Sunday 23 April 2017

World Book Day

It's World Book Day everyday for me, but apparently it's official today!! I thought I'd do a mildly sappy post to express my gratitude to an author whose book I read in early 2014 that would change my life. Saving Wishes by GJ Walker-Smith. I was barely on Facebook and had no clue about the online book community, but when I finished the last page, I found her contact details and decided to send her a message. The book had consumed me like so few had done before or since. I never expected her to reply, but I felt like I needed to make contact (and ideally be her number 1 fan, climb inside her brain and hang out there forever in a totally non stalkerish creepy way of course!!)
She responded quickly and I may or may not have squealed. I immediately showed my husband who looked at me like I had lost my mind. That response right there introduced me not only to someone who has become one of my best friends, most respected authors and writing guru, but also to a whole community of like minded people.
I had started writing my debut, but never really thought I would actually publish it. Gemma encouraged, mentored and kicked my arse until it was written and has been an amazing support ever since. She told me I was a writer, bringing me to tears that still well up today when I think back to that moment. I owe her so much and hope my loyal friendship and epic fandom is enough!
Read her books. Her words are a gift to readers. <3
PS. Saving Wishes is perma-free on all platforms as it's the start of the highly addictive genius that is The Wishes Series.