So, imagine this: a bustling coastal town hall, loud enough to wake the seagulls, and buzzing with talk sharper than a crab’s claw. That was Brightcombe on the night of the notorious council meeting—where the promise of a shiny new supermarket cracked the calm like a dropped fishmonger’s tray. In my latest cozy mystery, Murder Most Dramatic, this heated debate isn’t just background noise; it’s the spark that sets the whole murder mystery roaring to life.
Remember the good old days when finding your next great read meant wandering bookstore aisles like a literary zombie, hoping to stumble upon something that didn't make you want to hurl your Kindle across the room? Or relying on that one friend who somehow always recommended books that made you question their sanity (looking at you, Sarah, for that 47-book vampire romance series)?
If reaching a physical book club isn’t possible—whether due to travel, health, or simply a busy schedule—joining or running a virtual book club is a wonderful alternative that brings readers together from anywhere in the world. Virtual clubs have flourished, and setting one up is easier than ever.
I’ve recently published my latest novel, titled Murder Most Dramatic, and I have to say, it is, I hope, a thrilling journey through the complexities of a small town gripped by conflict, secrets, and ultimately, tragedy. The story unfolds in the coastal town of Brightcombe, where tensions rise over a controversial supermarket development that threatens to change the fabric of the community.
Look, I get it. Summer is winding down and if your bookshelf looks anything like mine, it’s a tragic graveyard of unfinished beach reads, romances, and one too many “how to be productive” guides that absolutely did not get read (but hey, those were optimistically purchased). But now the air smells like cinnamon and a vague sense of philosophical introspection, so it’s time to transition your reading habits for autumn—with maximum cosiness and only a moderate amount of self-mockery.
If you’re like me, reading is more than just a pastime — it’s a journey. Whether you’re diving into a murder mystery, escaping into sci-fi, or unravelling a thriller, there’s something deeply satisfying about watching that progress bar inch forward or seeing your page count rise day by day. But keeping track of what you’ve read, where you left off, and what you want to tackle next can sometimes feel like a daunting task. Thankfully, technology has made this easier, and there are some great apps and a couple of handy tips to keep your reading on track, all while making the experience more fun.