All posts by Linda

Books, Interview

The Witch’s Apprentice Book Tour

I’m so pleased to be invited onto The Witch’s Apprentice book tour celebrating the latest short story collection by author Ekta Garg. The Witch’s Apprentice & Other Stories is just the book to curl up and read as the nights draw in. This book cleverly explores the untold scenes of some of the most famous fairytales and nursery rhymes, with an adult twist…. Here’s a quick summary of the book to explain more…

BOOK SUMMARY

Have you ever wondered why Jack and Jill needed that pail of water in the first place? Or how Sleeping Beauty managed to prick her finger despite a royal order to destroy every spindle in the kingdom?

Fairy tales and nursery rhymes have given us some of the most iconic characters and images in storytelling; think Cinderella’s glass slipper or Jack’s oversized beanstalk. But what about the in-between moments? The ones that never made it to the page?

In this enchanting micro-collection of short stories, award-winning author Ekta R. Garg explores the untold scenes between the lines of some of our most loved tales. Find out what the Wicked Witch of the East was doing in the road before Dorothy’s house fell on her. Learn where Goldilocks came from. Meet the conmen who convinced the emperor he had new clothes and more.

Rediscover the wit, heart, and magic of the classics, and see them as you’ve never seen them before in The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories.

THE INTERVIEW

Hi Ekta 👋 and a big warm welcome to the blog….

Hello! My name is Ekta Garg, and I’m a Reviewer, Editor, Author, and Dreamer of stories and books. I write about grief and magic and hope and how these three intersect in my characters’ lives. I’ve been reading and writing my whole life; have worked in niche publishing since 2005; and was first published in 2021 with my holiday novella for grownups, The Truth About Elves. I’m a book podcaster and a writing contest judge, and one of my life philosophies is, “Drink tea, read books, be happy.”

Who or what inspired you to write your collection of short stories, “The Witch’s Apprentice & Other Stories”?

I came across a writing prompt a few years ago that inspired the first draft of the title story, “The Witch’s Apprentice,” which basically looks into the opening of The Wizard of Oz. We all know that Dorothy’s house came from Kansas and landed on top of the Wicked Witch of the East. My question, that I included in the book at the start of the story, was, What was the witch doing in the middle of the road in the first place?

I had so much fun posing this kind of question to an existing story that generations of readers have known and loved that I did it again for the nursery rhyme, “Jack and Jill” (Question: Why did they need that pail of water in the first place?), and for “The Pied Piper of Hamelin” (Question: What happened to the parents who were left behind after the piper spirited their children away?). When it came time to start thinking about writing my third book, I realized this method of interrogating classic stories and nursery rhymes might make a fun collection. I wrote two more stories — one based on “The Emperor’s New Clothes” and the other that addresses “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” and “Sleeping Beauty” — and sent the manuscript to my publisher, Nick Courtwright, at Atmosphere Press. He really liked the concept of looking into these unexplored facets of classic stories, and here we are!

“The Witch’s Apprentice & Other Stories” ” is a collection of short stories that explores the untold scenes between the lines of some favourite fairy tales and nursery rhymes. My favourite stories were the nursery rhyme, Jack and Jill –  I found the untold scene was totally unexpected ! – and I liked Goldilocks too! Which short story did you enjoy writing about the most?  Which “untold scene” was the hardest to portray?

I’ll always have a soft spot for the title story, “The Witch’s Apprentice,” because that’s the one that kicked off the entire collection. And since you’ve read the book, you know about the ending. It still makes me grin, even all this time after first writing it. 

I also have a deep love for “Denying Hamelin.” As a parent myself, I know how hard it is to get up every day and send my kids off into the world. There’s always a low level of anxiety that they’ll be okay, that people will treat them with love and respect and dignity, that they’ll come home safe and sound. In some ways, I think this story was almost like an acknowledgment to those worst fears realized. Also, the story is quite different from the others in the collection as well as from the kind of thing I normally write, so I’m really proud of the lyrical cadence, almost poetic in form, that came together in this one.

The hardest story to write was undoubtedly “The Beauty Before She Sleeps,” only because it took me a really long time to figure out the entry point of the story. I kept writing and rewriting different ways to start it, and nothing seemed right. I also had to figure out where I was going to end it; in some ways, the story could have been its own novella, but that’s not what I was going for. I found it challenging to keep it down to a somewhat reasonable length. It’s funny, because I always knew the main points of the story that I wanted to hit, but getting through the more mechanical elements made it a challenge to write.

Do you find writing a collection of short stories easier or harder than a novella? 

In some ways, it’s easier. You don’t have to spend as much time working on character/plot development, and sometimes as a writer you yourself don’t even know everything that’s going on behind the scenes with a story. You might have more insight than the reader, because it’s your creation, but you’re not sure and that’s okay. Short stories are more compact in form, so you know you’re going to get in and out and you’re done. And the length of short stories really forces a writer to focus on what’s important. 

That’s also exactly what makes it harder too. With short stories, there’s only so much space and time to devote to what you’re trying to say. The word count limit also forces a writer to confront the actual point, which can sometimes be hard to go through because stories don’t always do what you’d planned for them to do. Sometimes you sit down to write a story thinking it’s going to be about X, and then it takes a complete left turn when you least expect it and turns out to be about Q. 

Some of the best short stories also feel like they race by you, and that 80-mile-an-hour rush, that nearly causes whiplash, can leave you breathless, whereas a novella or novel starts slow and revs up bit by bit until you’re speeding along and the world is blurring by and don’t want to get off until you hit that final point.

Actually, I think they’re both easy and hard all at the same time. 😁 And short story collections have the added challenge of making sure all the stories within a single collection sit next to each other in a way that makes sense. So, yes, easy and hard all at once.

If you could visit any country/place in the world, to base a future collection of short stories in, where would you go and why? 

Oh, wow, such a fun question! I’ve never thought about this before, but at the start of the summer our family had the incredible opportunity to visit Italy for the first time. I’d love to go back and, yes, set a series of short stories there!

A quiet spot to do a spot of reading? This was taken in Umbria, Italy ©️ Linda Hobden

As you are a professional book reviewer too, I already know that you’re a bookworm! What is your favourite genre and/or authors? Kindle or actual book? 

I actually read pretty widely — sci-fi/fantasy; historical fiction; women’s and mainstream fiction; thrillers (domestic, legal, murder mysteries) — and across different ages — MG, YA, new adult, and adult books — so it’s hard to pinpoint a specific genre that I love more than any other. It’s kind of like asking a professional chef whether they love their ladles or their skillets more. Each has such a different purpose and utility that comparing them is hard.

For favorite authors, I’ll read absolutely anything by Fredrik Backman and T.M. Logan. I also adore Emily Jane’s work as well as Lindsay Currie. More than anything — age, genre, or author — I love books that surprise me. 

As for book format, I used to be one of those hardcore “only hard copy books for me!”…until my parents bought me my first Kindle in 2012. It’s kind of funny too, because they’d asked me if I wanted one, and I said, “No, I’ll never use a device to read a book!” (goofy purist that I was at that time,) and they turned around and bought it for me anyway. So I figured since they spent the money, I should be a good daughter and not let their money go to waste.

I haven’t looked back since. I even replaced that original Kindle with a newer one last year when the old one’s pixels started gasping on the screen.

However, I’m still a huge proponent of hard copy books. My nightstand currently holds about 20…well, maybe more. Thirty, I think? I haven’t counted. 😆 My husband just shakes his head and mutters that he’s glad he doesn’t have to share the nightstand with me. Many of these are from the library, but others are books I’ve bought that are on my TBR.

Last year, I also finally got into audiobooks and have started enjoying those as well. I can finally say I’m an omnivore when it comes to books!

And, really, that’s one of the best things about technology. It allows us to experience books — stories — in all forms and formats.

