For The Love of Books

Hi,

Last month I told you how I was filling almost every waking moment by revising an old novel of mine. Well, somehow, a week or two after I told you that, I fell into a dark hole and, instead of continuing with the story, I put it to one side.

I think I did this for two reasons. Consciously, I did it so I could attend other aspects of running a business and subconsciously, I had to give myself time and space to think. While I was trying to get closer to the story and the characters, I was also immersing myself so deep, it was tough to see outside of it…and inside it too. I know that sounds like a ridiculous thing to say, but it is true.

Sometimes we need to take a step away from the WiP so we can see it clearer when we go back in. If our conscious mind isn’t telling us to do that, perhaps our subconscious mind will step in and say it. For me, I think my subconscious does a whole lot for me that I probably don’t give it credit for. I’ll talk more on this subject another time.

Aside from distancing myself from the WiP, I also managed to get The Versatile Writer podcast back up and running with Season 4 of weekly episodes and bonus episodes of the self-narrated sequel to Guardian Angel. The Journey Home is an emotional and psychological rollercoaster ride as Detective Tim Angel discovers the father who abandoned him at six years old and who he believed to be dead was very much alive and, more than that, went on to have another family too. Coping with the information sends Tim into a breakdown that brings along with it paranoia, hatred, rage, and fear and other stages of grief. Not only will he not let his friends help him, he attempts to sever all ties with them forever.

You can hear the 12 chapters plus an epilogue over 8 weeks on the podcast for free by downloading The Versatile Writer from iTunes, Spotify, etc. Don’t forget to subscribe to it so it appears in your feed automatically. You can always unsubscribe later if your tastes change. 😊

Lastly, this month, I want to remind you that as For The Love of Books is in its 10th year, we’re celebrating by sharing some birthday gifts. Anyone who purchases a course, monthly coaching, or even a book from me will receive* a gift by way of thanks. This applies to everyone no matter which part of the world you live in. I only ask that once you’ve received the item, you post a photo of yourself with it on social media and tag me in: Face Book: Sarah Banham or For The Love of Books, Twitter: @sjbwrites, Instagram: s.j.banham by way of sharing the excitement.

*As these are physical gifts, your postal address will be required.

Until next month, enjoy the darker evenings if you’re having them or the lighter ones if you’re not 😊

Sjb 😊

Welcome to this month’s website blog.

For me, August was mostly about rewriting an incomplete novel and researching various components to make the story come alive.

Although the rewrite isn’t quite finished yet, I do know the ending and how the characters will get there. I’m approximately three quarters of the way through, maybe a bit more. It’s tough to know that for sure because I keep adding bits to the existing chapters. I even purchased some writing software to help me organise it since adding and subtracting chapters all the way through had created its own issue quite separate from the story.

It’s a complex piece that, with rewriting, should alleviate the story’s complexity to the point that it will be a pleasure to read rather than a test of endurance, which it was originally. It makes me laugh though because stories are intended to be pleasurable, entertaining, or even educating. This story (I think) is really cool, but when it was first written, it was a big bunch of threads tangling up within themselves. I hope that this rewrite has reduced the number of threads, coloured them clearly, and laid them out flat so they provide an easier read.

But it’s taken a lot of time, effort, and research to make it come alive and feel realistic.

We writers often talk about our stories ‘coming alive’ and what we do to make that happen, so when I refer to research, for this story that took the shape of studying international maps, distances between locations, consulting retired professionals within my circle of friends, and understanding how specific character traits can manifest as plot devices too. The genre is clear, but the two sub-genres are less so. But all will become clear in time. (I hope!) 😊

So, as you can see, August really was all-consuming.

Before I go, I want to remind you that The Versatile Writer podcast is back on Monday 6th September with Season 4, Episode 79. The new format of 8 weeks per season looks like it will fit nicely with my routine and schedule. This season will reveal the sequel to Guardian Angel, the cop thriller I published back in 2006 (now out of print and before e-books were ever even a thing!). It’s called The Journey Home and focusses on a major emotional episode Detective Tim Angel goes through. I narrated the original story back in the UK’s first lockdown by way of giving something back to the community, especially when we were all going through so much. After the story ended, listeners wanted the sequel. So, you’ve now got your wish granted 😊 There will be 8 weeks-worth with 4 bonus episodes, so do look out on social media to learn when they’ll be out. Alternatively, subscribe to The Versatile Writer podcast available free via iTunes, Spotify, etc and it’ll land in your podcast feed like magic.

