Nothing to report, so question time!

As the title suggests, I have little to no news. I've been plugging away with the third Acrostic to Zejel poetry book when I've had the chance, but I don't have much time.

I've been busy helping my eldest settle into his new flat and getting my youngest ready to go back to school. I can't believe it is September already. What happened to the summer?????? AS I have no updates I will answer a few questions that people have asked me, or ones I have seen on social media!

What is the most unethical practice in the publishing industry?

I've seen a few, but there are two that really bug me. I keep seeing posts or ads about how to make money quickly through Amazon with little work. From what I understand these people create a 'shop' on the amazon site and sell other peoples books at an increased price. I see this as stealing, even though the original author will gain a sale from it.

The other practice I hate is just unethical. I have seen suggestions about selling low content or short books and selling at £4.99+. While they are technically writing, the content seems to be irrelevant to these people. They do not spend time building the story or characters so it's all about the money for little work. I have read many of these books as I have Kindle unlimited and read a lot. Sometimes the storylines are good but I just wish they authors were more ethical and dedicated to the art form instead of the money.

I will never use either of these practices as I believe you, my readers, deserve better!

What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

I actually don't do much research before I start writing. I start with a character or an idea and write something, anything. It usually doesn't make it into the final book but it's a start. Once I have a feel for the story I want to tell, I start my research. I have spent days searching through the internet for mythical creatures so I understand the lore behind them. I once spent hours searching for the most deadly plants to invent a potion. This has yet to make it into any of my books, but it was fun research.

Usually I do my research in between writing days. I spend a day or two writing and take notes on what I need to look up. Then I spend a day going over my notes and finding the information I need. This can sometimes stall or even change the direction of the book, but my characters control the narrative, I just write what they tell me to write!

Do you Google yourself?

Yes! From time to time I will do an incognito google search for myself to see where I show up. I need to make sure my website and books are visible. If I don't google me, how can I know if my settings are working for me?

Until next time...

Grab a book. Snuggle up and read. A good story can take you anywhere.

Just believe.