 Is “The Witch’s Apprentice & Other Stories” available to purchase worldwide?

If you have access to Amazon, you should be able to purchase it anywhere. Here in the States, you can order it from my author website and I’ll send you an autographed copy and a personalized note to say thank you. You  can also go to your local library or indie bookstore and ask them to get the book for you. Yay for libraries and indie bookstores!

 Growing up, had you always wanted to be a writer/editor/book reviewer or did you have other career aspirations?

I always knew I wanted to be an author. I stated it outright when I was 14, but I’ve been reading and absorbed in books since preschool. I was also one of those “nerdy” spelling bee kids 😄, so I’ve been surrounded by words and stories for my entire life. I think becoming an author was inevitable!

The editing and book reviewer roles came much later, but because both are so intricately connected to books it doesn’t surprise me. In addition to just really enjoying the editing process, I truly believe editing and reviewing books have both made me a better writer. So it all comes back to storytelling for me, and I’m so grateful that I get to do this.

Copyright ©️ Linda Hobden . A library in Sal Rei, Boa Vista, Cape Verde

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

If I’m at home and not going anywhere, you’ll find me with my hair in a ponytail, no makeup, no jewelry, and in a pair of comfy PJs or an old t-shirt and soft shorts/capris. If I’m going out to lunch with a friend, I’ll probably wear a fun dress (in the summer) or a nice pair of pants and a pretty sweater (in the fall/winter) with some small, every-day jewelry. I also enjoy getting really dressed up for a big evening out. So it all depends on where I’m going and what I’m doing that day.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites ?

Hmm. When it comes to books, I love supporting my local indie bookstore, The Literary (https://www.literarybookbar.com/). I do shop on Amazon, but that’s mostly when I can’t find an item in a bricks-and-mortar store in town (and, sadly, that’s becoming more and more the case as even chain stores reduce inventory.) 

For clothes, in the last few years I discovered that Talbot’s has a lot of things that are my style and also that fit me. Our local Talbot’s is a little smaller, so I’ll check out their website from time to time to find things.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

We’re at the start of the school year, which means a lot of fall clothes have made their way into the stores and all the spring/summer stuff is on sale. I want to hit our local stores to find a few nice, fun, frilly things to replace some of my older summer things!

Boots or Shoes?

I love the way boots look and feel, but I don’t have the model, mile-long legs that my 19-year-old does to really rock a pair like a superstar. So it’s shoes (most of the time!) for me. 

Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook etc

Thanks so much for the opportunity to be featured! Here’s where people can find me:

Author website: https://ektargarg.com

Instagram/X: @EktaRGarg 

Facebook: https://facebook.comReviewerEditorAuthorDreamer

BOOK TOUR DATES

All photographs have been published with the kind permission of Ekta R Garg. Some photos are by Linda Hobden. Many thanks to Ekta too for the review copy of The Witch’s Apprentice & Other Stories. All opinions are 100% my own

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Books, Interview, Reviews

What The River Keeps Book Tour

I’m so pleased to be on Cheryl Grey Bostrum’s book tour to promote her latest book, What The River Keeps. And what a book it is! With an outdoorsy theme and a love element too, it’s the perfect holiday read. Before I chat to Cheryl, here’s a quick summary of “What The River Keeps” …

BOOK SUMMARY

Reclusive biologist Hildy Nybo returns to her childhood home on Washington’s Elwha River, where she untangles her mysterious past.

Hildy Nybo is a successful biologist, her study of the Pacific Northwest’s wild fish both a passion and a career. But behind her professional brilliance, Hildy’s reclusive private life reflects a childhood fraught with uncertainty. Haunted by the confusion of her early years, she now records her life in detailed diaries and clings to memory-prompting keepsakes. 

Then her mother’s health fails, and Hildy accepts a job near her childhood home, joining a team of scientists who will help restore her beloved Elwha River after two century-old dams fall. There Hildy settles into a cabin on her family’s rustic resort—a place she both loves and dreads, for reasons she can’t fully explain. 

When a local artist rents an adjacent cabin for her pottery studio, Hildy resists the intrusion—until intriguing Luke Rimmer arrives to help with the cabin’s renovation. Now a few years beyond a tragedy that brought him to his knees, Luke recognizes a kindred soul in Hildy. As he earns her trust, they uncover her mysterious history, and Hildy dares to wonder if she can banish her shadows—and follow her river’s course to freedom.

Publisher: Tyndale Fiction (August 12, 2025)

ISBN: 1496481585

ISBN: 978-1496481580

AISN:  B0DK3ZW85L

ASIN: B0DYG3PK8T

Print length:  368 pages (also available as ebook and audiobook)

THE INTERVIEW

I’m so pleased to welcome author Cheryl Grey Bostrum onto the blog …Hi Cheryl 👋

Hi 👋 I’m Cheryl Grey Bostrom, Tyndale novelist and nature photographer from the Pacific Northwest.
My award-winning novels —Sugar Birds, Leaning on Air, and What the River Keeps—are all contemporary fiction in which the breathtaking natural world illuminates emotional and spiritual truths in our lives. I write for readers who crave stories of hope, redemption, and deep connection to both people and place.

Who or what inspired you to write What the River Keeps?

The inspiration sprang from my love for wild rivers and the idea that healing — whether personal or environmental — requires trust, resilience, connectedness. I’ve long been moved by the story of the Elwha River on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, especially its real-life dam removal and ecosystem revival. That transformation became a perfect metaphor for my protagonist’s journey back to wholeness.

I really enjoyed reading your book,What the River Keeps, and I particularly enjoyed the characters of Hildy & Luke. Hildy’s reclusive character was particularly riveting. What character did you particularly enjoy writing about? What character was the hardest to
portray?

I’m so glad Hildy resonated with you. She was both the most challenging and the most rewarding to write. Her emotional isolation, grief, and spiritual struggle demanded deep honesty and care. As for the most enjoyable? Luke surprised me. His layered strength, quiet faith, and loyalty made him a steadying force, both for Hildy and me.

You live in the Pacific Northwest— did you base the Elwha River & camp in your novel on the river areas in your region?

Absolutely. I grew up hiking along the Elwha River, which tumbles from the rugged Olympic Mountains through the forested canyons of Olympic National Park. I enjoyed Lake Aldwell (the Elwha dam’s reservoir) and the Elwha Resort before the healing ecosystem absorbed them both. The story’s flora, fauna, and landscape framed my coming of age in Port Angeles, Sequim, the Elwha Valley, and points farther west on the Olympic Peninsula.

Growing up, did you envisage yourself as a writer or did you have other career aspirations?

Though I wrote poetry from a young age, I initially pursued a career in education, and taught high school English and psychology for years. While I late wrote a couple of nonfiction books,storytelling was always humming beneath the surface. Eventually, the call to write fiction became too loud to resist. I cleared my slate, devoted myself full-time to learning the craft, and haven’t looked back.

Is What The River Keeps available to purchase worldwide?

Yes! The book’s available through online booksellers, independent bookstores, and major retailers. Ebook, audiobook, and paper editions are all available.

If you could visit any place in the world to inspire your next novel, where would you go and why?

While I’ve boated the Alaskan coastline, I’d love to explore its far north interior—landscapes where austere wilderness tests the resilience of humans and wildlife alike. A fresh canvas for the kinds of redemptive stories I love to tell.

Are you a bookworm yourself? If so, what genres (or authors) do you usually like to read? And are you a Kindle or “proper book” fan?

Absolutely a bookworm! I gravitate toward lyrical literary fiction, stories with spiritual resonance, and those steeped in nature. I admire writers like Leif Enger, Marilynne Robinson, Annie Dillard. As for format, I’ll always default to physical books—but I pack my Kindle when I travel.

Personal now—what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

Most days, I’m in jeans, hiking boots or trail shoes, and a cozy sweater or fleece—ready to grab my camera and head outside. Simplicity and comfort suit both writing and photography in wild places.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites?