So that’s what’s been happening in my world of writing. What’s going on in yours? You can let me know via the comments area on my website, or through social media.

Until October, stay safe,

Sjb 😊

Welcome to this month’s business blog – a brilliant way to keep up to date with what’s happening in the world of For The Love of Books.

First of all, it’s with much pride that I announce For The Love of Books is (just over) 10 years old! While I was still working for a couple of months beforehand, 1st August 2011 was the first day I became self-employed and so the first day that the business really meant something big to me.

Ten years ago! Can you believe it? A decade of self-employment.

To celebrate, over the coming weeks I will be sharing the love by giving gifts to those who purchase from my business. This gift will arrive through the post, so don’t be surprised if I ask you for your home address. To give you an incentive, For The Love of Books has several courses, a coaching group, fiction and non-fiction books, and plenty of other payable services to peruse.

If you purchase something (ie a book) not directly through me (ie Amazon), please email to let me know and attach a screenshot of the confirmation of purchase. Whatever you buy, once you receive the gift, I’d love a photo of you with it! Why not post it on social media and tag me? Sarah Banham or For The Love of Books on Facebook, @sjbwrites on Twitter and s.j.banham on Instagram. 😊

Do you remember this from last month: ‘…I decided to fish out of the archives one of my older WiPs. It’s from around ten years ago and was, essentially, a 30k outline. While the story was sound, the wording was rushed, and it required a lot of rewriting…Everything takes time to make it right.’. Well, I’ve not been idle. I’ve been working on it since I last reported. Those of you who follow me on social media may well have gathered that I haven’t stopped rewriting and now, just a few weeks on, it’s taking shape beautifully.

In my monthly newsletter, I give more detailed hints on the writing processes I take for each novel. For this one, I’ve adopted yet a different approach – one that I usually suggest new writers use because writing a novel can be both intimidating and overwhelming.

I’ve written out a chapter-by-chapter outline, moving away from it when needed only just slightly, and this time it’s worked. It’s an odd thing really because each novel I write usually has its own individual process. Sometimes I write them in linearly, others starting at the end and working my way backwards, others simply writing the action-packed scenes/chapters first and working my way out a little like an outward spiral. In fact, of the four novels I’ve published, each were written differently. Who’s to say my future ones won’t have their own ways too?

I plan to continue this one until its end because I’ve reached a stage in my writing career that reminds me (rather morbidly) I may have longer behind me than in front. Because of this, I think running to the end of the marathon with this one is the way forwards. 😊

If you’d like to subscribe to my free newsletter (mentioned above) to be kept in the loop – it also highlights exclusive offers and new services when they’re out, as well as writing challenges and opportunities, just email sarah@loveofbooks.co.uk to receive the current one. You can opt out at any time and, in line with UK GDPR rules, I won’t keep your details.

I’ll chat again in September so, until then, enjoy the summer,

Sjb 😊

Hi there,

June was a decision-making month for me. I decided a lot of things. Here are just two of them: to work out a publishing format for my podcast and to work on another ‘Work in Progress’.

Being a freelancer, as you might imagine work can be sporadic. But, like most freelancers, I use the time wisely whichever way it's going. In the times where there is ample paid work, I put aside my own writing to focus wholeheartedly on the client. But when it’s a little light on the ground, I turn my attention to my own projects and see what I can do better. That’s what happened in June.

Firstly, I decided to fish out of the archives one of my older WiPs. It’s from around ten years ago and was, essentially, a 30k outline. While the story was sound, the wording was rushed, and it required a lot of rewriting. So, two weeks ago, I read it through and made the decision to give it another go. Since then, I’ve been working on it almost every day. It’s now just over the 50k mark and I’m still just in the first quarter of it. There's a lot of research to be carried out and research takes time, in whatever form it takes.

I made the mistake of thinking, in early June that, as Christmas happens within the story, it'll need just a quick rewrite and it’ll be ready for beta-readers, an editor, and a cover designer, all ready for a seasonal release. But it never really works that quickly. I’d say I need to give this story a good few months to rewrite, then brew, before I go back and edit it again. Only after that would I get a team of beta-readers on it.

Everything takes time to make it right.

