Those who pay attention to these things will have noticed that this newsletter is a couple of days later than normal. I wasn't comfortable sending it on Friday, the day after the passing of our wonderful queen. I was born in her coronation year and have always felt a little proud of that, especially growing up in South Australia among many English people including my own dad and his family. 

A gracious woman, and a life well-lived and loved. She will be badly missed.

Here we are now though, and welcome, especially to new subscribers - love having you on board for this special edition of By the Letter.

The picture above is of meadowsweet, a wild flower which carries much significance in River Witch. Traditionally, brides carried a posy of meadowsweet, wore it as a garland, or it was strewn on their path to the altar. 

To see what the reviewers are talking about, I've chosen an extract to share with you.

When Hester meets Catherine at St Ceyna’s well, they form a bond which will be tested by time and trouble.

Have a read, and enjoy.

If you would like to purchase a signed copy directly from me, please email for details. UK only, with many apologies, given postage costs.

WRITER'S CORNER - Plotter or Panster?

Different writers approach their new work-in-progress in (many) different ways. Approaches tend, however, to fall along a spectrum. At one end are the detailed plotters, and at the other are those who open their computers and set to work with only the vaguest idea of where they’re going.

I recently polled Twitter's #writingcommunity to get a sense of how this worked in reality. My findings were interesting and possibly helpful! 

COMING UP

Next month I'll give an update on River Witch, and also talk about my current writing project - the one many people have asked for. 

My guest author is a writer whose work is mind-bendingly imaginative, with Norse gods, love-sick dragons and prehistoric-style peoples with complex cultures. 

Meanwhile, to bring me down-to-earth, work on our house continues, room by room ... we're getting there. 

Cheryl

PS: If this email was forwarded to you and you would like to sign up for my newsletter, you can do so here, and download your free copy of Dragon Gift.