I love outdoor and sustainable brands like REI and Patagonia. I also support small businesses and artisan shops, especially those in the Pacific Northwest.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

I’ve got my eye on a new pair of waterproof boots—durable enough for muddy trails but stylish enough for town.

Boots or Shoes?

Apart from the few months I can go barefoot here in Northwest Washington State, I choose boots. I like dry feet—and being prepared when the outdoors beckons.

BOOK TOUR DATES

My thanks to Cheryl for having me on her book tour and for a preview copy of her fab book “What The River Keeps”.
Photographs have been published with the kind permission of Cheryl Grey Bostrum

The river photo that heads the interview is by Linda Hobden

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Books, Interview, Life Issues/ Motivational Posts

An Interview With Christopher Paul Jones, Phobia Expert

This week I’d like to welcome onto the blog Christopher Paul Jones who is a leading Harley Street phobia expert. Christopher has conducted many years of research into fears, anxiety and phobias and has developed an integrated approach to help combat fears by combining mainstream psychology with cutting edge techniques. He has also just published a book too: “Face Your Fears – 7 Steps to Conquering Phobias and Anxiety “. Without any further ado, let’s chat to Christopher! Hi Christopher and welcome 👋

Hi 👋 I’m Christopher Paul Jones, a Harley Street phobia specialist based in London, near Richmond. I help people overcome fears and anxieties so they can live life with confidence and freedom.

Who or what inspired you to become a phobia expert?

It all started by chance. In my old job, I was working with someone who demonstrated rapid-change techniques, and it completely blew my mind. Back then, I thought therapy meant spending 20 years talking about your childhood. I had no idea you could make fast, lasting changes. I had my own fears at the time, so I started learning these techniques to help myself. Then I began helping others as a hobby—and before long, it turned into my full-time career.

Were there any aspects of writing your book or researching the Integrated Change System™ that surprised you?

Definitely. When I first learned these techniques over 20 years ago, they were considered quite alternative. What surprised me was how much has changed – today, neuroscience backs up many of these approaches.
Another big surprise was how something small, like a single comment or metaphor, can completely change someone’s life. Some sections of the book I nearly cut ended up being the ones people tell me made the biggest difference.

Can you explain a little bit about the Integrated Change System™ and its aims?

After years of working with clients, I realised there were seven key areas that needed to be addressed to overcome any fear. One technique alone rarely works for everyone, so I developed a system that covers all the bases. Here’s an overview of the seven steps:
1. Recognise – Identify what the fear really is and what triggers it.
2. Relax – Calm the mind and nervous system to stop fear spirals.
3. Reward – Understand the hidden benefit the fear gives you.
4. Recipe – Break down the fear pattern—fear is learned, so it can be unlearned.
5. Release – Let go of past events that feed the fear.
6. Recondition – Install new, positive responses in place of fear.
7. Realise – Visualise a future without fear and make it feel real.

The goal is to give people a practical way to overcome fear and take back control of their lives.

Have you always wanted a career in psychology or did you have other aspirations?

Not at all! Originally, I trained in media—I was a cameraman and editor. I discovered these techniques while filming courses. I started swapping skills, filming in exchange for learning, and at first I just wanted to improve my own life. Then I saw how powerful this work was and knew I wanted to help others too.

Have you experienced any phobias yourself?

Absolutely—I’ve been there myself. Growing up, I had several phobias: flying, public speaking, insects like spiders and wasps, and a lot of social anxiety. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping others—I know exactly how it feels.

What are the most common and unusual phobias you’ve encountered?

Some fears are incredibly common: public speaking, flying, spiders, snakes, dogs, weather-related fears like thunder and lightning, and medical phobias such as needles or choking.
But I’ve also seen some unusual ones. One client had a fear of Christmas tinsel. It turned out she’d been wrapped in tinsel as a child and choked during a game, so her brain linked tinsel with danger. Once we reconditioned that memory, the phobia disappeared.

Is Face Your Fears – 7 Steps to Conquering Phobias and Anxiety available worldwide?

Yes, it’s available worldwide. A friend in Australia recently found a copy, so you can definitely find it on Amazon and in most major bookstores.

What outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

Before I met my wife, I dressed very casually. These days, I lean towards smart-casual. For shoes, I like Ted Baker and Skechers trainers for comfort. Outfit-wise, GANT and Tommy Hilfiger are my go-tos.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites?

I shop at GANT, Ted Baker and Next, and I like Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren for classics. Marks & Spencer is great for good-quality basics.


What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

After attending Henley Regatta, I realised I only have very casual or very formal shoes. Next on my list is a pair of comfortable loafers that work for both. I’d also like a good summer jacket.

Boots or shoes?

Shoes, because they’re much more comfortable. Boots feel a bit restrictive, even though they’re great for winter.

Links you would like to share:

You can find my book Face Your Fears on Amazon and other major bookstores. For resources, free tools, and more information, visit www.christopherpauljones.com

All photographs have been published with kind permission of Christopher Paul Jones.

Social media/top photo is of Luton Airport UK by Linda Hobden

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Books, Interview, Reviews

Author Interview: Fondley Tenner Palmer

On 8th March 2025 – International Women’s Day – my guest, author Fondley Tenner Palmer, published his fantasy adult tale “Footnotes “ . This magical tale of powerful goddesses portrays women as potent forces for good. Fantasy novels are all the rage at the moment, and this novel, I feel, offers an intelligent escapism without being far fetched and enough fantasy to lose yourself in an alternative universe for an hour or two. Before I introduce Fondley, here’s a quick summary of “Footnotes”:

BOOK SUMMARY

This novel is the story of two goddesses, Goddess Lusa and Goddess Mulcapan who, billions of years ago, were a physical presence on planet Earth.  It tells of their origins and histories as human leaders and great queens of their communities.  Now these powerful goddesses have returned – but what do they want from the people of Earth? Will they treat us well – or will we become their slaves? Will we have to fight for our very existence?

THE INTERVIEW

Hi Fondley 👋 Welcome to the blog …

Hi, my name is Fondley Tenner Palmer, and I’m thrilled to be here today. I was born in England, in the summer month of July, raised and educated in Wembley, Middlesex, and I’m father to the greatest daughter in the world and our cat,named Pansie.

Here is a little bit about myself:

How would I describe my personality? Sensitive, caring, determined, sometimes downright stubborn, ambitious, kind-hearted, and I believe in myself. I’m an optimistic dreamer who has lived a life of joy, love and laughter with the odd bit of good luck thrown in.

Professionally, my background to date is in sales, new business development and business to business – meeting targets, trying to make money, living hard and fast, until the day arrives when you say to yourself, ‘Is this it? Is this my life? Where is the fulfilment, the joy?’ There is this feeling that your mind, body and soul is craving something else.

And my hobbies …

The beauty of writing fulfils my creative art of expression, helping to expand on my intellectual thoughts, and has brought me to write this book.

Gardening and jogging connect me with nature and contribute to my physical, emotional and ecological wellbeing.

The arts have a significant impact on the quality of my life by providing emotional and cultural enrichment.

The joy of reading opens up new worlds, enriching my knowledge and sharpening my ability to connect with others with understanding and compassion.

FootNotes is a magical tale of powerful goddesses, legends and mysticism. What inspired you to write this fantasy novel?

I wanted to pay homage to my mother and father. This is my way of demonstrating my supreme love for them and a testament to their majesty.

They taught us that it is the simple things in life that matter, that the best things in life are free, and to always have morals and values – to be polite, have good manners, take nothing for granted and always be honest.

They built a fortress around us for us to explore, to be ourselves, to run riot and to have an uninterrupted childhood. I can still remember as a child the times of happiness, chaos, joy, celebration and some pain and sadness.

