Carling

Posted on March 17, 2015 by Margaret Graham

I am always on the look out to find ways of improving my writing and I also know that not only is a good tutor essential, but one needs time to think and concentrate. So hey, why not combine it with a holiday? I struck lucky when, two years ago, I discovered French House Party. It is a country retreat that provides an all-inclusive oasis of calm for both experienced writers and novices who seek inspiration away from daily distractions of life.

Located in the hamlet of Pexioria, the converted stone barn is about twenty minutes from Carcassonne in SW France. Each of the pretty eight bedrooms are en-suite, individually styled and in June the scent of lavender fills the air, whilst just across the track are fields of sunflowers. If only I could paint. On arrival at Toulouse, I was whisked away in an air conditioned limo to this haven and was greeted by my host, Moira Martingale with a glass of champagne as she introduced the group to one another. There were only six of us last year, although they can cater for up to twelve. The only important decision required was Red, Rosé or White as delicious meals, prepared by the innovative Regine, was placed before you.

Sarah Hymas runs the creative writing courses. She is an accomplished mentor, coach, editor, and a recognised poet who also writes short stories and performs plays. Effortlessly, she really made us think outside the box, encouraged our inner creativity, dispelled any inhibitions to overcome writing blocks and has a wicked sense of humour.

The course began at ten each morning until lunch, then we were free to write, walk, cycle
(the Canal du Midi is close) play tennis or table tennis, swim, or just sit in the sunshine with fellow scribes.

Included in the price, are two suppers in excellent restaurants, one of which is highly acclaimed and set within the Medieval City walls of Carcassonne. There is also a free day for relaxation, to write, to shop or visit local attractions and one evening was dedicated to discussing our work over a leisurely Dinner.

This year they have introduced a retreat week, “Pen and Think” for those wishing to focus on personal projects and Sarah will provide individual support and critique.

Since discovering French House Party, I have made some great new friends including a Tasmanian hermit who is now travelling the world, an enigmatic octogenarian who was writing her risqué memoirs and a fun character whose interpretation of French House Party was not quite what he expected. In between the laughter and fun, there is much discussion and sharing of writing and publishing tips.

Although this is not a cheap week, it is worth every penny for anyone of any age who is writing a novel, short stories or just starting out as a writer. Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is daunting, but last year the disparate bunch of people blended so well that my laugh lines had doubled on my return. So, armed with excess baggage of eye cream, in June I shall be returning for the “Pen & Think” week to indulge in the delights of words, warmth, and a little wine whilst hoping to get some work done.

As a romantic Indie novelist, I like to write fast paced romantic stories set in sunny locations and to date I have published two books, Pandora’s Box is set in Greece and my latest, Ruby’s New Coat, is a wartime romance, set between London and Crete.

Details are on my website: www.janecarling.co.uk and both can be purchased on Amazon.co.uk and Kobo.com.

For more information about French House Party visit www.frenchouseparty.co.uk

Frost Editor Catherine Balavage Interviewed By Writing Magazine

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Frostie

If you have ever been curious about Frost Magazine editor Catherine Balavage’s writing day then grab a copy of the April 2015 edition of Writing Magazine. Catherine is interviewed by Lynne Hackles. She talks about Frost, writing books and her acting career.

Catherine is not the first Frost team member to be interviewed by Writing Magazine, contributing editor Margaret Graham was also interviewed about her writing day in a prior issue.

Head down to a newsagents and get your copy now. Available at WHsmith.co.uk, Waterstones.com, all good newsagents or the Writing Magazine website.

Mother’s Day Poem | Close Encounter by Angela Taplin

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Margaret Graham

Angela Taplin, scribbler of fiction, poetry and (sometime) Deep Meaningful Reflections on Life. She’s a member of Chesham Writers and Scribblers and prefers lad docle vita to Ryvita any day. She is a mother and a new, doting, grandmother.

Close Encounter by Angela Taplin

‘Hi,’ she whispers soft

Her face alight with smile.

‘How are you doing?’

‘Look at you – aren’t you just perfect?’

Her eyes drink in every detail of him

From top to toe.

She leans in for a kiss,

Just brushing her lips across his skin.

He lets her,

His eyes fixed on her.

Accepting.

Calm.

Greedy, she gathers him to herself,

Breathing in the heady scent of him.

She’s waited so long for this moment.

The anticipation has been – almost –

Overwhelming.

‘I can’t believe you’re here.’

Kiss

‘I can’t believe you’re mine.’

Kiss

‘I’ll never let you go.’