My podcast, The Versatile Writer, was gnawing at my insides as well recently because I felt I was working for it rather than the other way around. I was hurriedly writing down ideas and fleshing them out, recording and editing them just to get them out on time. It felt a little like a production line, just to beat the deadline. It was then that another podcaster suggested having ‘seasons’ of 8 episodes, take off 8 weeks and do the whole thing over again. I really gave this a lot of thought and decided that was the way forwards. That way, I can release episodes that are filled with tips, advice, and support for other writers whether they are new to the craft or have been writing for years.

This week’s episode was an interview with author and astronomer Mark Thompson whose book, 101 Facts You Didn’t Know About Space, published by Pen and Sword Books, I reviewed recently. In the podcast, Mark gives tips about astronomy, his writing processes, and even some advice on writing non-fiction. You can download The Versatile Writer free from iTunes, Spotify, anywhere you listen to podcasts.

This episodes was my last for this season. The next season begins in September and will be the long-awaited sequel to Guardian Angel that I narrated every week back in the first UK lockdown. I hope the season format works for your listening pleasure as much as it works for me, because, let’s face it, you are the reason I record it.

Lastly, I want to remind you that while there is a summer break for the podcast, there is no break for the business. For The Love of Books is still running courses, there are places available on the monthly coaching group, I’m available for freelance work (copy writing, ghost writing, business blogging, proofreading and editing), and if you have an idea for the podcast that hasn’t already been aired, I’d love to hear from you about that too.

You can also keep in the loop via my monthly newsletter. Just email me sarah@loveofbooks.co.uk with NEWSLETTER in the header and I’ll add you to the list. You can opt out at any time – just let me know and there’ll be no hard feelings 😊. In line with UK GDPR rules, I won’t keep your email details either 😊

If you'd like to comment on this or any other monthly blog, you can do so in the comment area below.

In the meantime, I’ll continue with this WiP and I wish you a happy summer month of writing and reading and listening 😊

Bye for now.

Sjb 😊

Polishing my WiPs!

June, 2021

June marks the end of the first half of the year, and that means it’s a good time to clear out the old and bring in the new. Or, in my case, clear out the old stories and rewrite them into new ones.

I took a moment recently to go through my laptop and clear out what wasn’t needed: a mid-year spring clean you might say. I found lots to delete and a lot of Works in Progress that are now ready for fresh eyes.

In the early 2000s, I wrote several novel-sized stories that were left to ‘brew’. I always feel that some stories need to be emptied from your head and left for a length of time, so when you revisit you’re better equipped to polish them back into life. Back in the 2000s, I wasn’t. I had stories to tell but they weren’t ready for public consumption.

So, this is what the summer I'll be polishing my WiPs!

Of course, I don’t expect to polish them all over the summer. There are at least half a dozen, so readying them for a new audience will take time. On the plus side though, once I begin one, the others will be lining up for my attention. I’ll edit each one to within an inch of its life, and their skeletal remains will be fleshed back out before being and given a spit and polish. (Aren’t metaphors fantastic!).

Talking of stories, don’t forget the bookshop has a new arrival. Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas is making its mark out there, so if a romantic tale with a few societal issues thrown in is your idea of a good read, then take a look at this link to find out more https://www.amazon.co.uk/Livin-Lovin-Texas-SJ-Banhamebook/dp/B0921RMFRS/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=SJ+Banham&qid=1619793921&s=books&sr=1-1 And, if you decide to buy a copy, please leave me a (hopefully nice) review so other readers buy one as well. Thank you in advance.

Also, did you notice the 4 blogs interviewing the characters on here? They began with Garrett, then Megan, Billy, then Sal, covering their respective back stories, behind the scenes goings-on, and a peek into their futures. I hope you liked the blogs. Who knows, there may be more like this in the future.

Until next month, I wish you a summer of happy reading and happy writing. 😊

Sjb 😊

My recently released novel, Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas is a bittersweet romantic tale of forgiveness. I wanted to talk more to each of the four main characters Garrett Cobb, Megan Meyer, Billy Cobb and Sal, so this week, in the last of four weekly interviews, I caught up with Sal and asked her about her past.

Interviewer: Hey Sal, how are you?

Sal: Hey yourself. I’m good, thanks.

I: Sal, first of all, I’d really like to know your whole name.

Sal: I’m Sally Willard. Never liked Sally too much, made me sound like I was sweet and proper with pigtails and I’m nothin’ like that as you can plainly see.

