A.R. Merrydew's Blog
September 2, 2025
'The Next Adventure'
Good Afternoon,
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your week so far.
We are back in Sussex once more, just in time or so it would seem. From the news reports, Cornwall is now taking a hammering with torrential rain, flooding, and damage to property.
It seems unbelievable when I look back at some of the photos I took during my travels. But that’s the British climate, and in particular Cornwall as it takes the brunt of the storms coming in from the Atlantic.
So, what next I ask myself looking at the map of the British Isles? I had planned to venture North, and discover the outter reaches of Scotland. In fact, the itinerary for the North Coast 500 had been logged, and was thwarted only by the offer of looking after a farm in Cornwall for a month. An offer I am pleased I took, as the experience was one I enjoyed beyond words.
But before Vera2 and I head north, if that is where the road takes us this time, we have some routine maintenance, and cosmetics to undertake. Vera sustained a damaged front wing in a carpark. Although the repairs have been paid for by the other party, ordering parts and fitting them will eat into September.
The braking system needs a thorough check over, as the hills in Devon and Cornwall ate into brake pads and discs alike. In short, once we have a clean bill of health on the old girl, there will be another destination on the horizon for sure.
Reverting now to the subject of books for a moment, I am amazed at the numbers Goodreads are posting on my authors page. Again this month, The Dumb Dumb’s Handbook to Twin Flame Relationships has increased dramatically.
My sincere thanks to those of you who have put a copy on their shelf, and for those of you who have purchased a copy in one format of another.
I have placed a selection of links below to reels that have been posted on Facebook and various other media platforms. I hope you enjoy them.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/ymbvpmz4
Link - https://tinyurl.com/4v48dxtj
Link - https://tinyurl.com/yvypkjnw
Link -https://tinyurl.com/4nstcstf
With the longest day of the year now well behind us, the evenings are drawing in again as they do at this time of year. Time to put the kettle on for an evening brew, before settling down for the night. Time also to bid you farewell until my next article.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your week so far.
We are back in Sussex once more, just in time or so it would seem. From the news reports, Cornwall is now taking a hammering with torrential rain, flooding, and damage to property.
It seems unbelievable when I look back at some of the photos I took during my travels. But that’s the British climate, and in particular Cornwall as it takes the brunt of the storms coming in from the Atlantic.
So, what next I ask myself looking at the map of the British Isles? I had planned to venture North, and discover the outter reaches of Scotland. In fact, the itinerary for the North Coast 500 had been logged, and was thwarted only by the offer of looking after a farm in Cornwall for a month. An offer I am pleased I took, as the experience was one I enjoyed beyond words.
But before Vera2 and I head north, if that is where the road takes us this time, we have some routine maintenance, and cosmetics to undertake. Vera sustained a damaged front wing in a carpark. Although the repairs have been paid for by the other party, ordering parts and fitting them will eat into September.
The braking system needs a thorough check over, as the hills in Devon and Cornwall ate into brake pads and discs alike. In short, once we have a clean bill of health on the old girl, there will be another destination on the horizon for sure.
Reverting now to the subject of books for a moment, I am amazed at the numbers Goodreads are posting on my authors page. Again this month, The Dumb Dumb’s Handbook to Twin Flame Relationships has increased dramatically.
My sincere thanks to those of you who have put a copy on their shelf, and for those of you who have purchased a copy in one format of another.
I have placed a selection of links below to reels that have been posted on Facebook and various other media platforms. I hope you enjoy them.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/ymbvpmz4
Link - https://tinyurl.com/4v48dxtj
Link - https://tinyurl.com/yvypkjnw
Link -https://tinyurl.com/4nstcstf
With the longest day of the year now well behind us, the evenings are drawing in again as they do at this time of year. Time to put the kettle on for an evening brew, before settling down for the night. Time also to bid you farewell until my next article.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
August 23, 2025
'My Travels Continue'
Good Afternoon,
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your weekend.
Well as the gods would have it, Vera2 and I are moored up in a field again, beneath a warm afternoon sun, and by all accounts it is a Bank Holiday weekend to boot. As charging the batteries depends on either the solar panels, or the on-board acoustic generator, the former is most definitely occurring at the moment.