My parents were honourable. They loved their children, were stern when they had to be, kind, funny, loving, helpful, caring and happy, and they always wanted the best for their children.

My childhood was an adventure filled with laughter, a lot of mischief and unconditional love.

My book honours my parents’ remarkable feats. It will be part of our family’s legacy, and we will always remember the sacrifices our parents made for us and their morals and values: honesty, respect, generosity, charity, good manners, politeness, perseverance and never ever giving up.

The main characters are Goddess Lusa annd Goddess Mulcapan. Are your characters based on observations of people you’ve come across in the past, places and incidents you’ve experienced? Who was the hardest character to portray? And the easiest?

You could gain inspiration from lifelong friends or from a stranger you’ve met on the train, but I’m not sure any of my characters are based on people I’ve met in the past. But then again, when writing, you dig deep within, and who knows what’s down there? But I would add that I believe the book will resonate with all of us, as we can see ourselves in these characters; this could be moral standards, principles, or how we respond to difficult situations, setbacks and failures, but also how we celebrate success, glory and victory.

The easiest character to portray was Goddess Lusa – until the moment came when it was time to kill her. This sent shivers down my spine, as I had built a strong relationship with her. I had total admiration for her and the journey she had set out upon, and when the time came to dispense with the character, I chickened out. I refused to write her out of the story, and then, from nowhere,inspiration came my way. I made her a goddess, and that move singlehandedlypropelled the story forward.

Goddess Kimuel was the hardest character to portray, simply because she played a bit part in the story. Initially she only featured in the first few pages, but, call it divine intervention, I found a way to make her a central feature, and I must give credit to my editor, who pointed out that we have a new voice but we don’t hear from her again, and it dawned on me that I have some great characters – now’s the time to develop them and their stories.

Being a male author, how did you prepare to write from a female perspective? 

WOW, what a compliment!

I must start with my mother, who was and still is an inspiration to me, for this was the woman who gave me life, who saw me safely into this world, who breastfed me, showed me love and allowed me to find myself. My mother had her own opinions; she would always follow her instincts, and she lived by her own morals and values. When push came to shove, my beautiful mother was unafraid to stand up for what she believed in. This lady was a true inspiration to me, and her ways still resonate with me to this day.

I might add, I come from a family of women. My parents had five children and I’m the only male – yes, four sisters and each and every one of them winds me up!

Were there any aspects of writing your book that surprised you, either by being harder or easier than you expected? 

The hardest part was ignoring my inner voice and staring down my fears – the fear of what others would think and say about my efforts, the fear of being harshly judged, of being ripped apart, the fear of rejection – but if you don’t ask the question, you will never find the answer.

For me it was a journey of the mind, to challenge myself, to put everything on the line – a way to express my supreme love for my mum and dad, to take myself on, to go to war with myself; the chance to stare down my fears and to do something that was totally out of character.

It was a way to dig deep into my soul and the emotions that surrounded it, a way to be open and honest with myself, an exploration of who I am and what I might become, and the chance to recreate myself.

I found the experience cathartic, cleansing; it enabled me to release my emotions and feel free and in harmony with myself.

Have you always wanted to have a career in writing or did you have other aspirations? 

There is a rage within me that finds no peace, and the only way I can soothe its soul is to write.

My aspiration has always been the same – to live life freely, to be creative and to be myself.

Are you a bookworm? What is your favourite genre and/or authors? Kindle or actual book? 

My preference is for autobiographies of people who have achieved meaningful things and lived their lives to the fullest. It allows you to see further because of what these people have achieved.

I feel it can promote and encourage self-discovery as well as offering new ideas and approaches to life.

One of my favourites was Nelson Mandela’s autobiography – a tale of courage, resilience, belief, hope and a better day for humanity – truly inspirational. I also like to read books on the different peoples of planet Earth; for me, this is a way for us to understand each other and gain an appreciation of different cultures,faiths and perspectives – an understanding that this world is a mosaic whose beauty lies in all its colours.

Can you remember who you were before the world told you who you should be? 

And my answer is yes, because I’ve never listened to anyone except my mum, my dad and myself in regards to who I should be.

If I was to point to one author, it would be Ursula K. Le Guin, and for the life of me, I’m unable to remember where I saw this particular quote, but it had a profound effect on me, and it’s simply this: ‘The creative adult is the child that survived.’

I recently reread a couple of her books, The Word for World is Forest and The Dispossessed.

Is FootNotes available to purchase worldwide?

It’s available worldwide through bookshops, internet booksellers and my website, and it’s also available as an ebook.

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

I like to create a relaxed yet stylish look – T-shirts or shirts with a casual jacket, jeans, and finished off with Church’s or Barker’s shoes, always polished.

Do you have any favourite shops or websites?

My favourite is charity shops; you never know what you might find!

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

A whole new wardrobe!

Boots or shoes, and why?

My mother would say the first thing people look at is your face, then your shoes, and nothing comes close to our British shoemakers: Church’s, Loake’s, Barker’s –craftsmanship and quality, and they last forever.

I adore boots, but I’m not sure they’re practical for everyday wear.

Any links you would like to share, e.g. website, Facebook, etc.?

My website: www.pagwayla.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/fondleytennerpalmer

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/fondley-tenner-palmer-5a8370173

Instagram: www.instagram.com/fondleytenner

Thank you for your time, and my wish is for members of the public to allow these characters a home within their imagination.

I would like to express my gratitude to Catherine Dunn, Elena Kale. Dunkan Norber. Elly Donovan, Rebecca and Andrew Brown and my daughter Olivia Palmer Creigg. Without you all there would be no Footnotes.

Thank you so much for joining me on the blog, Fondley. I definitely enjoyed allowing the goddesses to take up residence in my imagination and I thank you for my review copy of Footnotes.

Linda x

All photographs have been published with the kind permission of Fondley Tenner Palmer.

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Arts & Crafts, Reviews

A Day At The Essex Pottery Studio

It was one of those “tick off the bucket list” moments.

My husband, my mother in law and I enjoy watching the UK reality TV programme “ The Great Pottery Throwdown”. This show features a group of around 10 potters who battle it out each week, producing various clay products, one potter is dismissed at the end of each week, and eventually the grand winner is proclaimed. Each week so many beautiful pieces are lovingly crafted, each week the head judge has tears in his eyes as he exclaims how exquisite and beautiful the items are and occasionally there’s an odd dud and mishap too. Each week, my husband and mother in law and I exclaim how wonderful to be able to craft such beautiful pottery.

So, on the first day of May this year….which happened to be a very warm 25°C … my husband, my mother in law and I turned up at The Essex Pottery Studio, near Halstead in Essex. Being complete clay novices, we booked a 2 hour lesson on the potters wheel. The Essex Pottery Studio offers lessons to complete novices, and the price includes materials and the firing of the finished products.

Facing the wall in the studios were three potters wheels, ready and waiting. Our lovely teacher showed us first what to do with a demonstration on how to operate the pedal, how to wet the wheel base, how to throw a lump of clay onto the wheel, how to stick the clay onto the base by lovingly caressing it, how to put our fingers into the clay to make an opening whilst spinning the wheel, how to then pinch the edges to gently grow the pot, how to smooth the sides with a sponge not dissimilar to a make up sponge, how to gradually stop the wheel, and finally how to use wire to scrap the finished pot off the wheel and onto the board ready for firing. Easy peasy. She made it look easy.

We were ready to attempt two bowls ourselves. We had to take off our watches and rings, put on aprons and settle ourselves down onto the little stools perched next to the wheels. We were ready to make our masterpieces.

And that’s when the fun and games began. In order to get the clay to stick and to mould the wheel and the clay need to be constantly wet and the wheel needs to be spinning fast. Also you need to squat quite low on your stool with your elbows on your knees. It was extremely difficult to (a) remember not to have your elbows in the air – the pot flops (b) and to keep the speed up as the wet clay tended to fly off the wheel. Unfortunately to slow down the wheel you needed to press the pedal with your heel; pressing with your toes sped the wheel up…and taking your foot off the pedal did nothing at all. After rescuing the clay after sliding off the wheel a couple of times, we soon managed to start making pots.