I: Oh, I think you’re a great woman. I think you’re a woman with a strong mind and who has a strong character. The world could use more women like you, Sal.

Sal: Well, that’s one of the nicer things I’ve ever heard someone say about me. Thanks, honey.

I: Tell me about your life. What kind of a teenager were you?

Sal: Wow, you jump right in there, dontcha? (laughs) I was rowdy back then. I remember my mama saying that from the moment I learned to walk, I was off in all directions. I ain’t never been no different. I was a teenager in the 80s so I got to see a lot of rock bands and was datin’ a lot. You couldn’t hold me back. I wanted it all and I set about havin’ it all too.

I: What were your parents like?

Sal: My daddy didn't stay around so I don't remember him aside from photographs. My mama was tough, she had to be. People called her a 'tough broad' back then. (Laughs). She was all about teaching me to stand on my own two feet early in life. They were good life lessons. Then I reached my teens and I was off in all directions.

I: And then you met the father of your son. Tell me about that.

Sal: Nothin’ to tell really. It was a long time ago. We both had a lot of growing up to do. It was a very short, very intense thing and my boy was the result. We met at a rock gig and spent the next three months together. We were inseparable until he found out about the baby, and then he flew away real quick. Looking back it was the best thing for both of us. Forced me to grow up and Kevin is a good man because of it. Not everyone’s made to be part of a conventional family.

I: And afterwards you went into counselling? What drew you in?

Sal: I like listening to people, figuring out what makes them tick. Most everyone has the ability to listen but a lot of folk just hear a question, then prepare themselves for an answer or a defence. Listening takes time and effort. I like that. I saw an ad and went for it. I had a little kid to feed too so it made sense to get a job I actually liked.

I: You seem to be that person people tell their life stories to, even if they’re not the talking kind.

Sal: Skills, honey. (laughs)

I: So, what’s your plans for the future. Are you staying in Maynard?

Sal: No plan to move anywhere else just yet. The folks here have been good to me, welcomed me in with open arms, I’d say. They’re warm and friendly, and it’s the kind of place you can make a home at. Yeah, maybe I’ll settle here a little while.

I: It’s been lovely chatting with you. I hope we talk again soon.

Sal: You know where to find me when you do.

If you’d like to by a copy of Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas, follow the link through the BOOKSHOP tab and please leave a review on Amazon after you’ve read it. Thanks in advance.

My recently released novel, Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas is a bittersweet romantic tale of forgiveness.

I wanted to talk more to each of the four main characters Garrett Cobb, Megan Meyer, Billy Cobb and Sal so this week, in the third of four weekly interviews, I caught up with Billy and asked him about his childhood years.

Interviewer: Hi Billy, how are you?

Billy Cobb: I’m good.

I: I thought we might talk a bit about when you were a child.

BC: Sure, what do you wanna know?

I: What was your earliest memory?

BC: My earliest memory is when Garrett was helpin’ dad on the ranch when we still had it working. I remember Mom holding me on the fence posts so we could see them from the house. Garrett was the perfect big brother. We had a small room at the back of the house where all my toys were and we played in there after school. Looking back, they were good memories.

I: That sounds idyllic.

BC: It was for a few years. Then dad stopped working so mom got a job.

I: How come he stopped working?

BC: (Holds his hand up by his mouth to denote a glass). Then after that it all went bad.

I: It seems you had a lot to deal with back then, especially as you were so young.

BC: I didn’t understand what was happening. Mom was there one minute and gone the next. I remember her baking cookies and playing with me and then not there at all. That was when Garrett stepped up.

I: Not your father?

BC: My daddy ain’t the kinda guy who’d cook and clean. He ain’t the ‘raisin’ kids’ kind. He thought it was woman’s work. He was better at ranchin’ and when there weren’t no ranchin’ to do, he propped up the bar instead. (sighs) He was real good at that.

I: I expect he was distraught at losing his wife.

BC: I guess. He never spoke much, least not to me, so I dunno what he was feeling. He kinda became a stranger in his own house and in his own life.

I: That’s poetic, Billy. I heard that Garrett raised you.

BC: Yup. I heard that if he hadn’t, I’d have gone into care. I guess it makes him a good person.

I: What’s your relationship like with Garrett now?

BC: We grew apart over the years. We’re very different people. I guess things might change in the future. I sure hope so. We’re still brothers after all.

If you’d like to by a copy of Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas, hit the BOOKSHOP tab and the link is in there. Oh, and please leave a (nice) review on Amazon when you’ve read it. Thanks in advance.