With the HP topping itself up, I felt the opportunity could not be missed to continue where I left off from my last Goodreads article.
After leaving Joe and the Goonhilly Hill Earth Station we ventured West and visited the Lizard. The hour was perfect, as the roads to this world famous part of Cornwall were clear. So clear in fact, when we arrived at the Lizard carpark opposite the lighthouse, Vera2 was the only vehicle present.
The views are unique, and taking the track down towards the cliffs, they were further enhanced by the vista where the land meets the sea.
The Lizard Lighthouse is Britain's most southerly point, and the first lighthouse was built in 1619 by Sir John Killigrew. The current twin-towered structure dates from 1752. Initially powered by coal and of course manned throughout its operation. It was converted to oil in 1811 and subsequently taken over by Trinity House in 1771.
There was an upgrade in 1874 when electrical generation was introduced, which led to the replacement of one tower's light with a single, powerful rotating optic in the other in 1903. The lighthouse was automated in 1998, and keepers departed in 1998. The original engine room now houses the Lizard Lighthouse Heritage Centre.
By the time we left, the main road in the Lizard had become noticeably populated by people and their cars, who like myself were keen to visit this attraction. Pressing on, our next port of call was Porthleven, the most southerly port in Great Britain.
Porthleven was a harbour of refuge in the days of sail, and walking the quayside, it is easy to imagine those vessels, and their crews both heaving a sigh of relief when the lines were secured.
It was also a place of tragedy in December 1978, when a police car was swept into the sea when a large wave engulfed officers PC Joe Childs and PC Martin Reid. The officers were investigating something in the harbour during a severe storm when the incident occurred. They were subsequently drowned and their bodies were found after the storm passed.
It struck me that at every twist and turn in this beautiful county, there is a story to tell, some more notable perhaps than others.
Nevertheless, Cornwall’s charm expands beyond those little communities nestling on cliff tops and in harbour quays, built from stone and slate, defying those winter storms. These structures almost advertise their belligerence regarding the elements. We are here, and we shall remain so.
Saying goodbye to Porthleven, we skirted Prussia Cove, Marazion and Penzance later that day, en-route to that final craggy headland, before the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. I refer to Lands End of course.
Having been undeterred by many people who had shared their opinion of Lands End, and their own experiences, I simply had to see for myself.
Well the traffic was nowhere near as bad as predicted, however that may have been due to the grey and miserable skies. It made more than a few I’m sure consider visiting on a warmer dryer day.
The venue was utterly swarming in tourists however, when I finally made it the one of Great Britain’s most famous destinations. It had the ambience of a seaside funfair, with parking tariffs to match. Following a brief conversation with a parking attendant regarding the first ten minutes were free, I undertook a rapid selection of photos, tipped my cap and hightailed it as quickly as I could.
Will little time to catch my breath, we were heading towards St Ives, another heaving mass of holiday makers spilling over the pavements and into the roads. As you can guess from my tone, St Ives in peak season is not my cup of tea.
Setting the sat nav for the outskirts of Hayle, tranquillity was served, well almost, with the last pitch at the Gwithian Farm Campsite. After my day, spent discovering a couple of the venues described above, it offered a quiet haven, with hot showers and an overnight.
Needless to say curiosity ruled over my common sense and having a relaxing hour or two. And so off I went to discover Gwithian and the beaches.
This will wait I am sure for another day and another article. In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/2t5h85nh
Link - https://tinyurl.com/yeynytwh
Link - https://tinyurl.com/ywyday4p
Link - https://tinyurl.com/4pjdyzze
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be.
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your weekend.
Well as the gods would have it, Vera2 and I are moored up in a field again, beneath a warm afternoon sun, and by all accounts it is a Bank Holiday weekend to boot. As charging the batteries depends on either the solar panels, or the on-board acoustic generator, the former is most definitely occurring at the moment.
With the HP topping itself up, I felt the opportunity could not be missed to continue where I left off from my last Goodreads article.
