So I just finished reading your first book, that you wrote like eight years ago. You have changed I suppose, but the book is great. And I had to read the rest! Spoiling what was supposed to be my working days – just reading your texts……

I also suppose that some of the things you write about at that time might have been self-experienced. That a major problem in reading books. You work with your own prejudices about the author/ess. Me being Swedish, having worked in the UK, having spent TOO much time in Ireland, and thinking about the normal trouble in a relation between a ‘AB/NORMAL’ man and a ditto women – I felt sad and laughing at the same time. And I love Carey’s caring mother. Thank´s for writing, and contributing to the world of human understanding. Big Hugs!

Peter

That’s a great question. There’s no doubt that the characters live on for a while in my mind after I finish a book and I do have some thoughts about what they might do afterwards. But I also like to let my readers make some decisions for them too and that’s why I don’t write full length sequels. However I have written a follow up short story for Isobel (from Isobel’s Wedding) which is in my Connections collection and another story featuring Andie, Cora and Jin from Anyone But Him is in my new collection A Season to Remember which comes out in October this year. So I don’t always let them go!!!!

best wishes
Sheila

I am an ardent reader of your books, I love your stuff! My son recently bought me the Kobo ereader through Chapters but I can’t find you on the ereader book list!!!!!!

Is there a plan to get you on the list of authors soon???

Thanks, Sherry
PS If need be, you’ll be the only hard copies I buy from now on…

I’m sorry to hear you didn’t enjoy The Perfect Man but I’m glad that it’s spurred you on to write your own book. I look forward to seeing it on the bookshelves.

best wishes
Sheila

It’s lovely to hear from such an ardent fan! I hope you’ve already got your copy of The Perfect Man and enjoyed it! The next publication in UK & Ireland on 2nd September is Stand By Me. It should be out in Canada around the same time so check with your local Chapters.

Happy reading!

Sheila

I have read many of your books and “How will i know” and “Too Good to be true” are my absolute favourites. Do you ever want to just carry on writing even when you at the end of a book? Do you think of what might happen after the end?

Laura

I assume this comment will not be published as I am “a bit” disappointed!! The perfect man is a book for teenagers or at least not past twentfive. And yes, I fully agree that there is a market there as well and that there is a contract to produce books asap. But, I liked your books. I could relate to them as a woman who has made a lot of mistakes in her life and will continue to do so. But this book, dear O`Flanagan was so naive and innocent and repetetive that I had to stop reading it. But, there is always a positive side and I have decided to give it a go just because of this book of yours. I am a serious booklover and have my own library of about 2000 books and finally I have realised that I can do better than this book of yours, admit it, it did not take much… Watch out for a coming star:)

I’m a Brit living in Canada, I’ve read all your books and check Chapter’s weekly for a new one, I’m desperate enough to start re-reading.

Please let me find one soon.

Nancy.

I’m delighted to think that The Perfect Man is pushing you towards writing your own book. Check out the FAQ part of my site which has tips on writing. The main thing, though, is to write the story you want to write about something that interests you. Don’t get caught up in thinking that you have to write a certain type of book or that it has to be a certain length. Just go with what feels right for you. Don’t try to do too much at once. Set yourself some realistic targets, particularly if you’re studying. Try to write something every day – even a short scene will mean you’ve made progress. When it comes to thinking about publication/editors/agents etc, get yourself a copy of the Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook (or subscribe online). It’s very helpful.

Best of luck
Sheila

It’s good to see you’ve done your research and know what’s best to send. It’s excellent that you can see natural chapter breaks in your work. Don’t worry about how long or short the chapters are. Just send them along with your synopsis (which doesn’t have to bee too long but should give the general overview of your novel). Remember to print your m/s in double spacing and preferably in 12pt size font.

Good luck with the writing and your wedding – have a wonderful honeymoon.

all the best
Sheila