My recently released novel, Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas is a bittersweet romantic tale of forgiveness.

I wanted to talk more to each of the four main characters in the story Garrett Cobb, Megan Meyer, Billy Cobb and Sal, so this week, in the second of four weekly interviews, I caught up with Megan and asked her about her pregnancy, those much-loved bagels and, of course, baby LJ.
***
Interviewer: Hi Megan. Thanks for spending some time with me.

MM: You’re welcome. Thanks for having me.

I: I see you’ve got LJ on your lap. How is she doing?

MM: Ah, she’s doing great. She’s gettin’ so big.

I: Does she sleep well?

MM: uh-huh. She goes in and out of routines but I can keep up with her. I put her down around seven and she’s askin’ for her breakfast at six. That’s pretty good. It also means I get to sleep good too. But when she does want it, she lets me know real loud! (laughs) I heard a lot of horror stories from women who didn’t have good sleepers, but I’m blessed with this little girl.

I: I’ve got to ask, especially for all those pregnant readers out there, how was your pregnancy?

MM: It was pretty bleak (laughs). I mean as pregnancies go, I guess it was the regular kind, but my circumstances at the time fed into it and that was the part that was tough.

I: Tell me about that. What was bleak?

MM: Billy wasn’t interested in caring for me, my mom threw me out and Garrett was away. There was nobody to talk to. I turned to Carla in the end. She was real good to me. I got by. I’m that kinda person, I guess. I always get by.

I: What happened with your mother?

MM: She’s kinda traditional. She wanted me to be with LJ’s daddy but Billy wasn’t interested. It was a tough time. Emotional. I felt pretty lost at times. I had nobody to talk to. I cried a lot. I guess it was the hormones. She just felt that I wasn’t her responsibility so she … shall we say ‘encouraged’ me… to find somewhere else to live. My mom can be pretty persuasive if she wants to be.

I: You got a gorgeous bundle of joy out of it though.

MM: I did. (kisses baby). She really is the best thing, ain’t she?

I: Are you on good terms with her now?

MM: We see her sometimes. Of course, she’s in love with LJ. I mean, why wouldn’t she be? I have perfection in my arms right here, don’t I?

I: Let’s talk about something else that you’re great at creating. I’ve heard a lot of great things about the bagels you cooked at the diner.

MM: Y’know, it’s funny. I hear a lot of people talk about them. I dunno what it is, I guess I just cook a good bagel. I have a few fans.

I: I can think of at least one of them.

MM: (Giggles) I don’t do anything special to ‘em neither. I just follow the recipe and out they come.

I: Garrett said they’re hard and soft all at the same time.

MM: He’s such a sweetie, isn’t he?

I: When LJ Is older, will you teach her how you make them?

MM: Oh for sure! We’re gonna get up to all kinds when she’s bigger. I have so many plans in place already.

I: Lastly, one more question for you Megan. Are you planning on having more children?

MM: Wow, what a big question. I guess I’d like a couple more, yeah. I think, for right now though, let’s focus on what I have right here.

I: Thanks for your time today, Megan.

MM: You are so welcome.


Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas is available now via Amazon – click on the link in the BOOKSHOP tab.

My recently released novel, Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas is a bittersweet romantic tale of forgiveness.

I wanted to talk more to each of the four main characters Garrett Cobb, Megan Meyer, Billy Cobb and Sal, so this week, in the first of four weekly interviews, I caught up with Garrett and asked him about his trip to Europe.

***
Interviewer: Hey Garrett. Thanks for your time today.

Garrett Cobb: It’s good to be here.

I: It’s great to catch up with you. I’d love to know more about your trip to Europe.

GC: Sure, what d’you wanna know?

I: Well, you know I’m from the UK, and I’d like to know what it was about England that you just had to visit? I mean, you can Google these places, but you didn’t. You saved your money, got on a plane and went there.

GC: (laughs). I did, yeah.

I: What was the weather like?

GC: Pretty bad. It rained every damn day.

I: And yet, you willingly travelled thousands of miles from a very sunny Texas just to get there. What drove you to do that?

GC: London’s always seemed like this amazin’ place to visit. The accent’s real cool, so upright and proper. It makes you stand up straight to speak it. (smiles)

I: Did you try it out?

GC: Sure, in my hotel room. I’d never try it in front of someone else though.