After leaving Joe and the Goonhilly Hill Earth Station we ventured West and visited the Lizard. The hour was perfect, as the roads to this world famous part of Cornwall were clear. So clear in fact, when we arrived at the Lizard carpark opposite the lighthouse, Vera2 was the only vehicle present.
The views are unique, and taking the track down towards the cliffs, they were further enhanced by the vista where the land meets the sea.
The Lizard Lighthouse is Britain's most southerly point, and the first lighthouse was built in 1619 by Sir John Killigrew. The current twin-towered structure dates from 1752. Initially powered by coal and of course manned throughout its operation. It was converted to oil in 1811 and subsequently taken over by Trinity House in 1771.
There was an upgrade in 1874 when electrical generation was introduced, which led to the replacement of one tower's light with a single, powerful rotating optic in the other in 1903. The lighthouse was automated in 1998, and keepers departed in 1998. The original engine room now houses the Lizard Lighthouse Heritage Centre.
By the time we left, the main road in the Lizard had become noticeably populated by people and their cars, who like myself were keen to visit this attraction. Pressing on, our next port of call was Porthleven, the most southerly port in Great Britain.
Porthleven was a harbour of refuge in the days of sail, and walking the quayside, it is easy to imagine those vessels, and their crews both heaving a sigh of relief when the lines were secured.
It was also a place of tragedy in December 1978, when a police car was swept into the sea when a large wave engulfed officers PC Joe Childs and PC Martin Reid. The officers were investigating something in the harbour during a severe storm when the incident occurred. They were subsequently drowned and their bodies were found after the storm passed.
It struck me that at every twist and turn in this beautiful county, there is a story to tell, some more notable perhaps than others.
Nevertheless, Cornwall’s charm expands beyond those little communities nestling on cliff tops and in harbour quays, built from stone and slate, defying those winter storms. These structures almost advertise their belligerence regarding the elements. We are here, and we shall remain so.
Saying goodbye to Porthleven, we skirted Prussia Cove, Marazion and Penzance later that day, en-route to that final craggy headland, before the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. I refer to Lands End of course.
Having been undeterred by many people who had shared their opinion of Lands End, and their own experiences, I simply had to see for myself.
Well the traffic was nowhere near as bad as predicted, however that may have been due to the grey and miserable skies. It made more than a few I’m sure consider visiting on a warmer dryer day.
The venue was utterly swarming in tourists however, when I finally made it the one of Great Britain’s most famous destinations. It had the ambience of a seaside funfair, with parking tariffs to match. Following a brief conversation with a parking attendant regarding the first ten minutes were free, I undertook a rapid selection of photos, tipped my cap and hightailed it as quickly as I could.
Will little time to catch my breath, we were heading towards St Ives, another heaving mass of holiday makers spilling over the pavements and into the roads. As you can guess from my tone, St Ives in peak season is not my cup of tea.
Setting the sat nav for the outskirts of Hayle, tranquillity was served, well almost, with the last pitch at the Gwithian Farm Campsite. After my day, spent discovering a couple of the venues described above, it offered a quiet haven, with hot showers and an overnight.
Needless to say curiosity ruled over my common sense and having a relaxing hour or two. And so off I went to discover Gwithian and the beaches.
This will wait I am sure for another day and another article. In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/2t5h85nh
Link - https://tinyurl.com/yeynytwh
Link - https://tinyurl.com/ywyday4p
Link - https://tinyurl.com/4pjdyzze
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be.
Best Wishes
AR
August 19, 2025
'Time has Wing's'
Good Afternoon,
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your week.
As usual, time has been the governing factor regarding this latest article, and the lack of Internet too I might add. The hours fly by each day, and before I realised it, yet another ten days has flown by. My life was never always this carefree. As many of you reading this still are I’m sure, locked into daily routines that revolve around your work commitments.
I too spent a lifetime working, sometimes ridiculous hours, if a particular contract demand it. Work is a regulator to one’s life, a routine that marks off the day’s on the calendar. The reward is an annual holiday, hopefully somewhere pleasant, for those two weeks with family and friends.