Kiss

‘I love you.’

Kiss. Kiss.

‘Welcome to the world, my precious one.’

Angela Taplin March 2015

The Journey by Jenny Falcon | Poetry Corner

Posted on February 16, 2015 by Frostie

Jenny Falcon took a bi-lingual French/English secretarial course with the avowed intention of becoming the first U.K. ambassador to France: sadly, this did not transpire. She loves travelling to places off the tourist wish list, and has long been a member of Ladies Circle, which has expanded her horizons even further. Jenny considers family and friends crucial to her life. Happily married for decades with one married daughter, her single best achievement, Jenny is a poet and writer.

The Journey by Jenny Falcon

The dirty mainline station was functioning with its usual, organised frenzy
People criss-crossing the forecourt, focused on their own trajectories
Announcements – almost incomprehensible – feebly fought against the sound
Of multiple movement, competing noises of man and machine

My feet took me hastily through the barrier and along the platform
I stepped with wearisome tread onto the waiting train which crouched
Like an uncomplaining mammal, gently hissing and clicking
I found a seat, tucked at one end of a carriage, and sank into the corner

At the appointed departure time, the train moved off with a gentle tug
It had a heavy load, it was that time of the evening, so many assorted souls
Making their respective homeward journeys, some pale and exhausted
Others frenetically tapping at their electronic devices, mesmerised, unaware

But the movement of the lumbering train was beguiling, almost soothing
The enforced closeness of fellow travellers did not feel intrusive
But strangely comforting, locked together in a homeward goal
Leaving behind the tangled thoughts and worries of the day

Dusk was approaching, the occasional light drew attention
The suburban gardens pulled over their shrouds of grey
The fields and parks became secretive, waiting for the moon
The grubbiness of the trackside buildings disappeared in the gloom

No longer could one’s gaze rest on the world passing by
Just a jumble of shapes, confused with the reflections from within;
Eyes closed, listening to the sounds of the train as it sped on
Wishing to arrive, to be transported away to a familiar shelter

Finally, the sounds changed, the regular beat slowed, people shuffled,
Roused themselves to face again the world outside the large cocoon
The train gently stopped and at once, the relative calm was broken
As those within, hurried away without a backward glance.

The end of the line, so I paused – waited until all had gone
Viewed the empty cartons, crumpled papers, dirty tissues
Detritus of a daily, uneventful, homeward journey, one of so many
And then, stepped off the train myself and followed the crowd

How Can Organizing a Literary Festival be Fun? By Margaret Graham

Posted on February 10, 2015 by Margaret Graham

Easy peasey, when it’s for a good cause, and you have fantastic writers in support.

The thrust of our fundraising at Words for the Wounded is two-fold. We feel we must earn our donations which help the wounded, and offer opportunities to aspiring writers, and interested readers – hence the writing competitions.

Remember that the three grannies who run the charity absorb all the costs, so every penny goes to the wounded.

Last year, to raise extra funds for the recovery of wounded troops, we grannies, who run Words for the Wounded, decided to throw ourselves out of a plane (with parachutes and a handsome man to cling to, I might add). This year, in August we’re splodging through mud doing a Military Assault Course.

Not quite the same elan, but sons-in-law, who are doing it too, are very much looking forward to not catching us when we toppled from the tyre wall.

It seemed, however, a good idea to do something less strenuous in the meantime. A Literary Festival seemed just about the ticket.

First panic: will people come? Build it and see, seemed to be the thing to do. Wasn’t that what Kevin Costner was told about a baseball field?

Second panic: will we attract speakers? Well, let’s try our mates.

So we get on the phone to call a couple of WforW patrons.

Katie Fforde is a Sunday Times No 1 bestseller and a great pal. ‘’Of course,’ she said. ‘Let’s do it. In fact, you and me together, Margaret, chatting.’ Done.

Second call to Rachel Cuperman. Rachel writes Midsomer Murders scripts, and if they’re not bestsellers, I don’t know what is.
‘Of course,’ she said. ‘Can’t wait. I’ll get my co-writer, Sally Griffiths to come too.’ Done.

I am kissing the hem of their garments by now.

Penny Deacon is one of the grannies, and a crime writer. She will be talking about her work. Done.

A past student, Amanda Hatter, and Catriona Troth, who is a committed member of the Alliance of Independent Authors, are to sit on our self-publishing panel. Me too, me too, to try to keep them under control.

Photo attribution: Ruth Jenkinson

Catherine Balavage, publisher of Frost Magazine, who would have been with us has a far more important project on the go – a son to be born at about the same time.