I: And I thought you were a tough guy.

GC: Even I have my limits! It was great though. I had a really good time there. It was surreal, actually. My mom used to say I had one life and I had to live it. I reckon visitin’ Great Britain was livin’ it.

I: You’re mother was a clever lady.

GC: She was the best. She woulda loved Great Britain, seeing Buckingham Palace and maybe even seeing the Queen. She’d have got a kick outta that one. Being over there scratched my itch, answered a few questions. I think I’m a better guy for having travelled than if I’d stayed home. Sometimes, you just gotta do something about how you’re feelin’ or else you’d never do anythin’.

I: Did you bring back any souvenirs?

GC: I saved some of the money. I thought Megan might get a kick out of seeing it.

I: Do you think you’ll ever go back?

GC: Sure, why not?

I: I’d love to sit with you and look through your holiday photos, but I suspect you’ve got a lot on at the moment, don’t you?

GC: (smiles, sheepishly)

I: Thanks for your time, Garrett. I hope we can catch up again soon.

GC: Anytime. It’d be cool with me. You just say the word.

If you want to find out more about Garrett's story, hop over to the BOOKSHOP tab and you'll find the link there.

Wow! What a month it’s been. So much excitement and so much going on.

There’s been some changes to the site content, some new additions too. Click on the SERVICES tab and you’ll see that Proofreading, Editing, and Copy writing are all back and with prices too. Do take a look at the page if you need to outsource your sales copy, blogging, or you need a ghost writer. I’m happy to have a Zoom ‘discovery chat’ with you to unpick what it is you need.

The bookshop has got a new arrival too. If you’ve not checked in with my posts on social media this week, and the run down to the official publication day of Livin’ and Lovin’ in Texas, then take a look at this link to find out more about this bittersweet romantic tale of forgiveness.

Click on the picture to buy. And, if you decide to buy a copy, please leave me a (hopefully nice) review so other readers buy one as well. Thank you in advance.

Finally, some of you may have noticed that I took a few weeks away from publishing new episodes of The Versatile Writer podcast. I did this to gather more content, so new episodes will be available in the next couple of weeks. Older episodes are still available – and there’s over sixty to choose from – so, there’s plenty to listen to in the meantime. Please subscribe to the podcast, share it on social media (not forgetting to tag me in when you do), and please consider giving it a review too.

Reviews mean that books and podcasts gain more visibility as each new person who reads it might well find it just what they’ve been searching for. It’s worth mentioning that the podcast has a Facebook group now (Click here to open the Facebook group) that was created to be a safe space to continue the discussions raised on the podcast. I hope I see you in there.

Until next month, I wish you a happy month of writing and reading - hopefully my book 😊

Sjb 😊

April, 2021

Hey there!

This Spring, I’ve been focussing on learning.

I’ve had a steep learning curve over the past few weeks. It’s not easy, that’s for sure. Most of the learning has come in the form of technology – oh yes, that old chestnut! And other things have been in the form of expanding some of the freebies I offer through For the Love of Books like The Versatile Writer podcast, the monthly newsletter, and this monthly blog post. As you might imagine, all these take time to imagine, research, and write, then proofread and edit before they get published or sent out.

Learning, no matter what age we are, is so important for at least two reasons: firstly, to keep our minds active and fending off the nasties, and secondly, to improve our knowledge and improve ourselves.

For me, I enjoy learning a whole lot more if I have someone to talk things over with. Support means learning is less taxing and that means it’s easier to absorb. Support is vital to a good learning experience.

This is why I offer support with the self-improvement services on my site. But support can mean different things to different people. It might be that you prefer hand-holding all the way through or it might be a dip-in-and-out kind of support.

The various workshops* I offer can be either and are incredibly versatile. I’ve designed them to be as flexible as possible to suit your needs. They can be generalised or tailor-made, you can choose those related to writing fiction or non-fiction, and they can be delivered** online or in person (when COVID allows). They can even be purchased for an individual or an entire writing group and all across the world too in different time-zones (only online).

And the self-improvement and professional development doesn’t stop there either. I lead a monthly coaching* group that, for a modest monthly fee, enjoys personal coaching, friendly yet constructive feedback, motivation, and a monthly group zoom call that covers aspects of creative writing that *you* want.

So, this Spring is all about taking a deep breath of fresh air, focussing on yourself and your writing, and enjoying some support along the way.

