Author Research – Gems in Paranormal Gloucestershire

Author research in Gloucestershire for me means a photography trip as well, in order to gather the best images to go with my stories. This is for my forthcoming nonfiction book ‘Paranormal Gloucestershire‘ which is to be published by Amberley and which I will deliver to the publishers before October 2024, for publication in 2025.Continue reading “Author Research – Gems in Paranormal Gloucestershire”

A Visit to the Newly-Reopened Lord Leycester Hospital in Warwick December 2023

Lord Leycester Hospital is one of the town of Warwick‘s great medieval treasures, formerly a home for the Brethren (injured military heroes of Queen Elizabeth I‘s wars), and the pride and joy of Sir Robert Dudley, Earl of Leycester, from 1571, the time when he first took it over to please Elizabeth. It is nowContinue reading “A Visit to the Newly-Reopened Lord Leycester Hospital in Warwick December 2023”

A Visit to Denis Severs’ House, Spitalfields, East London

We recently visited Dennis’ Severs’ House at 18 Folgate Street, Spitalfields. This was a revelation to me, and I’ve discovered new things since my visit, about Dennis himself, his life, the creation of the interiors in the House, and the life of the Spitalfields community around him, which make the visit an even more poignantContinue reading “A Visit to Denis Severs’ House, Spitalfields, East London”

Book Launch for ‘A-Z of Warwick’ by SC Skillman pub Amberley

I enjoyed my book launch event at Warwick Visitor Centre on Saturday, 25 November 2023. Thank you to the Warwick Visitor Centre staff for making space for us next to the new Guy of Warwick exhibition (which was fascinating). Thank you too to fellow author Fran Hill, whose very funny and highly acclaimed novel, ‘CuckooContinue reading “Book Launch for ‘A-Z of Warwick’ by SC Skillman pub Amberley”

My new book ‘A-Z of Warwick’ is out now from Amberley

I’m delighted to announce that my new book ‘A-Z of Warwick‘ is now available online and in all bookshops. This completes my trilogy of Warwickshire books – ‘Paranormal Warwickshire‘, ‘Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire’ and now ‘A-Z of Warwick’. As with all my Warwickshire books, William Shakespeare has something to say, at the head of everyContinue reading “My new book ‘A-Z of Warwick’ is out now from Amberley”

Tolcarne Beach, Newquay, Cornwall

Here I am in Cornwall and, as always, for someone who lives in the Midlands, mesmerised by the sea! I think these photos tell the story, with little need for more words. The last few photos are of Tolcarne Beach Village, and, best of all, the ‘Colonial’ beach bar and restaurant… The pumpkins will tellContinue reading “Tolcarne Beach, Newquay, Cornwall”

The Beauty of the Sea: East Sussex Coast, England

Today, I share photos of the south coast of England where I’ve just spent four days. Eastbourne, Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters together form one of England’s loveliest coastlines. Enjoy these images. Seagulls, sky, sun, water, pebbly beaches, chalk cliffs and walks to the lighthouse all combine to give you this beauty. Why notContinue reading “The Beauty of the Sea: East Sussex Coast, England”

New book coming 2024/25: Paranormal Gloucestershire

I’m pleased to announce that I’ve just signed a contract to write a fourth book for Amberley which is Paranormal Gloucestershire. I’ve already begun visiting some of the fascinating locations in Gloucestershire which have a rich history and are surrounded by many curious tales. These include some of the locations shown above: Woodchester Mansion, TewkesburyContinue reading “New book coming 2024/25: Paranormal Gloucestershire”

Book Review: ‘How the Irish Saved Civilization’ by Thomas Cahill

How the Irish Saved Civilization by Thomas Cahill has the subtitle: ‘The Untold Story of Ireland’s Heroic Role from the Fall of Rome to the Rise of Medieval Europe.’ I loved the title of this book and was led to read it after I visited Tintagel; the Roman remains and exhibition at St Albans; andContinue reading “Book Review: ‘How the Irish Saved Civilization’ by Thomas Cahill”

Sunset over the Sea at Newquay, Cornwall

Today I share some views from Narrowcliff at Newquay, Cornwall. I took these photos on 6th and 7th July 2023. Sometimes blogs are best with fewer words! Sign up here to join my mailing list. I send out a monthly newsletter in which I share gems and snippets from my research discoveries, and news andContinue reading “Sunset over the Sea at Newquay, Cornwall”