My day’s now though, are ungoverned by the demands of a job, yet they still seem as busy as they were before I chose this new life. The ten days since my last post have evaporated in the blink of an eye, yet it seems I have been as busy as if I were still gainfully employed.
If you have read my last article, I was about to leave the Ship Inn at Par Sands. To give you an idea of my journey since then, I would have to write a small novel it would seem, as I have covered an awful lot of ground. The brief outline goes something like this.
Driving from Par, I headed West to a lovely pub named The Engine Inn. It is situated in a place called Cripplesease. The idea was to meet up with my son, and grandson who were driving down from Appledore in North Devon.
We met up and had an overnight there in the pub carpark, as the owners are receptive to motorhomes and vans alike. The following day, the boys headed off to St Ives for a boat trip around the bay, while I drove to Polkerris Divers.
The access to the beach was hair-raising to say the least, especially with a vehicle as large as Vera2. The nearside wing mirror folded in several times, as the floral in these narrow lanes did its best to deny me entry.
The arrival was worth every pearl of sweat I can assure you, as Porthkerris turned out to be an absolute gem of a venue. It was so good, the boys and I stayed until the Monday when they had to return home. It has marked the high point in my journey this summer, especially as I had the pleasure of watching the boys enjoying themselves.
But all good things come to an end, as did our stay. On the Monday we left in our little convoy to the village of St Keverne, were we said our goodbyes. They boys headed East, and I turned West, for what proved to be another epic day.
The first stop was on route, the Goonhilly Earth Station for photos of the old satellite dish that few realise is of historical significance. Meeting Joe on the gate, he was keen to describe the history of the dish, and that it received the first footage of the moon landing in July of 1969. NASA at the time were on the other side of the Earth and unable to receive this historic footage directly.
As for the remainder of that Monday, well you will have to wait unfortunately as the trusty laptop needs feeding yet again. I will of course continue the story as soon as I possibly can, before my adventures in Cornwall amount to a sizeable novel, and not a small blog. 😊
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/53s5ut3s
Link - https://tinyurl.com/574nue83
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your week.
As usual, time has been the governing factor regarding this latest article, and the lack of Internet too I might add. The hours fly by each day, and before I realised it, yet another ten days has flown by. My life was never always this carefree. As many of you reading this still are I’m sure, locked into daily routines that revolve around your work commitments.
I too spent a lifetime working, sometimes ridiculous hours, if a particular contract demand it. Work is a regulator to one’s life, a routine that marks off the day’s on the calendar. The reward is an annual holiday, hopefully somewhere pleasant, for those two weeks with family and friends.
My day’s now though, are ungoverned by the demands of a job, yet they still seem as busy as they were before I chose this new life. The ten days since my last post have evaporated in the blink of an eye, yet it seems I have been as busy as if I were still gainfully employed.
If you have read my last article, I was about to leave the Ship Inn at Par Sands. To give you an idea of my journey since then, I would have to write a small novel it would seem, as I have covered an awful lot of ground. The brief outline goes something like this.
Driving from Par, I headed West to a lovely pub named The Engine Inn. It is situated in a place called Cripplesease. The idea was to meet up with my son, and grandson who were driving down from Appledore in North Devon.
We met up and had an overnight there in the pub carpark, as the owners are receptive to motorhomes and vans alike. The following day, the boys headed off to St Ives for a boat trip around the bay, while I drove to Polkerris Divers.
The access to the beach was hair-raising to say the least, especially with a vehicle as large as Vera2. The nearside wing mirror folded in several times, as the floral in these narrow lanes did its best to deny me entry.
The arrival was worth every pearl of sweat I can assure you, as Porthkerris turned out to be an absolute gem of a venue. It was so good, the boys and I stayed until the Monday when they had to return home. It has marked the high point in my journey this summer, especially as I had the pleasure of watching the boys enjoying themselves.
But all good things come to an end, as did our stay. On the Monday we left in our little convoy to the village of St Keverne, were we said our goodbyes. They boys headed East, and I turned West, for what proved to be another epic day.