Why not join in? 😊

See you next month,

Sjb 😊

*Ts&Cs apply
**Fees for in-person training differ to those delivered online.

Hello,

And just like that March arrives!

Do you notice how quickly time seems to pass? Of course, it doesn’t pass quickly, it’s just our perception of it. We fill our days, we keep our minds occupied, we bring in a wage (hopefully), and because most of the things we do are cyclical, it feels like time moves quickly.

March also marks a year since the UK has been in and out of Lockdown. Within that year, what have you done with regards to your creativity? I’m not asking this by way of highlighting what you haven’t done – I’m not berating you – I’m simply curious to know if you used the time to write that book you’ve always wanted to?

If you still want to write it but haven’t yet begun, I'd like to highlight two ways I can help you begin. Firstly, you can hire me to write it for you but with your name on the cover: aka ghost writing. There are details of what this entails on the Services tab above. Secondly, you could join my coaching group where I’d coach you every month to get another page written, or even another chapter. This group is just £20 per month. For details, check out the Community Group's tab above.

In fact, there are plenty of ways I can assist you in your writing especially if you are new to it (and if you are not). What do you think?

I’d love to hear from you. Just email me sarah@loveofbooks.co.uk and we’ll discuss it.

Until next time, see you in April,

Sjb

Hi, the first of the month always looks a bit daunting to me, especially when you stand at the front of it. February has fewer days than the rest of the months, so that helps us along a little.

During December's holidays, I managed to get diplomas in Proofreading & Editing, Copywriting, and Psychology. The first two provided reassurance that I'm still able to offer clients a good service, and the psychology diploma (which was truly tough btw!) provided a better understanding of how fictional characters behave which, in turn, will help me help my coaching clients.

That aside, I’ve got heaps of things happening now or in the pipeline. Firstly, The Versatile Writer has released its 3rd of 4 episodes on aspects of creative writing that might interest you into taking the reins yourself. Secondly, I’m planning on publishing another novel soon. Lastly, there are spaces available in my coaching group so if you’re new to creative writing and want some handholding and guidance, this group could well be for you. Do get in touch for more details. Sarah@loveofbooks.co.uk

Do let me know if you want to subscribe to my monthly newsletter as well. It’s filled with opportunities, challenges and plenty of information. Email me and I’ll pop you on the mailing list.

Until March, enjoy writing,
Sjb

Hello,

While December is traditionally the time for us to begin thinking about fresh starts for the New Year, it’s also time to reflect on what we’ve achieved in 2020. Clearly, it hasn’t been the year we all hoped for but, but if we look for the positives, it did give some business people the opportunity to reconsider how their businesses are run, and I was one of them.

Reflecting on the past year initiates sentimentality, yet it also helps us learn, especially in business. This ensures the services we put in place are working well. For instance, I offer copywriting, blogging and ghost writing services for businesses which will assist in getting your sales messages to the right audience. For the individual, while creative writing workshops were already an existing service, the online versions and tailor-made workshops were a new addition, and are being added to all the time.

If there’s something specific about writing a novel, biography, blog or other creative writing that you just cannot get your head around, why not email me and I’ll make a workshop tailored to your needs. As they’re delivered online, anyone in any time zone can participate. So, why not draw a line under 2020, and begin 2021 with the motivation, excitement and vigour to finally get that book written. No more putting it off or putting your needs on the back burner.

You may have noticed an addition to the workshops I provide. 'Keeping Track of Your Story' will be available from January 2021. More on this in next month's blog.

Lastly, I provide a heap of free writing resources from blogs, to book reviews, from a weekly podcast and a monthly newsletter, so do make sure you take advantage of them all. The book reviews are posted to social media every Friday morning via my business page https://www.facebook.com/For-The-Love-of-Books-514323845296723/?view_public_for=514323845296723 and Twitter, @sjbwrites. The Versatile Writer podcast is published every Monday (link via tab above) and you can sign up to the newsletter by emailing me via sarah@loveofbooks.co.uk

As the year comes to a close, the New Year brings with it hope for successful business opportunities and fresh ideas for new stories. 2021 will also see some more books published from me too. It’s been a while!

Thank you for being part of the For The Love of Books community over the past year. It’s been great having you along.

Sarah
Founder and Owner of For The Love of Books

Hi,

Wow! How quickly the month has gone and November arrived.