We were ready to make our pot openings. Putting our middle finger and index finger together we pushed through the top of our little clay moulds and then very slowly we pinched the sides so they grew upwards. And voilà, our bowls were born. Unfortunately, my mother in law has arthritic fingers, so her pot opening wasn’t round as she had hoped and ended up making a plate instead!

Time for round 2. This time I made a flower pot 😊 No, it wasn’t my intention – my fingers just happened to protrude too far into my clay that I made a hole. Nevertheless I carried on. I must say that our second attempts were a lot better than our first. My husband created the best pots out of the three of us and seemed to have less mishaps than us girls!

I was so glad we wore aprons as by the end of the session we were covered in clay! We picked all the pots for firing…. and we haven’t yet picked them up for painting 😳 It was such a wonderful, fun afternoon and a great experience too. It was much harder than it looks to do so we have even more respect for those TV potters whose pots unfortunately turn wonky or don’t actually look like they were supposed to look, because we now know it is difficult to keep control of the wheel.

If you are looking for a fun activity to do then I would definitely recommend having lessons on a potters wheel!

Apart from the pottery lessons, The Essex Pottery Studio is a great place to pop in to visit – it is a ceramics & art studio so there are plenty of exquisite pottery and artwork for sale. There is a small tea room but unfortunately it wasn’t open when we visited. The studios have other activities such as PaintYour Own Pottery, Clay Hand Building and Glass Fusing workshops. They also host private parties, both adults and children, for birthdays, hen parties, business bonding etc. The Pottery Wheel lessons are for available for absolute beginners – 1 or 2 hours and price includes clay and firing. The potters wheel is also available to be used outside of lessons but the only stipulation is that the clay used is purchased from them. The Essex Pottery Studio is open 7 days a week, 10.00 – 16.00. For more details : https://essexpotterystudio.co.uk

This isn’t a sponsored post. We bought the lessons actually as a birthday gift for my mother in law and husband and I decided to tag along! We enjoyed ourselves so much, I thought it was worth giving The Essex Pottery Studio a shout out on the blog.

Why don’t you give it a go?

Linda x

Photos: Linda Hobden


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Beauty/Hair, Health/Fitness/Sport, Reviews

Review: Dr Anders Professional Footcare

This week I’m reviewing a range of foot creams supplied by Dr Judith Anders for the purpose of this review. All opinions expressed are 100% mine.

THE BRAND

Dr Anders Professional Footcare Range was founded by podiatrist Dr Judith Anders. It is a results-driven skincare brand specifically for feet. Dr Anders has been a podiatrist for over 20 years, and she wanted to produce products that combine medical grade efficacy but also keep that luxury skincare feeling. The products are available via Amazon and selected professional clinics, and there are links to Amazon via her shop on her website, https://FeelYourFeet.com . Her website is a foot health community dedicated to all things footcare – her blogposts are interesting and informative – well worth a read !

For pinning later

THE PRODUCTS

The products I am reviewing are the Intensive Rescue Balm, Nourishing Daily Therapy, Conditioning Nail Treatment. The products have been made to target common foot concerns such as dry & cracked heels, rough skin, nail health and so on. The products have all been formulated in the UK using natural ingredients that are free from harmful toxic chemicals , are suitable for all skin types, including people with diabetes. This is great news for me – I wanted crack free heels so as I can don my sling backs; I have dry eczema patches on the tops of my feet which often makes my skin feel tight and scaly; and my toe nails are a tad on the hard side. I was really looking forward to trying out these products!

The ingredients used in the products include:

  • Coconut Oil – moisturiser, anti inflammatory, anti oxidant, anti bacterial & hydrating
  • Grapeseed Oil – rich in beta carotene and vitamins C,D & E. Essential nutrients to nourish skin and nails.
  • Tamanu Oil – anti -inflammatory, anti microbial, anti oxidant
    • Thuja – anti viral & antifungal properties to help prevent against viral and fungal infections

INTENSIVE RESCUE BALM

A non greasy cream formula that dries to a really silky finish, leaving the skin really hydrated. The cream contains 10% urea to break down hardened skin and eliminate cracks and fissures. The cream is enriched with a blend of opus oil, colloidal oat ,vitamin E and thuja.

This is pure luxury in a jar. I used the cream primarily on the tops of my feet to help ease my eczema and it did the trick . My feet no longer feel “tight” at tops and I took it on holiday with me where I used the cream to soothe my feet after I had exposed them to the sun too.

NOURISHING DAILY THERAPY

This is a velvety lightweight oil spray that has the unique ability to be sprayable at any angle, so you really don’t need to be a contortionist to use this! The spray nourishes and restores dry skin – not surprising really when you consider that this spray is a unique blend of coconut and tamanu oils, known to hydrate. This was perhaps my favourite item – each night I have liberally sprayed my feet, top and bottom and heels. It is very cooling after being on my feet all day at work, it’s softening and has a delightful subtle smell. Funnily enough although it contains coconut oil it doesn’t smell of coconuts. It is a little oilier than a dry oil spray but it doesn’t take long to absorb – I would suggest using the product last thing before jumping into bed, especially if you don’t have carpeted floors. I didn’t cover my feet with bed socks, too warm for that, but I was pleased to discover that the oil didn’t rub off onto my sheets.

CONDITIONING NAIL TREATMENT

This is a brush on cream that you “paint” onto clean, dry nails. The cream is quick to absorb and easy to apply. The formula contains sodium thiosulphate which helps to combat hardness, as well as a blend of castor, grapeseed and sunflower oils . The treatment strengthens nails, and conditions and improves brittleness. With regular use, the treatment strengthens nails will improve the appearance of the nails, reduce thickness and make them softer and easier to manage. I cannot give an accurate review on this product because I have not used it regularly yet but, if the results are like the other two creams I have tried daily for a while, I have no doubt it would work like a dream.

MY CONCLUSION

I am extremely impressed and grateful that I have had a chance to use these products. They have certainly worked a treat on my feet. I have used other foot gels and creams before but Dr Anders cream and spray are definitely a cut above those I’ve tried before. Price wise, they cost around £12 each – slightly more than similar supermarket products – but I wouldn’t hesitate to buy Dr Anders. My feet feel soft, silky and are currently eczema free and to me, they are worth every penny. Especially the spray. I love that spray! 10/10

My thanks to Dr Judith Anders for the products to review

All photographs are by Linda Hobden

Linda x


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Books, Interview, Life Issues/ Motivational Posts

An Interview With Francis Keith Robins, Mathematical Genius


This week my guest on the blog is Francis Keith Robins, a mathematical genius . Admittedly his interest in fashion is practically non existent but he has just written a book called “The Fourth Coming – How God Mathematics Can Put The World To Rights” and I was intrigued by his ideas. And I have never met a mathematical genius before. And fortunately he was gallant enough to be interviewed by me….so, welcome …😀

Hello. My name is Francis Keith Robins, known as Keith. Age 79, single and born in Birkenhead – I am mathematical and philosophical genius, although not being very clever as it is due to my hypersensitivity and hyperactive mind that I rejected, as a youngster, information relating to the outside world and I devised a thinking strategy which everyone can employ. Thus, my consciousness and subconsciousness came in line on becoming an adult i.e. not adulterated e.g. with perceptions.

Maths genius – devised a mathematical model for any system or experience

Philosophical genius – solved consciousness which is, per New Scientist, one of the greatest mysteries of science or philosophy e.g. recognise that the world that surround us can be represented by a set of knowledge i.e. mathematically. I also devised an objective thinking strategy which is the way the mind should operate – which philosophers said was not possible.

