PHOTOS
This page is a picture gallery of some of the research, signing sessions, launches and parties linked to my novels. These are all the fun bits that take place before and after the slog of writing.
Going the Distance
1. Me in the grandstand at Epsom on Derby Day, taking a refreshment break while researching the finer points for Going the Distance.
2. From l to r: Corinne, Pat and Delia at Epsom. For as long as I can remember we've had a "Girls' Day Out" at the Derby. A huge crowd of us always go and have a great time. Maddy and Fran's exploits in Going the Distance were based on things that Pat and I had done on various Derby Days. In this pic, Delia was wearing the hat for a bet and looks as though she's backed a loser.
3. Pat and Delia at Epsom, Delia still wearing the hat but looking as though she may have picked a winner. Pat, as usual, being "where the boys are"...
Running the Risk
4. Some of the many lorry drivers who were so helpful when I was researching Running the Risk being brave enough to read what I'd done with their expertise.
From l to r: Rob, Sally, John, (me of course) and Andy.
Stealing the Show
5. Me with my best writing mate, Linda Taylor, outside "my" Waterstones window at the launch party for Stealing the Show. I'm wearing one of my many "disaster" outfits...
6. Happily signing my entire backlist so they can't be returned to the publisher. Notice Marina Oliver doing a wonderful PR job in the centre background.
7. John and Hilary Johnson (from The Hilary Johnson Authors' Advisory Service - without whose expert help and advice I'd never have been published) as you've probably never seen them before. The ensuing "Johnson Balloon Dance" went down in the annals of book launch history.
8. Sarah Molloy, my agent, with John and Hilary (minus balloons) obviously sharing the amusing tale of how I'm dressed wrongly - again.
9. Linda Taylor and Katie Fforde showing how easy it is to look elegant and get the clothes exactly right for every occasion...