The first stop was on route, the Goonhilly Earth Station for photos of the old satellite dish that few realise is of historical significance. Meeting Joe on the gate, he was keen to describe the history of the dish, and that it received the first footage of the moon landing in July of 1969. NASA at the time were on the other side of the Earth and unable to receive this historic footage directly.
As for the remainder of that Monday, well you will have to wait unfortunately as the trusty laptop needs feeding yet again. I will of course continue the story as soon as I possibly can, before my adventures in Cornwall amount to a sizeable novel, and not a small blog. 😊
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/53s5ut3s
Link - https://tinyurl.com/574nue83
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
August 9, 2025
'Saying Goodbye to Sunny'
Good Morning,
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your weekend.
Well, two weeks or so have flown by once again, and my tenure at the farm finally came to an end on Monday 4th of August.
The owners returned and were elated at my efforts in maintaining their little piece of Cornwall. Fences had been mended, meadow’s mowed, and the Kubota serviced and ready for work again. Even the pigs had behaved themselves, and the goats had also fallen into a routine, based on feeding them treats of course.
It was something of a wrench though, leaving on that Monday morning I can tell you. I have to confess the hardest parting was with Sunny, and saying goodbye to him. Our early morning routine having my tea and sharing my biscuits with him across the top of a five bar gate had finally come to an end.
Each afternoon when trekking across the meadows to the feed the pigs, he would follow me side by side. Their was of course a handful of grain at the end of it for his troubles. I will miss him without a doubt.
Monday 4th saw Vera and I topping up with fuel and food in St Austell, then heading to a lovely campsite called Innis Inn quite close by. It was a handy base from where I was able to explore the Innis Fisheries, a picturesque selection of fishing lakes.
When time allows, I will post pictures and a reel of this beautiful place. The owner and I talked for some time about the history of the lakes and the surrounding land, which he had worked on for over five decades.
My next port of call was Par Sands for a couple of days, and a walk along the headland to Polkerris, which I had promised myself for some time. The scenery is outstanding, and the walk was blessed with glorious sunshine virtually all day. My experience promoted a reel, which has already been posted on Linkedin and Facebook.
After an enjoyable day exploring Par Sands, and the walk along the headland to Polkerris, I gave the Ship Inn a call. On the way to the parking area at the beach I had noticed a motorhome parked in their grounds, and sure enough, Kelly informed me that they were happy for me to do an overnight stay.
The parking area for motorhomes is large enough for fifteen vehicles at least, if not more, and there is an outside toilet that is open all night.
The menu could not be ignore of course, and that evening I had a lovely meal in the gardens sampling the local caught cod for dinner. The staff are a great bunch, and it’s a refreshing change to see a smiling face on my stop over’s. So many places I visit lack the congenial approach to their patrons, and the Ship Inn and their staff are the opposite end of the spectrum.
But then this is Cornwall, and the ethos here is very different when welcoming a stranger.
The following morning, I ventured into Par for a haircut at Endean’s. By the time Stella had given me an estimate for my long overdue haircut, I returned the to the Ship Inn early afternoon. It was clearly too late to move on, so I booked in for a second night.
Oh, what hardship I thought, so I consoled myself with exploring the pub’s menu still further. I was glad I did, and not just for the monstrous bacon cheeseburger, the Ship Inn had a choir performing in their bandstand that evening.
I would like to thank Cathy, Mick, Kelly, Connor, and all of the other staff for such a lovely stay at the Ship Inn. If I am in Cornwall again, I will certainly come and visit you, I promise.
My adventures continue, and I will piece together another article as soon as time and an Internet signal allows.
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/yw3ww7mc
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your weekend.
Well, two weeks or so have flown by once again, and my tenure at the farm finally came to an end on Monday 4th of August.
The owners returned and were elated at my efforts in maintaining their little piece of Cornwall. Fences had been mended, meadow’s mowed, and the Kubota serviced and ready for work again. Even the pigs had behaved themselves, and the goats had also fallen into a routine, based on feeding them treats of course.
It was something of a wrench though, leaving on that Monday morning I can tell you. I have to confess the hardest parting was with Sunny, and saying goodbye to him. Our early morning routine having my tea and sharing my biscuits with him across the top of a five bar gate had finally come to an end.