What made you decide to write your book “The Fourth Coming – How God Mathematics Can Put The World To Right”?

The idea started when I left work. A psychiatrist analysed the way I thought and found it different from normal and suggested I contact a university. I was signed off mentally ill to promote my mission i.e. change the way people thought. God initially both helped me and also sent encouraging signals. The Fourth Coming relates to the conclusion that Jesus would come three times as my mission is to save the world using God Word i.e. mathematics.

Your book introduces the approach to reshaping our thought processes through mathematics and the idea of solving the world’s problems using a form of mathematics known as God Mathematics.  Could you give us a quick example of a world problem & how it could potentially be solved by using this approach?

I have devised a mathematical model of 15 classes of knowledge plus using set thinking to gather all knowledge for a given experience of system. It is difficult to give a quick example but I will try – one of the 15 classes of knowledge that represents any experience, is the associated mistakes and precautions. These models, I envisage, would be shared nationally and internationally so this would deter people learning by making mistaking e.g. climate prevent measures with set thinking [One could ask whether you have a complete set i.e. you have identified all members- which makes it a powerful thinking tool] 

Solar panel – sets

(a) set of elements that make up the subject e.g. screws, plates etc.

(b) ‘classify’ a climate prevention measure ‘expand’ wind turbines seagrass, harness moving water e.g. waterfall

(c) set of buildings with X characteristics which can have solar panels

(d) set of places where solar panels can be installed – on water, on land, on buildings etc.

plus best practised would be shared to make the world a better place.

These mathematical models could be used instead of debates as it is a more efficient way of gathering knowledge.

When someone says “Mathematics” to me I have visions of sums; so what exactly is God Mathematics?

I conclude God is a mathematical being as evidenced with set framework of Period Table, fractal design of physical features, pattern of DNA, the mathematical way the mind should operate, etc. The mathematics principles does not involved numbers. Instead it is based on the definition of a set i.e. a group of objects with specific characteristics, which is fundamental in maths and languages natural mathematical properties e.g. you can be represented by a set of knowledge – feet ‘classify’ a physical feature, ‘expand’ eyes etc. This classification can be raised to include all knowledge associated with you. Hence everyone can be represented by a unique set of information. People often wrongly apply set thinking when they have a bad experience e.g. with a policeman – they conclude all police are bad.

What exactly triggered your lightbulb moment that made you realise your life and the world’s problems in general, was indeed possible to be solved through following mathematical principles?

When I created a mathematical model of any system or experience.

Is there a significant reason why this approach is known as “God” mathematics?  Are there religious elements to the approach?

Background: I am not religious. In fact, as a youngster I attended Sunday school and one day I came home and told my mother I could not keep the rules of church and so would it be alright if I just consider the effects of my decisions. Mother replied that is all that God would want. It is known as ‘God’ mathematics because God is a mathematical being. He designed us in His image i.e. using their brains as simple mathematical machine. I conclude that God introduced religion because people were not using their brains in the way He intend, objectively v subjectively

Growing up, did you always want a “mathematical” based career or did you want to pursue a completely different direction?

I remember as an infant in a pram asking my mother what the numbers of the houses were. I took and gained A level Chemistry [school prize] and mathematics. I took and gained a mathematical degree even though my mathematics A level was worse. Numbers followed me to work when I was an external auditor. I have not read a book from cover to cover due to my hyperactive mind.

In your book, you mention that to maximise the potential of this new order, we need to change what children are taught in preparation for adulthood. Could you give an example?

Children should be taught an objective thinking strategy i.e. not creating perceptions, instead allowingthings to go over their head, e.g. having a general view of the NHS when a complete audit is required to establish the truth and the information is not needed. They should concentrate on living their life in a bubble, i.e. without the troubles of the world resting on their shoulders. They would also be taught set thinking plus mathematical models to represent the outside world [others, socialisation, common errors, potty training, importance of have a routine etc.]

Is your book “The Fourth Coming – How God Mathematics Can Put The World To Rights”  available to purchase worldwide?

As the book can be obtained through Amazon the book is available worldwide. The publishers Austin Macauley publishers can deliver worldwide.

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

Nothing special

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites ?

Lidl, Asda.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

None – do not change for fashion – do not see any reason for changing regularly

Boots or Shoes?

None

Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook etc

www.powerofobjectivethinking.com

Thank you for joining us on the blog, Keith.

Linda x

All photographs have been published with the kind permission of Francis Keith Robins

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Home Furnishings, Interview

An Interview With Floordrobe

Picture the scene: you are getting ready for bed and you are taking off your clothes – where do they land? On the floor in a heap 😳? On a chair as they are not dirty & can be worn again? Or do you take the time and put them back in your wardrobe or into the laundry basket? My guest this week is Jon Thurling, founder of Floordrobe – the perfect solution to clothes on the chair syndrome! Welcome to the blog, Jon…

Hello! I’m Jon Thurling the founder of Floordrobe®. I’m South African, born in Johannesburg and moved to the UK almost two years ago. I’ve been around a bit though; spent a couple of years in Amsterdam. So, I guess you could say that Floordrobe® came about through my experience living in different, great but cramped cities. Beyond that, I say I’m relatively “normal” if that’s a word; work, eat, sleep, play. I’m kind of happy with this lifestyle. I enjoy having a beer on the weekend and attacking Monday morning in the same vein. 

What inspired the setting up of your company, Floordrobe?

It was really the problem that led to a solution which led to a product which then led to a business. When I first moved to London, my girlfriend, at the time, and I didn’t have space to put our worn-but-clean clothes and so, one slow day working from home, I thought, “you know what, I can make something that solves this problem.” An early version of the Floordrobe® was produced and then I thought, “hey, maybe other people would be interested in this!” And from then on, we had a little business. 

The Floordrobe® is indeed a stylish way to de clutter and organise your semi clean clothes instead of dumping your clothes on a chair or floor! What’s the Floordrobe® dimensions? And is it easy to assemble?

The Floordrobe® stands 160 cm tall, and 45cm wide. It is dead easy to assemble (and purposefully designed to be so). I have assembled a few in my time and, now have a running record of how fast I can assemble it. I’m currently at 2m 34 seconds. 

The Floordrobe® is made of durable acacia wood & recyclable materials. Is the Floordrobe® only available in the wood/metal set up or are there other colours available?

Yes, currently it is only available in high quality Acacia wood and black powder coat steel. As I said, the business just evolved and so now we are looking into different types. I think there is a whole range that can be explored. Different colours are definitely an option (we are thinking a dusty white painted one would be nice) and we are also thinking about different designs with some free-standing units, smaller more compact units. There is a lot going on!

What are the benefits of using acacia wood? 

The main benefits of the Acacia are twofold. First,  it is sustainably harvested in Vietnam. We are ensuring that the Floordrobe®’s we make are made from sustainable sources. Wood is only a sustainable resource insofar as you harvest it sustainably. Secondly, it looks and feels great. As opposed to a plywood cupboard, the wood of the Floordrobe® is going to be visible in your bedroom all the time and so you want something that is high quality and easy on the eye, something you are proud of purchasing, and we feel Floordrobe®’sAcacia wood accomplishes this. 

 As your HQ is  based in the UK, are your products available to purchase internationally?

Yes, so our products are available throughout the UK and in the US. We offer affordable 48-hourdelivery to all customers in the UK. For the US, we are currently shipping from our distribution centre in Bristol, UK. This means that delivery times are longer and it is a little more expensive. We are looking into creating a supply chain in the US that will help us bring the price point down for our US customers. 

The Floordrobe® is manufactured in Vietnam, although stored and despatched from Bristol.  Why did you pick Vietnam specifically for manufacturing the Floordrobe?