Finally, we have a fantastic agent: Felicity Trew of the Caroline Sheldon Literary Agency who is really looking forward to meeting all the aspiring authors in the audience. She will be here for the day, so loads of time for networking.

Then we have the food: As real foodies the grannies have been planning lunch, with wine, and tea with cake. We’re of an age where life seems to revolve around cake… Join us in pursuit of the calories.

Waterstones will be there, writers will sign books. There will be an artist exhibiting her work. There will be a buzz. It’s the inaugural Literary Festival for Downley Community Centre, which has been fantastically supportive.

So come. Enjoy the day. Tickets in advance to facilitate catering.

It’s been fun organizing it, and will be even more so, on the day.

Remember: the grannies absorb all the costs of the charity every penny we raise goes to where it’s needed.

Where is it needed? See the sort of injuries our service personnel suffer:

https://www.frostmagazine.com/2014/12/wounded-the-legacy-of-war-photographs-by-bryan-adams/

Date: April 18th. 9.30 for 10.00 start until 5.00. Downley Community Centre, High Wycombe, HP13 5TR Tickets £50 to include all refreshments.

Contact: Margaret@margaret-graham.com for information and tickets, or go to www.wordsforthewounded.co.uk

THE FAERIE TREE: A Book In The Making

Posted on February 2, 2015 by Jane Cable

Imbolc: When the days are getting longer and the earth is getting warmer, a time of fertility and fire, and of focussing on our own magical gifts and abilities.

Being an author is in some ways akin to parenthood. Although not, of course, quite so important. But it is an act of creation (albeit solitary), nurture, and then letting your offspring go to make its own way in the world.

The last part is the hardest. Time and again while checking the proofs for The Faerie Tree I was assailed by awful thoughts: it’s not good enough; nobody’ll like it; it will fail. Time and again I had to remind myself to have faith in my editor’s view – and in the opinions of others who have read it.

But when your book makes its way into the wider world it isn’t enough to hover at the school gates for twenty minutes then go home and cry. You have to shout about it – tell the world – make them want to buy it.

So the last month has been focussed on marketing – which isn’t necessarily one of my own magical abilities. I know the theory, but somehow I don’t have the knack of pushing myself that some other authors have. I just don’t know how to stand there and say “Buy my book – it’s amazing.”

The first step in marketing is getting your book into places where people can buy it. Matador does a great deal of this for me, particularly the online stuff. On 21^st March (or maybe a little before) it will miraculously appear on Amazon, Kobo, iBooks, Google, Waterstones & WH Smith online. It will be sitting on marketing platforms like Goodreads and I’ve Read That. It will be available for bookshops to order through the industry’s main wholesalers – but the job of persuading them to actually stock it will be down to me.

While the cut price books offered by the big retailers are great for readers they aren’t so good for writers because they have pushed many local booksellers out of business. The chain stores have a stocking policy which rules out local decision making, leaving independent authors and many traditionally published ones out in the cold. Even where they exist the independent book trade can be timid too – before giving it valuable shelf space they have to be sure a book will sell. It’s not their fault – most of them are living hand to mouth and cannot afford to take potentially costly risks. Even on sale or return.

Inevitably many sales are online (The Cheesemaker’s House sales to date are about a 50:50 split ebook and paperback, with half the paperbacks being sold through Amazon) so the marketing focus has to be here too. The first thing I did was organise a blog tour so I am at least guaranteed some coverage around the launch date. The next thing is to make sure the book is available for reviewers, booksellers and librarians to download via Netgalley. And book a Netgalley promotion to make sure it stands out from the crowd.

Other marketing musts are updating my website (www.janecable.com) ready for the beginning of March; moving my Amazon author profile to their new format (long overdue); and polishing up my Goodreads profile, Twitter masthead and Facebook page.

And if that wasn’t enough I’ve also got this really crazy idea to create a faerie tree for my home city of Chichester. I’ll certainly need more than a little help from the hidden folk to pull that one off…

Frost Magazine

Books and Lifestyle

Tag Archives: writing

Independent Bookshop Opens Doors to Independent Authors

THE FAERIE TREE: A Book In The Making

Why Writers Return To Carcassonne By Jane Carling

Frost Editor Catherine Balavage Interviewed By Writing Magazine

Mother’s Day Poem | Close Encounter by Angela Taplin

The Journey by Jenny Falcon | Poetry Corner

How Can Organizing a Literary Festival be Fun? By Margaret Graham

THE FAERIE TREE: A Book In The Making