For The Love of Books
May's Blog
01st May 2021 - 0 comments
01st May 2021 - 0 comments
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 😊
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's Blog
01st April 2021 - 0 comments
01st April 2021 - 0 comments
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.
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.
March News
01st March 2021 - 0 comments
01st March 2021 - 0 comments
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
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
February Blog
03rd February 2021 - 0 comments
03rd February 2021 - 0 comments
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
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
December Blog
01st December 2020 - 0 comments
01st December 2020 - 0 comments
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
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
November News
01st November 2020 - 0 comments
01st November 2020 - 0 comments
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
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
October News
01st October 2020 - 0 comments
01st October 2020 - 0 comments
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
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
September News
05th September 2020 - 0 comments
05th September 2020 - 0 comments
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
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
New Service! Monthly Coaching Group!
10th July 2020 - 0 comments
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
10th July 2020 - 0 comments
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
Exciting News!
09th July 2020 - 0 comments
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
09th July 2020 - 0 comments
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
WRITING TIPS!
14th May 2012 - 0 comments
14th May 2012 - 0 comments
When proofreading, read your work backwards!
Your brain expects the next word so won't tell you if it is wrong. Reading backwards will confuse your brain and tell it to take in each word separately thus giving you more chance to spot the incorrectly spelled words.
Simples! :O)
Your brain expects the next word so won't tell you if it is wrong. Reading backwards will confuse your brain and tell it to take in each word separately thus giving you more chance to spot the incorrectly spelled words.
Simples! :O)