Is it worth investing in yourself?

Evening gang,

Regulars will know I've spent a few quid on myself this year so far in the interests of promotion and selling more books. Some have worked quite well, some have ben utter crap. But I'll be sticking at it.

I'm just having a discussion with a musician mate of mine who invests hundreds, maybe even thousands of pounds in himself in terms of mastering his music, PR etc. Compared to the few pounds I've spent it's a big deal so I'm left wondering if I should really throw money at my books, invest in some proper promo etc and see what happens. As ever my big concern is that working full time will get in the way and I won't be able to take full advantage of it.

In other news the latest book is pouring out of me. Cleared the 17,000 word mark earlier. I imagine I'll get beyond 20,000 before work on Monday and then I suspect things will slow right down again. Can't be helped. The good thing is it's taken me less than two weeks to write all that and it's pretty good. I haven't done any promo or any editing of my other book, but it's been worth it to get the new material out. I've got a pretty clear idea where the various plot threads are going, although there are always random tangents which make it fun, so hopefully I can keep plodding even while at work.

Mind you, if I'm not successful in applying for the upcoming job, or I just don't apply, I'll be back in my old job by the end of June, so I'll have all the time I need to finish the book. Silver lining to the harsh reality of the pay cut.

Anyway, if you could spread the word that my other books are still available that would be super. It's also worth mentioning that I'll be doing 3 appearances in Morecambe at the end of this month. I'll be sending the posters out shortly, so I'll post one on here when it's done. If you want a book signed, or just want to talk to me about writing, or anything else, come along.  I'll post times and venues nearer the time .

Right, quick brew break and then perhaps another hour on the novel before we start the evening session.

Music in Books

Afternoon folk,

Quick one this. As you'll know if you've read anything I've written I use a lot of music in my books whether it be references to bands, lyrical references, characters liking certain bands etc. This isn't a new thing and tons of writers do it but I like it as it allows me to add certain moods to scenes and it gives more depth to a character if we know what kind of tunes they like.

So, the point of today's post is to say that I've added a scene to the new book where Rupert, who is in reflective mood following the unearthing of a photo album containing pictures of his best friend Mitch and deceased lover Emily together, is sitting with his eyes closed, drinking a beer and listening to Music from Big Pink by The Band.

I did this partly because I'm a fan (I also share a first name with the guitarist) but also because of the news that Levon Helm is nearing the end in his battle with cancer. As such, if you are familiar with the music of The Band, you'll totally understand what I'm saying. If you're not, stop reading this and to Amazon and buy their stuff, you'll love it.