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Seeing Stars


The country lanes have been especially beautiful this year. Despite cool temperatures and frequent heavy showers, we’ve been able to get out and about running, cycling and walking with friends.


A combination of Romantic Novelist Association business and pleasure took us to Hereford last weekend. Our travels were somewhat curtailed by the car exhaust falling apart but thanks to the lovely folks at Kwik Fit who patched us up for no cost, we were able to visit Hereford Cathedral and see the wonderful Mappa Mundi. It’s one of those treasures I’d known about but hadn’t quite put myself out to see – and I’m so glad we did! It’s truly amazing and so touching.

'Beyond Limitations'. John O'Connor's sculpture in the Lady Arbour Cloister Garden

A rather less well-known document also went on view to the public this week. My third novel, Follow A Star has just been released on Kindle before its paperback publication in July. It’s the second in my Little Spitmarsh series, linked but not a sequel as such, to my debut novel, Turning the Tide (which is featured in June’s Kindle Monthly Deals for 99p). I really enjoyed writing this – I know I’ve given it my all, so it’s a case of waiting to see what everyone else thinks. If you’re moved to do so, please leave a review… unless, of course, you don’t like it in which case my family will thank you if you spare me your full and frank opinion – they’re the ones who have to persuade me to come out from under my desk. And with Follow A Star very much on my mind, I’ve started seeing it in all kinds of unlikely places… 



Comments

Jane Lovering said…
I so love Little Spitmarsh (am I allowed to say 'spit' given my dribble propensity?), you write such 'strong' places that I almost feel I could live there!
Preet said…
The Mappa Mundi sounds fascinating. Follow a Star may not be as famous, but I do believe it'll hold its own. Buck up Chris! All will be well and everyone will love Bill, May, and Little Spitmarsh like you and I do. :)
Chris Stovell said…
Thanks, Jane. It's always a wrench to leave Little Spitmarsh which I feel inclined to keep returning.

Aw! Thanks, Chanpreet - and the Mappa Mundi is absolutely wonderful, the illustrations are just lovely. Well worth a visit if you're ever over here.
Pondside said…
Congratulations, Chris! What an accomplishment!
Flowerpot said…
Am looking forward to revisiting Little Spitmarsh inJuly as I don't have a Kindle! xx
Flowerpot said…
Am looking forward to revisiting Little Spitmarsh inJuly as I don't have a Kindle! xx
Flowerpot said…
Am looking forward to revisiting Little Spitmarsh inJuly as I don't have a Kindle! xx
Hywela Lyn said…
Congratulations on @Follow A Star', wishing you many sales. I agree about the country lanes too, everything's been particularly green and lush this spring thanks, no doubt, to the combination of sun and rain!
Hywela Lyn said…
Congratulations on @Follow A Star', wishing you many sales. I agree about the country lanes too, everything's been particularly green and lush this spring thanks, no doubt, to the combination of sun and rain!
Chris Stovell said…
Many thanks, Sue and thank you Hywela Lyn for dropping by.

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