COVID 19. I've been avoiding talking about the virus that has a large number of people stocking loo rolls, pasta, and flour, but it needs to be done. I didn't want it to affect my writing. Indeed, I saw it as an escape, but it hasn't worked that way to date.

Progress with writing has stalled. The unfolding pandemic and the related stories, rumours, and inevitable chat, has left me drained, mentally and emotionally. I've switched off from most social media and mainstream news delivery, and that is helping my brain get back to normal. I hope to do more writing from now on.

On more positive news, I have finished editing my next book. It has been to my beta readers, and is now in the tender (read: blunt, honest, and helpful) hands of my professional editor. I did initially consider delaying the release until after the COVID 19 panic had subsided, but have now decided to push ahead. It will be released in EBook format at the very least. I am considering the best way to provide print copies to those who want them, but it's tricky. I want to ensure there can be no trace of virus on the books. I know I don't have the virus at the moment, but I'm not the one making the print editions. I'll let you know the options for getting print copies closer to the release date.

And what is the expected release date? I don't know at the moment. I can tell you the title - Defender. It is not a part of either series I have written so far. At the moment it is a stand-alone book, but there is the potential to make it the first of a series. Decision pending...

In the meantime, stay safe and look after yourself.

​A public library in Queens, New York, has bought a book from this little Tassie author for their collection. So cool! I may be a little excited....