Hello!

Happy August!

Book News, Good & Bad . . .

One of the lovely things about putting a book out into the world is encountering unexpected readers. I’ve had comments and reviews from people of all ages, and was particularly delighted this month to hear from a retired soil scientist who had read Dirt! I did a lot of research while writing the book, as I didn’t want to get any farming facts wrong, and according to my scientific reader the agricultural studying paid off:

“Scientists aren't supposed to talk about magic but, for me, that process of transforming vegetation into new soil and humus is nothing short of magical… I can't tell you how heartwarming to encounter an author who fully understands the importance of soil.”

I was so pleased!

In less good news, I’m sorry to report that the publisher of my second book, Enough, (Neem Tree Press, an imprint of Boundless), has been in financial difficulties and this month announced it’s shutting down. However, I’ve been in talks with another publisher and can confirm that Enough will still be coming out in 2026.

Important: if you pre-ordered Enough, please email to let me know. I will personally ensure that you get the book you paid for!

Reading Recommendation

Have you read anything by Tamora Pierce? Her book, Alanna, is one of my all-time favourites…

Alanna of Trebond doesn’t want to be sent away to learn to be a lady any more than her brother Thom wants to be a knight – so the twins switch places. Thom goes to the convent to study his passion, sorcery, while his sister cuts her hair and goes to the palace as Alan the page. But the road to knighthood is not an easy one. As Alanna masters the skills necessary for battle, she must also learn to control her heart and to discern her enemies from her allies.

It's a cracking story with a tough and inspirational heroine at the heart of it – and it’s the start of a series, so there are three more to enjoy!

Lazy Green Wins #14

One easy green win to consider for the holidays is simply to travel light! Every kilo we carry increases emissions, especially in a car. Lighter bags = less carbon and less effort.

Of course, travelling without books is unthinkable, so I balance the weight by packing soap and shampoo bars instead of heavy shower gel and shampoo bottles – which also reduces plastic packaging. Win win!

Do you have any holiday packing tips? Or any books I should definitely be taking with me? Hit reply, I’d love to hear from you.

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Until next time, Happy reading! Laura