For some reason, I thought it was a good idea to knock the hell out of my house at the same time as writing a book. Two tonnes of rubble, a load of supportive steel and a new kitchen later, every surface of the house is covered in a thin layer of dust. It’s going to take months to clean up!
This weekend we are going to decamp from our makeshift kitchen (eight weeks of garden cooking is enough) and move back in. Yay!
With all the building work going on, I frequented numerous cafés and coffee shops across Gloucestershire. I’m on first-name terms with most of them now! As long as I keep buying coffee they don’t seem to mind me sitting there with headphones on, furiously tapping the keys.
Joseph Bridgeman Book 3
I’m writing the next two Joseph Bridgeman books back-to-back and all of the planning is paying off. The new book is taking shape, the ending is coming together nicely and I can’t wait to share it with you! I’m currently working with my publisher on new titles and covers for the series too. I couldn’t be happier, they look stunning. A soon as I can, I will share them with you. It’s super exciting for these books to get another push from my publisher. Also, they will get a significant push on audio, which is becoming one of my favourite ways to consume books these days.
Audio
I’m listening to “The Institute,” by Stephen King. So far, it’s amazing — as expected. It’s no surprise that it’s creepy with dark undertones but, as always contains realistic characters and a surprising amount of hope and optimism. Okay, so Steve is letting rip on the establishment in his novels now – not just on Twitter – but I forgive him because he’s awesome.
Books
I’m finishing-off World War Z. I know it’s an oldie but it’s a hell of a goodie as well. Such a great concept; writing a retrospective, interview-style book on the earth-changing war with the undead. Fascinating stuff, well researched and expertly handled. From what I’ve heard the film bears almost no resemblance, so don’t bother.
I’m also reading “Checking Out” by Nick Spalding. Great concept, funny, with some mild, dark humour, which is right up my street. It’s also great input for Joe.
My partner, Kay, speaks numerous languages but sometimes finds there isn’t enough room for all of them at once. If we’re going to visit a country she will often listen, read and practice the language before we go. She describes it as loading the language in. I think it’s the same with writing, I like to read a good balance of things, particularly novels that will help get me back into Joe’s tone of voice, back into his world. Checking out is checking in.
Films
As some of you know, we have a film club with friends, where we try to introduce each other to interesting, slightly left-field movies. Recently watched The Big Lebowski and am now addicted to White Russians. What can I say, the Dude abides.
White Russian – 1 part Vodka, 1 part Kahlua, 1 part cream. All major food groups are covered.
Also, Kay and I recently watched a film called ‘Her’, starring Joaquin Phoenix. Highly recommended. A lonely man falling in love with his operating system. Sound weird? It is. But, it’s also really well handled and an interesting study on relationships, loneliness and our need for connection. It probably helps that Scarlett Johansson’s voice is easy to fall in love with!
Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzV6mXIOVl4
I’m desperate to see ‘Joker’. It’s already a success and I almost feel sorry for all those movie executives who are currently trying to figure out how to spin it out into numerous franchise films and Batman cross-overs. Top tip guys: just leave it there.
Interesting aside: Joaquin changed his surname from Bottom to Phoenix. Apparently, you pronounce his first name Whackin. For all my U.S. friends, bottom means butt. So, I can see why he changed it!
Call me a glutton for punishment but I’m excited about ‘The Mandalorian’. A Star Wars TV show with a decent budget and a gritty, in-the-trenches approach? I’m in. Mainly because Rian Johnson is nowhere near it, so there’s hope. It’s weird. Rian’s new film, ‘Knives Out’ is supposed to be very good. Just keep him away from Star Wars I reckon.
That’s it for now, I hope life is treating you well. As always, thanks to everyone who gets in touch, I’m knee-deep in writing so apologise in advance if I don’t always get back to you. I do read every email and it means a lot that you take the time to write.
Here’s a random quote from the new book. “When you love someone, that feeling isn’t given to you by them. Feeling loved comes from within. Love is an output, do you understand?”
Sending good vibes,
Nick
P.s. Back to the decorating!