We chose Vietnam half with the heart and half with the head. From the heart, I had travelled a bit of Vietnam as a student and thoroughly enjoyed the people, the culture and the food and so when I was looking for a place to manufacture the Floordrobe® Vietnam was high on the list. It just so happened that Vietnam has a world class furniture manufacturing industry and so, voila, Vietnam itwas. And I can say, it has been a great experience so far. Working with our Vietnamese partners has been a pleasure. 

Have you got any other new furniture ideas in the pipeline to add to the Floordrobe?

 Right now, we are focused on the worn but clean clothes problem. As I said, I think there is still so much to do in the space. We really dream of Floordrobe® becoming a household name. But, as an entrepreneur, I am always scheming. A thought we had the other day was something that holds the lid of your pot when you open it to stir. I never know where to put the lid. It’s hot and wet and so the counter doesn’t feel right yet that’s where it goes. I suggested this to my friend and he thought I should call it Sous Chef, which I thought was a great name although its probably taken. Also no dibs on the idea, if one of your readers wants to run with it, then they should reach out!

Growing up, had you always inspired to be a furniture designer or did your aspirations lay elsewhere?

No, I would be lying if I said I aspired to be a furniture designer. I would have to say I aspired to be a sportsman. And to be honest, at the moment, I don’t really think of myself as a furniture designer but more of a creator. That’s the part of the business I really enjoy, creating, sampling, testing and releasing products and seeing how customers react to the product. It’s an amazing feeling to see someone’s reaction to something you thought of. 

Although you are based in the UK,  you have visited Vietnam. What 5 must see places or experiences would you recommend a tourist visit or do whilst in Vietnam? 

Oh man, that’s a good question. So, a few things, the trip from North (Hanoi) to South (Ho Chi Minh) is epic and I would suggest that to everybody. We unfortunately had to cut our trip a little short and couldn’t do the full trip but I will go back and do every stop on that trip. To get more definitive, top three highlights were the following. Hạ Long Bay blew me away. I completely underestimated the natural beauty of the place. It will stay with me forever. Next, I would say the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh was really powerful. I am a bit of a history nut and so spent hours in it. It was really interesting to see the perspective of the Vietnam war from the Vietnamese. Next, the Mekong Delta and doing the Vietnamese war tunnels was also a great experience. I am a tall guy so going through some of the tiny tunnels for only 5 minutes was truly an experience. Lastly, just crossing the road is an experience! It is one of those places where the scooters and bikes just pass you and you are the one you mustn’t hesitate. You need to put your head down and walk!

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

I am a uniform kind of man to be honest. In the week, I have a pair of jeans and a pair of chinos, along with 5 Shirts and so I wear one a day with either my Chelsea boots in winter or sneakers in the summer (or maybe shorts if we are feeling a bit spicy). And of course, half my shirts go onto my Floordrobe® which is in use all the time!

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites? (Apart from your own!)

Ah great question, I would even say that while I think ours is good, I look to others and think that is a great store. I’ve just bought a pair of sunglassfrom Messy Weekend and that was a great experience. I also love the name. Next to that I am actually a big Huel person. I love the product, the brand, the website. It is a product I use so often and have such a good experience with that I hope one day people will look at their Floordrobe® in the same way.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

 I know its right at the end of the season, but this winter I really missed out on a long black or brown trench coat. I need something that is a bit formal, but sleek and warm. But now we are in spring so that ship has probably sailed until next winter. 

Boots or Shoes?

I’m more of a shoes person hey. Although saying that, I wore my Chelsea boots almost every day this winter! No, I say shoes because I am a shorts guy and so when I wear my shorts (which is whenever he sun is up), I’ll probably be putting on my sneakers, Birkenstocks or flip flops. With these shoes, especially, my sneakers I feel comfortable yet active (which is a nice way to walk around London). 

Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook/twitter etc so that readers can find out more about Floordrobe

a. Floordrobe.co

b. IG: the_floor_drobe

c. FB: The Floordrobe® 

d. TT: @floor_drobe

Great to chat to you Jon and what a fab idea!

Linda x

All photographs have been published with the kind permission of Jon Thurling/Floordrobe.

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Books, Interview, Reviews

Author Interview: Opëshum

I’m privileged this week to interview on the blog the reclusive writer, Opëshum, who lives in rural Wyoming. Her award winning science fiction stories are pure joy to read and “Beyond The Father” is just the first book of an eight part series. Here’s a quick summary of “Beyond The Father”:

BOOK SUMMARY

“Beyond the Father” sets the scene for the 8-book Sci-Fi Epic “gods on Trial: The Series™,” delving into life’s determination to transcend all limitation.

A uniquely different world to explore…
Set on the planet Xżyber, citizens of the Sub-Median Region, imperfectly reborn into metal, oppress those who are organic. Elsewhere, in the Central Kingdom, religion supports royalty’s brutal domination of the lowest class.

Rife with mounting tension…
War over scarce resources is coming, revolution within each region is brewing, and none know of the eccentric god who created them. This being watches, has fascinating conversations with his often-wiser companion, occasionally learns, and rarely intervenes.

A struggle for survival and existence…
The many levels and threads of struggle distract nearly all from a far greater threat. Meanwhile, the young Prince Anglid’s vision quest into the unexplored Area X may ultimately change everything. However, just when you think you know the direction of the story, the author has yet another surprise.

THE INTERVIEW

A big warm welcome to the blog, Opëshum…. Please introduce yourself 😊

I am Opëshum. And I will ask you to forgive me for my unwillingness to be seen. It is due to the fact that my appearance is likened more to an extraterrestrial than to what you would consider human. I therefore prefer to dwell in the background as the world embraces the many characters I have had the good fortune to bring to the the world.  They are both an extension of me and also entities of their own. 

I am an avid nature lover, and deeply appreciate being near the mountains and the ocean, whether the skies are stormy or calm. In essence, it is nature that inspires me.

“Beyond The Father ” is the first in the series of  8 books : a multi award winning story of man versus machine, rich versus poor; and an erratic God that created and may destroy everything. What inspired the book series? 

It’s a fair question, and I will provide you an honest answer. As I noted in Book 1 of the series, that I dedicated that work to the inhabitants of Xżyber, where the story takes place. This book series is the result of a conversation I am having with them, whereby they help me to channel the and capture the details of their journey. I am honored to have been selected to represent them. 

The characters of Prince Anglid, Queen Eveline, King Thio & Anya, for example,are your characters based on observations of people you’ve come across in the past, places and incidents you’ve experienced ? Who was the hardest character to portray? And, the easiest?

The prince, princess, King and Queen are unlike anyone I have consciously met in my life. In that way they are a breath of unexpected wind —of fresh air.

I think that King Thio is by far the hardest because he is so complex, with many layers that sometimes contradict themselves. I am still discovering him. 

Were there any aspects of writing your book series that surprised you, either by being harder or easier to write about than you expected?

I was surprised to learn that I was not in charge of the story. The characters have been forthright and earnest about how they want to be represented, and at times they don’t always agree with the way I may start or even develop a chapter. They are helpful in achieving to guide the story as much as I am. I have been surprised that it has required a partnership between myself and each of the characters in order to successfully complete each character. 

I came across an old recording of an interview the BBC had with author Enid Blyton recently, where Enid explained that she did no preparation before writing her books.  She just sat at her typewriter and typed the stories as they flowed from her mind.  I hear you are a modern day “Enid” – that you wrote the entire book in the “Notes” app on  your iPhone! Why did you decide to use the Notes app as opposed to more conventional methods? Wasn’t you afraid of deleting or losing your work?

What a delight to be associated with such a prolific author! I would say that in reality, the iPhone is always going to be my tool of choice. It is light, efficient, and allows me to write wherever I am. For writers who experience the characters in their books tapping on their shoulders for attention, the iPhone may be the right tool for them as well, given the fact that it allows one to create a writing space wherever they are.

Have you always wanted to have a career as an author or did you have other aspirations? 

