Hey there, mystery lovers!
I’m writing to you from my desk, where I’m currently knee-deep in what might be the hardest book I’ve ever written: Final Script, the last instalment of the Seacastle Mystery series.
Yes, you read that right. The last one.
I won’t lie—saying goodbye to these characters feels like sending children off to university. They’ve been with me (and you!) for so long that it’s bittersweet to write that final page. But I’m determined to give them the send-off they deserve: a real banger of a mystery that ties everything together and leaves you satisfied.
But here’s the exciting part:
I’m not disappearing into the sunset. My next series is taking us somewhere completely unexpected – space!
Now, before you panic and think I’ve lost my cosy mystery mind, let me reassure you: this new series will have everything you love about Seacastle. Found family? Check. Witty banter? Absolutely. Twisty mysteries that keep you guessing? You bet. And yes, there will be a delicious will-they-won’t-they romance that’ll have you yelling at the characters to just kiss already.
Think of it as Seacastle… but with stars. You’re going to love it. I promise. And you’ll be the first to have a peep at the cover for book 1. So watch this space (geddit?)
Speaking of Good Reads…
I have begun reading the Vera series. It is nothing like the television version, which threw me at first. I have just started book three, and I hope to be convinced by it. It’s not bad writing; I just miss the scenes at the station and the ensemble cast in the tv show.
This is such a great reminder that books and their adaptations are different beasts! Sometimes the page gives us intimate character moments that the screen can’t quite capture, and sometimes the screen adds ensemble magic that books handle differently. If you’ve experienced this with a beloved adaptation, I’d love to hear about it—just hit reply!
Mark Your Calendars!
🎉 Poison Politics releases on December 31st – what better way to ring in the New Year than with a fresh mystery?
Can’t wait that long? The paperback is available right now on my website. Treat yourself to that new book smell before everyone else!
A Holiday Favour (That Costs Nothing)
I know many of you have read different series of mine over the years, and I’m so grateful for your loyalty. Here’s the thing: being an author is tougher than ever right now. The algorithms are fickle; the market is crowded, and visibility is… well, let’s just say it’s challenging.
If you’ve enjoyed my books, here are two things that help me more than you can imagine:
- Gift them to other readers in your life. Know someone who loves a good mystery? Pass along a recommendation (or an actual book!).
2. Leave reviews. Even a sentence or two makes a massive difference in helping new readers discover my work.
You all are my greatest champions, and I appreciate you more than words can express.
That’s all from me this week! I’m heading back to Seacastle to make sure Final Script is everything it needs to be.
Stay cosy, keep reading, and I’ll see you in your inbox soon.
Happy sleuthing!
PJ
P.S. – Have you ever wished a beloved series would go on forever, or are you team “end it while it’s good”? Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear your thoughts!