Let's get the 'Greats' on Kindle

During my event with Tony Black, author of 'Truth Lies Bleeding' at the Edinburgh Book Festival, the popular subject of Scottish crime writing or Tartan Noir was raised. As we discussed its origins, an audience member pointed out that the 'Father' of gritty Scottish crime writing was actually in the audience. All heads turned to view the creator of Laidlaw, William McIllvanney. Lost for words (not usual for me) I attempted to explain the impact his writing and stories had had on me.
Later I discovered that Gordon Ferris author of The Hanging Shed had also been in the sell out audience that night. We met shortly afterwards at a CWA lunch. I revealed that I had gone home from my event and immediately attempted to buy 'The Kiln' by McIllvanney. Finding it out of print, I had to buy a secondhand copy, which meant McIllvanney made nothing from the sale of his book. Gordon and I both agreed that the 'Big' man's work had to be made available on Kindle. Fortunately, Gordon has already set the ball rolling. He and McIllvanney had lunch and discussed the matter. A big thank you to Gordon for that. I look forward to downloading all McIllvanney's books in the near future.
McIllvanney also revealed in his own event that he had written a new book, which no London publisher would touch. 'They don't know me down there'. More fool them, I say.

Society of Authors Conference - Learn all about e-books

There has never been a better time to be a writer.
I'll repeat that in case you think you misread it.
There has definitely never been a better time to be a writer.

If you want to know why, come along to the Society of Authors' conference on Sat 17th September and learn how the digital world has opened up possibilities for us that we could never have imagined. E-books are definitely not a problem but a wonderful opportunity. Come and hear how.

The conference takes place at The Surgeons' Hall Edinburgh and you don't need to be a member of the Society of Authors to attend. There is also an evening drinks reception where you can meet fellow writers, publishers and booksellers.

Details for booking
here