November is National Novel Writing Month, the challenge whereby writers of all levels tap out 50,000 words from the 1st to the 30th. The result is intended to be the backbone for future novels, and the daily input helps those who don’t write every day to do so. While I won’t be participating this year, I know many other writers will be, so a heartfelt ‘good luck’ to them all. Instead, my challenge for November will be editing, sourcing books covers and preparing to self-publish again.

If NaNoWriMo isn’t your thing, or indeed you want to focus more on learning about creative writing from the ground up, why not consider one of my online workshops. They can be tailor-made to your specific writing needs or, if you’re part of a writing group, I can accommodate several of you at once, whatever your time zone. Just check out the workshop tag to see which ones you’re drawn to. During bouts of ‘Lockdown’, it could be just what you need to keep your spirits afloat, whatever country you're in.

Lastly, the newest addition to my services is the monthly coaching group. Do check out the Ts & Cs and if it sounds like a good fit for your needs, I’d love to hear from you.

I hope you have a really productive writing month whatever it is you’re creating.

Sarah
For The Love of Books

Hey there!

Well, September was busy.

The Coaching Group began beautifully which turned up several pieces of fiction and a blog for which to provide feedback. I also reviewed several non-fiction books which will show up on the business's face book page during October and November, and I've been editing my own fiction and non-fiction too. Add to that, I've written more content for my podcast and I made some big decisions regarding the use of my time.

You may have seen that I've stopped presenting radio after 9 years, so at least for the present time, there will be no more Writer's Block. While it was a difficult decision, it was also a decision I'd been considering for a while. Instead, I've focussed more on The Versatile Writer podcast which is now in its second year and covers many of the topics I spoke about on the radio show.

The fiction I've been editing was a novella I originally wrote back in 2005. After several years of it being a work in progress, and editing it over and over, last year I ripped through it completely then gave myself time away from it. Detaching myself completely from a story helps me revisit with fresher eyes. So, now in its 8th edit, I feel it is complete and has now been sent to one of my beta readers. The non-fiction was a rewrite of a book I self published in 2013. It, too, is now with a beta reader.

So, I think you'll agree I've been using my time wisely.

I'll post monthly blogs to keep you in the loop, so if that floats your boat, why not like and share this with your other creative-writing minded friends?

See you next month,

sjb x

Hello,

Can you believe we are in September already?

This month is when schools re-open in the UK so many students will be going for the first time and some for the last since Covid19 began. We send our good wishes to them and remind ourselves that we never stop learning.

With that in mind, this month saw the start of the Monthly Coaching Group. This is where new writers submit up to 1000 words each month and guidance is given by way of friendly feedback, hints, tips and suggestions to shape the work for their audience. Non fiction and fiction are allowed. Several new writers have subscribed but if this is something that sounds like something you'd benefit from, there is always room for more. Check out the terms and conditions on the 'workshops' tab (scroll to the bottom) and get in touch.

Finally, today saw the online meetup for Writers of Essex, the writer's group supported by Society of Authors. Half a dozen writers attended including three new to the group. We hope to see them again in the future. Our theme this time was 'What has inspired you lately?'

Our next meetup will be in December. Details will be on the Writers of Essex Face Book page or, if you are a member of the SoA, via email.

Until next month, keep writing.

Sjb
For The Love of Books

After my blog yesterday explaining how excited I was to bring a new service to the business, I couldn't wait any longer before getting the wording right on the advert and also in the Terms and Conditions. Now they're done - it's posted!

Follow this link to read the finer details .... https://loveofbooks.photium.com/workshops-2020 and please scroll to the bottom of the page as this service links to workshops so it's only fair they share the same page. :)

Please register soon if you want to develop and improve your writing, and meet other new writers in a friendly and safe online space FOR JUST A TENNER A MONTH!

I can't wait to meet you all. :)
sjb

I just love to share good news but to share good business news is even more exciting.

The feedback from my online tailor-made workshops has been brilliant and from it I've been asked to start a Monthly Coaching Group. It's for new writers anywhere across the globe and will include monthly feedback with friendly yet constructive suggestions, hints and tips on developing your creative writing.

All this for just a tenner a month!

The promo will go out soon but in the meantime, if this sounds like something that'll help motivate you and your writing, please register your interest by emailing me sarah@loveofbooks.co.uk with MONTHLY COACHING GROUP in the header.

Looking forward to hearing from you.
sjb

Additions and alterations to our services!
Read More