Each afternoon when trekking across the meadows to the feed the pigs, he would follow me side by side. Their was of course a handful of grain at the end of it for his troubles. I will miss him without a doubt.
Monday 4th saw Vera and I topping up with fuel and food in St Austell, then heading to a lovely campsite called Innis Inn quite close by. It was a handy base from where I was able to explore the Innis Fisheries, a picturesque selection of fishing lakes.
When time allows, I will post pictures and a reel of this beautiful place. The owner and I talked for some time about the history of the lakes and the surrounding land, which he had worked on for over five decades.
My next port of call was Par Sands for a couple of days, and a walk along the headland to Polkerris, which I had promised myself for some time. The scenery is outstanding, and the walk was blessed with glorious sunshine virtually all day. My experience promoted a reel, which has already been posted on Linkedin and Facebook.
After an enjoyable day exploring Par Sands, and the walk along the headland to Polkerris, I gave the Ship Inn a call. On the way to the parking area at the beach I had noticed a motorhome parked in their grounds, and sure enough, Kelly informed me that they were happy for me to do an overnight stay.
The parking area for motorhomes is large enough for fifteen vehicles at least, if not more, and there is an outside toilet that is open all night.
The menu could not be ignore of course, and that evening I had a lovely meal in the gardens sampling the local caught cod for dinner. The staff are a great bunch, and it’s a refreshing change to see a smiling face on my stop over’s. So many places I visit lack the congenial approach to their patrons, and the Ship Inn and their staff are the opposite end of the spectrum.
But then this is Cornwall, and the ethos here is very different when welcoming a stranger.
The following morning, I ventured into Par for a haircut at Endean’s. By the time Stella had given me an estimate for my long overdue haircut, I returned the to the Ship Inn early afternoon. It was clearly too late to move on, so I booked in for a second night.
Oh, what hardship I thought, so I consoled myself with exploring the pub’s menu still further. I was glad I did, and not just for the monstrous bacon cheeseburger, the Ship Inn had a choir performing in their bandstand that evening.
I would like to thank Cathy, Mick, Kelly, Connor, and all of the other staff for such a lovely stay at the Ship Inn. If I am in Cornwall again, I will certainly come and visit you, I promise.
My adventures continue, and I will piece together another article as soon as time and an Internet signal allows.
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/yw3ww7mc
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
July 20, 2025
'The Cornish Coast'
Good Afternoon,
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your weekend.
Another week has come and gone as they do, and life here in the middle of nowhere has been busy as my weeks normally are. Most of my time other than my duties here on the farm, have involved promoting my books. Whilst I am on that subject, I would like to extend a huge thank you to all of you, who have put a copy of the Dumb Dumb’s Handbook To Twin Flames on their shelves to read. The response to this particular book has been astounding.
I could give you a synopsis of this weeks weather, though it would not be a good one, and it has been noticeable how the nights are drawing in again post mid-summers night. There is a feeling that the best of the summer is over, which I sincerely hope it’s not.
When the owners return at the end of the month I am hoping to go and explore some of Cornwall’s coastal treasure’s such as Par for example. There are others on the list of must see places the likes of Mevagissey, Mousehole and Port Issac as well, while Vera and I are in the area so to speak.
It was last night when a friend called me, we entered into a conversation regarding Cornwall and some of the places he has visited over the years. He and I are both keen sailors, and the sea naturally drifted into our conversation. The stories old and new that relate to the hundreds of wrecks, the Cornish coastline now serves as their final resting place.
There was one tragedy that caught my attention when he spoke of the Solomon Browne, and the Penlee lifeboat. This tragedy occurred on the 19th December 1981, when the RNLI lifeboat Solomon Browne, put to sea and went to the aid of a vessel named the Union Star after its engines failed in heavy seas. After the lifeboat had rescued four people, both vessels were lost with all hands. Sixteen people died, including eight volunteer lifeboatmen.
Stories like these invoke an imagination in me, and have done so all of my life. Having myself been the victim of drowning at the age of sixteen, being resuscitated and able to continue my path in this life was truly a blessing.
