What's next?

The last 12 months have been quite a whirlwind, with the release of 'How Soon Is Now?' to a response beyond anything I could have imagined. But what comes next?

Well, 2025 is, if anything, going to be even busier. 'How Soon Is Now?' continues to meet new readers, and there are a few plans afoot which might help my first novel come to the attention of even more – more on that soon.

Next up is the February release of my second novel, 'End of a Century'. Continuing the musical theme after the Smiths-referencing title of 'How Soon Is Now?', 'End of a Century' also takes its title from one of my favourite songs. This time, the inspiration comes from Blur, from a track on 1994's 'Parklife' album.

There's so much to say about Book No.2, but let's save most of that for next year. For now, what can I tell you? Well, first of all, I love it to pieces. I had so much fun with this one, and it has a cast of characters I think you're going to love, too. Secondly, it's set in 1995. Thirdly ... it features a guest appearance from a character who first appeared in 'How Soon Is Now?' (but possibly not one you'd expect). I can't wait for you to meet Des, Poppy, Sanj and ... all the rest.

By design, 'End of a Century' is a very different book from 'How Soon Is Now?'. After deciding to go ahead and start putting my work out into the world (you can read more about that decision here), it made sense to use every bit of the freedom self-publishing offers and tell the stories I want to tell. Believe me, I loved telling Des's story, and if you enjoyed 'How Soon Is Now?', you'll love this trip to Britpop-era Glasgow and Camden.

'End of a Century' will be released on Friday, Febrary 14, 2025 – Valentine's Day! Which might give you a little clue to the general tone of the book...

And after that? Book three is under way, and books four and five are already beginning to take shape.

Book three will be a full-blooded return to the world of 'How Soon Is Now?' – this time we'll be focusing on Ruth's story, finding out more about the fate of her husband, Andy, meeting her now grown-up twins and dropping in on a few familiar faces along the way.

Books four and five look like being completely different – again! – with an exciting clash of genres in one and a fun dissection/reassembly of genre tropes at the heart of the other.

Anyway, I hope that's something to look forward to. More news as and when, but for now, I'd better get back to 'All Men Have Secrets', as Book No.3 is currently known...