I have always been a writer, and although I once fancied the idea of being a filmmaker, it ultimately comes back to writing for me. 

 Are you a bookworm? What is your favourite genre and/or authors? 

I was a language and literature major in college, and was influenced by the world’s most famous Russian, German, and Central American writers in history. Pushkin, Goethe, Dostoevsky and Ernesto Cardenal had a profound influence on how I express myself work. Interestingly, I am not a bookworm. 

Is “Beyond The Father” available to purchase worldwide?

Yes, and it is most accessible through Amazon Kindle. 

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

A large whimsical hat, sun dress made of bamboo or cotton when it’s warm, and sandals or a nice pair of soft leather boots…all while being veiled. 

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites ?

I love thrift stores, actually. The smell of old fabrics evokes a sense of history.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

I am in search of a great pair of hiking boots for my next trip to Iceland. 

Boots or Shoes?

I would have to say both, because it depends upon the mood of the day. 

Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook etc 

 Beyond the Father (Gods on Trial #1) by Opëshum | Goodreads

It has been an honour to chat to you Opëshum, thank you for agreeing to be interviewed. Thanks also to Ben Cameron of Cameron Publicity & Marketing for the review copy of “Beyond The Father”

All photographs have been published with the kind permission of Opëshum.

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Books, Interview, Reviews

Trespassers & Other Stories Book Tour

I’m so pleased to be part of Aine Greaney’s “Trespassers & Other Stories” book tour. All the stories have an Ireland/America connection and so it’s not surprising to hear that the author, Aine Greaney, is an Irish native now living in the Boston area. I loved all the stories in the book so I am also pleased to welcome Aine onto the blog…but first, here’s a quick book summary.

BOOK SUMMARY

From coastal Massachusetts to rural Ireland, the characters in Trespassers struggle to reconcile past and present, place and displacement, loss and hope.

A woman travels from her Massachusetts home to her native Irish village to care for her estranged and sick father. Back in her childhood home, she comes face-to-face with previously unspoken losses.

A wealthy couple travels to Cape Cod to spend their 52nd summer on the wife’s ancestral estate. On their private beach above Nantucket Sound, the husband must confront the realities of their long marriage and its social-class tensions.

An Irish immigrant takes her American-born teen to a raucous Boston house party. At that party, the teenager discovers that her mother had lied about her child’s birth father—a lie that will permanently divide the mother and daughter.

PUBLISHER: Sea Crow Press

ISBN-10: 1961864207

ISBN-13  978-1961864207

Print Length: 130 pages

Purchase a copy of Trespassers and Other Stories on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Bookshop.org. You can also add this to your GoodReads reading list.

MY INTERVIEW

Hi Aine, and a big warm welcome onto the blog 👋

Hello. I’m Áine Greaney and I live here in Massachusetts, USA. I’m originally from the west of Ireland. I started writing while settling into and adapting to life here.  In the U.S., I also went back to college for a master’s degree.  When my first short story was published in a U.S. journal, I really thought they had sent the letter to the wrong person or address!

Who or what inspired you to write your collection of short stories of “Trespassers & Other Stories”?

About half of the stories had been written and published as stand-alone pieces. The other half, still sitting in my computer, needed to be edited and cleaned up. One day, when I did a big read-through, I saw a recurring theme of place and displacement or of women living in misfit places. 

 “Trespassers & Other Stories  ” is a collection of short stories based on Ireland/America connection! The characters are quite a varied bunch – my favourite story was the American born girl who went to a raucous party with her Irish born mum (and accidentally finds out the identity of her birth father) I did feel sorry for her!!  

Did you base a lot of the characters on you and people you’ve met in life?

Thank you. And what a great question, Linda! I don’t think I can base any one character on a real-life person. Though once, when I went on a holiday to Barbados, I did actually meet a person who inspired the character in the story, “A Fine Lady Guest.” But of course, I made that fictional character much more arrogant and tone deaf than her real-life counterpart. For the other stories, I think certain human traits are mushed together to create the characters.  

Which short story did you enjoy writing about the most?  

I did enjoy writing your favourite story, “That Night,” about the girl who realizes her mother has lied about her birth father. Though in later drafts, I had to ramp up the tension and the conflict for a better story. Like you, I also really liked that teenage character.  

Which character was the hardest to portray?

I found the character in “What We Remember” hard to write. Don’t get me wrong. I really wanted to write that story. But while she is quite snooty and full of herself, she is also a sad character.  She has more self-delusion and loneliness than she ever wants to admit to. As we see at story’s end, her posh Dublin job or house or her family wealth cannot protect her from that loneliness. 

Were there any aspects of writing the stories that surprised you, pleasantly or otherwise? 

For those previously published stories, I was surprised by how much I had over-written them. By extension, I was surprised that publishers of those literary magazines hadn’t thought they were over-written, too. I think this is about the passage of time and changing trends. Over the years, we change as writers and as readers. Recently, I saw some research that says we all have less appetite now for reading longer, “flowerier” or overblown prose. 

If you could visit any country/place in the world, to base a future collection of short stories in, where would you go and why? 

Oh, my. This is another great question. I think I would like to go to Kenya or Nigeria. I’m not sure why, but those are places I’ve always wanted to visit. Closer to home, I would love to go back to Portugal. I’ve been there twice (three if you count a trip to the Azores, too), to both seaside and city, and just felt really comfortable there.

 Are you a bookworm? What is your favourite genre and/or authors? Kindle or actual book? 

I was about eight when I discovered my first Enid Blyton children’s book.  Blyton was a UK-based author who, back then, was really popular. I’ve been an avid reader ever since, and go back and forth between actual books and Kindle. I still prefer the real book in my hand, but a Kindle book is great for when you’re stuck on a bus or a plane. I mostly read fiction, but often veer off into memoir.  A few of my favourite fiction authors are Penelope Lively, Nicole Dennis Benn, Maggie O’ Farrell, Zadie Smith, Caryl Phillips and others. 

Is “Trespasser & Other Stories” available to purchase worldwide?

Yes. I believe so. At least, I just saw it up on that giant online bookshop (begins with an “A” (smile).

Growing up had you always wanted to be a writer or teacher or did you have other career aspirations?

Another lovely and thoughtful question! Being a child reader and a lover of libraries, I did fantasize about being a writer. At age 17, I went to university to be a primary-school teacher in Ireland. But I discovered that wasn’t the career for me.  Then, years later in America, I was invited to lead an adult writing workshop and immediately loved it. So I’m still writing and teaching writing for community groups. I also work as a writer for a healthcare non-profit—which I also enjoy a lot. 

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

For my day job and for my virtual writing classes, I work from a home office. Sothere are mornings when I’m delighted that the Zoom camera only captures a *certain* amount of the outfit! But mostly, I’m in comfortable jeans, a colourful shirt and, if it’s cold, a cardigan or jacket. 

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites?

One of the few positives of our worldwide pandemic is that we have taught ourselves to live with less. Since switching to a work-from-home office, I have cut way, way back on any shopping. All that said, a vintage find in charity or vintage shop always brings a thrill.  

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

Summer stuff! The last three summers here in coastal Massachusetts have been hot, hot, hot. 

Boots or Shoes?

I’m a big, big walker. I also belong to a women’s hiking group. So definitely runners or sneakers and I keep a pair of hikers right in my car. If I’m going out, I like to wear my black, ankle-length boots. 

Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook etc

Website: https://www.ainegreaney.com

Instagram: ainegreaney

Bluesky: ainegreaney.bsky

Facebook: Aine Greaney, Writer

Threads: ainegreaney

BOOK TOUR DATES

Great chatting to a fellow Enid Blyton fan! 😊 Thank you for the review copy of your book “Trespassers & Other Stories” and for having me join you on your book tour!

Linda x

All photographs have been published with the kind permission of Aine Greaney; the Aer Lingus aeroplane photo was taken by Linda Hobden

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