On a more cheerful note, it is now 15.15 pm on Sunday afternoon, and I must put down my pen figuratively speaking, and head to the lower meadow. There will be a shire horse waiting for my presence with his fresh water, and a nice apple as his treat for today.
The thought occurred to me looking back at a previous post regarding Sunny, and how quickly animals adopt routines, especially those involving food. I should have included myself in this daily pageant, as I too seem to have adopted the rhythm of life in the Cornish countryside as well.
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/pzc222km
Link - https://tinyurl.com/msvv5jy6
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world, and enjoying your weekend.
Another week has come and gone as they do, and life here in the middle of nowhere has been busy as my weeks normally are. Most of my time other than my duties here on the farm, have involved promoting my books. Whilst I am on that subject, I would like to extend a huge thank you to all of you, who have put a copy of the Dumb Dumb’s Handbook To Twin Flames on their shelves to read. The response to this particular book has been astounding.
I could give you a synopsis of this weeks weather, though it would not be a good one, and it has been noticeable how the nights are drawing in again post mid-summers night. There is a feeling that the best of the summer is over, which I sincerely hope it’s not.
When the owners return at the end of the month I am hoping to go and explore some of Cornwall’s coastal treasure’s such as Par for example. There are others on the list of must see places the likes of Mevagissey, Mousehole and Port Issac as well, while Vera and I are in the area so to speak.
It was last night when a friend called me, we entered into a conversation regarding Cornwall and some of the places he has visited over the years. He and I are both keen sailors, and the sea naturally drifted into our conversation. The stories old and new that relate to the hundreds of wrecks, the Cornish coastline now serves as their final resting place.
There was one tragedy that caught my attention when he spoke of the Solomon Browne, and the Penlee lifeboat. This tragedy occurred on the 19th December 1981, when the RNLI lifeboat Solomon Browne, put to sea and went to the aid of a vessel named the Union Star after its engines failed in heavy seas. After the lifeboat had rescued four people, both vessels were lost with all hands. Sixteen people died, including eight volunteer lifeboatmen.
Stories like these invoke an imagination in me, and have done so all of my life. Having myself been the victim of drowning at the age of sixteen, being resuscitated and able to continue my path in this life was truly a blessing.
On a more cheerful note, it is now 15.15 pm on Sunday afternoon, and I must put down my pen figuratively speaking, and head to the lower meadow. There will be a shire horse waiting for my presence with his fresh water, and a nice apple as his treat for today.
The thought occurred to me looking back at a previous post regarding Sunny, and how quickly animals adopt routines, especially those involving food. I should have included myself in this daily pageant, as I too seem to have adopted the rhythm of life in the Cornish countryside as well.
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/pzc222km
Link - https://tinyurl.com/msvv5jy6
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
July 10, 2025
'The Casualties of Modern Advertising'
Good Afternoon,
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world.
The weather here today is astounding to say the least. Even with the windows, roof vents and doors open, Vera2 recorded 32c.
Obviously it was too hot to try and function on the writing front, or anything else for that matter, so the PC and I descended upon a cool spot in the cabin here on the farm.
This week I have been experimenting with another AI program, with which I can animate previous digital designs, and piece them together in a reel to advertise my books. Harmless enough one would think, though there were one or two diehards who voiced a small, and somewhat significant concern.
It appears there are still people out there who cannot accept the current state of affairs regarding AI, and its impact on society and jobs in particular.
I am not going to descend into my thoughts, beliefs, viewpoint or otherwise regarding the morality of advertising said collection of books with AI designs and or reels. However, I will say this. We collectively are too far down the road of change with regards to AI, and all that it can do to promote not just books, but every other product on the shelf of modern day life.
We have for a long time sat happily whilst ensconced in another block buster from Hollywood, not questioning the characters, the backdrop, or the fabulous scenes conjured up by CGI. Even the stars now have digital copies of themselves, to ensure films can be completed in the event of their untimely demise.
So what is the issue really? Is it because AI is now knocking on our door?
