** Date for your diary - Book signing on Saturday 22nd June, 11-1pm at Kenilworth Books, 12 Talisman Square, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 1JB. **
Last week was a bit of a whirlwind. It started with intense promotion on social media and interviews with the media in the build up to the release of How To Say Goodbye. Re-living what happened on the day I lost my dad has been so tough but I tried my hardest not to cry and ignored the wobble in my voice as I spoke to the journalists.
I also went to meet Nikki, the funeral arranger who the main character in the novel is very loosely based on. Nikki is the utmost professional, unlike the unconventional ways that Grace uses to create her funerals in a bid to give the perfect goodbye. It was such a special moment being able to hand her a copy of the book in the place where it all began, even if it hurt stepping foot back in the funeral home once more.
Seeing photos of me and my dad in the national newspapers was very odd but I have say that I’ve been blown away by the support I’ve received, especially from people who are sadly in the ‘grief club’ too.
Me and my best friend letting our hair down!
Publication day was just wonderful. It was so lovely to take a step back and allow myself time to soak it all up. I feel so proud at what I’ve created, proud at what has come out of such a horrific and tragic time. It felt like the best birthday ever! I had so many lovely messages, flowers, fizz and even a night out with my best friend to celebrate properly … with probably one too many gins, judging by how sore my head was the next day.
Then there was father’s day - always a tough one but this year it felt even harder on the back of such a high. However, I’m trying to stay positive and focus on what I have achieved in my dad’s honour, knowing how proud he would be.
Thank you to everyone who has bought a copy of the book and told their friends and family to do the same! Reading the early reviews has lifted my heart beyond measure. I’m so thrilled that people are both enjoying Grace’s story but also that they understand what I was trying to achieve - to show that you are not alone in your grief, no matter utterly isolating it can feel at times.
Signed copies ready at Kenilworth Books!
Then, coming up, I’ll be doing an informal book signing at Kenilworth Books on Saturday 22nd June from 11-1pm. If you’re local and can pop in it would be great to see you. I’d love to sign a book for you, have a chat and generally share the bookish love! I’m lucky to have such a fab indie bookshop on my doorstep that’s run by a bunch of extremely passionate booksellers.
I’ve also got some magazines interested in my crazy journey, once I know more I will let you know too! Promotion is really fun but when it’s a subject so close to your heart it can be draining, this is why it means so much to have such wonderful readers supporting me.
If you have read How To Say Goodbye and enjoyed it then please would you leave a review on Amazon? It only takes a few minutes but reviews make a huge difference to authors. Think of it as leaving a tip in a restaurant!
Thank you again for your support. I don’t take any of this for granted. You are the best!