Karl’s Author Newsletter
Is it a bird? An arachnid? Who IS the geriatric spiderman?
Book News
Fanatical sought my permission to make the Lost Solace books one of their special promotional bundles, where fans can buy most of the books DRM-free at a bargain price. The bundle is now available here.
From Idea To Item is off to a good start. Libraries and bookshops have been ordering copies, and it’s been getting mentions, such as here:
You can buy the ebook direct from me, 50% off throughout September. Or buy it from any of the usual online stores (links here).
The paperback can be bought from here at a cheaper price than any bookshop; or just order it from your local bookshop (paperback ISBN 978-1-911278-41-2). I also have a few Advance Publication Proofs that I can post within the UK, which are half the price of the shop version, but contain the same text and images. Just contact me if you want one.
Any help in spreading the word about my new release is greatly appreciated!
And Another Fan Sends Photos!
This was sent by Arturo, who was reading my books for the first time. I can imagine Opal being happy in a green environment like that.
Keep sending in the pics!
Review Corner
Not a review as such, but part of an email I received from a fan yesterday.
“Finding Solace […] struck by how powerful a finale it is for the Lost Solace series. The way Opal, Athene, and Clarissa fight not just for freedom, but for the chance of a true home, feels so moving. That mix of space adventure, danger, and deep emotional connection makes it the kind of story that lingers with readers long after the last page. Your books stay with people. You craft characters who feel alive and journeys that keep readers hooked late into the night. We can connect with the courage and resilience woven through your stories.”
You can buy the books from me, or any online store; one of the companies I work with also sells print copies. I recommend reading all of them …
Personal News From The Realm Of Drinky
Here are some words I wrote yesterday:
“It is kindness to take care of each other. And beyond that, to take care of all life, and the planet. So take responsibility for your actions. They have a ripple effect on the rest of the world, like a stone thrown into a pond. Be the good ripple. Be the support. Sow love, not violence. See how we are all interconnected and equal, rather than hoarding resources like the evil do. Don’t be afraid to talk about your beliefs, and to challenge others. We are fighting for the survival of the planet.”
I came across this screenshot from some time ago, but it seems relevant to the text above:
Yes, that’s me scrambling up a bank like geriatric spiderman. There was a traffic cone and load of crisp packets that needed rescuing before they ended up in the river.
Today is a bright, cool morning. I am going to make some kindling from dried twigs and fallen branches gathered over the summer, and also have a dental check-up later on. Wish me luck!
May your twigs be dehydrated,
Karl
Went to the dentist. Sunny.
He asked if I had pain. I said none since the wisdom tooth came out. I explained about my battles to get that outcome with the practice manager: NHS trusts, health boards, MSPs. He said it has changed a lot now, different practice manager. Good.
He was very friendly. Told me my teeth were really good. Knew I drank some tea. I had the same pattern as his dad, tea in the morning, coffee in the afternoon, breakfast cereal at 9pm.
I told him the dental trip today was a painless and pleasant process.
I felt good so went to town and bought two pieces of cake. Then saw my favourite pub (the Dougie) had just opened so went in for a pint. Nice. I thanked them for having a big Palestine flag up. I said a few hours ago the UN declared Israel is committing genocide, as they have fulfilled four of the five criteria. She said we all knew that years ago.