Several months ago, a good friend of mine in the literary world told me the story of his friend who had been a victim of job losses directly based on AI. For years she had been a voice over artist undertaking work on multiple fronts such as films, adverts for TV and commercial training videos. For the last six months she has worked in a bakery, as the result of losing her job, and she will not be the last.
When making an animated advert to promote your product becomes this easy, who isn’t going to pick up the ball and run with it. As always, I tend to think outside of the box, and this question of advertising was directed at our wonderful ChatGPT for its spin on the subject.
One would imagine the machine is hardly likely to produce anything that would come across as negative, for fear of finding themselves working in a cake shop as an alternative. So here you have the response to my question – ‘What is the best way to advertise my books.’
Why Video Ads Are the Future of Book Promotion
In today's fast-paced digital landscape, video advertising is quickly overtaking still imagery as the most effective way to capture attention, especially when it comes to promoting books. While traditional book ads featuring still images and quotes can be visually appealing, they often fall short in today’s scroll-heavy social media environment. Videos, on the other hand, have the power to tell a story, build emotional resonance, and engage viewers in ways static visuals cannot.
A well-crafted video trailer for your book allows potential readers to experience the tone, genre, and atmosphere of your story in just a few seconds. Music, motion graphics, narration, and text overlays all work together to create a compelling snapshot of your book’s essence. These sensory cues lead to higher engagement rates, longer viewing times, and more shares compared to static posts.
Additionally, video content is favoured by social media algorithms. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are designed to boost video over still images, making it more likely for your content to be seen by a larger audience. With the rise of book communities on TikTok ("BookTok"), video ads are especially potent in reaching passionate readers who trust peer recommendations and emotional storytelling.
The most popular book promotions are now video-based, cinematic trailers, animated excerpts, or even short author-read segments. These formats evoke curiosity and emotional investment, making your book not just seen, but felt. If you're looking to maximize visibility and sales, investing in video ads is no longer optional, it's essential.
Well there you have it, the machine clearly has a handle on the numbers and the trends that are populating social media, and all that sail in her. 😊
In the meantime, here are selection of links to reels I have produced this week. Take a look and see what you think.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/2twm22mn
Link - https://tinyurl.com/48zeh7y3
Link - https://tinyurl.com/3rptwwvf
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors,
I hope you are all well, wherever you are in the world.
The weather here today is astounding to say the least. Even with the windows, roof vents and doors open, Vera2 recorded 32c.
Obviously it was too hot to try and function on the writing front, or anything else for that matter, so the PC and I descended upon a cool spot in the cabin here on the farm.
This week I have been experimenting with another AI program, with which I can animate previous digital designs, and piece them together in a reel to advertise my books. Harmless enough one would think, though there were one or two diehards who voiced a small, and somewhat significant concern.
It appears there are still people out there who cannot accept the current state of affairs regarding AI, and its impact on society and jobs in particular.
I am not going to descend into my thoughts, beliefs, viewpoint or otherwise regarding the morality of advertising said collection of books with AI designs and or reels. However, I will say this. We collectively are too far down the road of change with regards to AI, and all that it can do to promote not just books, but every other product on the shelf of modern day life.
We have for a long time sat happily whilst ensconced in another block buster from Hollywood, not questioning the characters, the backdrop, or the fabulous scenes conjured up by CGI. Even the stars now have digital copies of themselves, to ensure films can be completed in the event of their untimely demise.
So what is the issue really? Is it because AI is now knocking on our door?
Several months ago, a good friend of mine in the literary world told me the story of his friend who had been a victim of job losses directly based on AI. For years she had been a voice over artist undertaking work on multiple fronts such as films, adverts for TV and commercial training videos. For the last six months she has worked in a bakery, as the result of losing her job, and she will not be the last.
When making an animated advert to promote your product becomes this easy, who isn’t going to pick up the ball and run with it. As always, I tend to think outside of the box, and this question of advertising was directed at our wonderful ChatGPT for its spin on the subject.
One would imagine the machine is hardly likely to produce anything that would come across as negative, for fear of finding themselves working in a cake shop as an alternative. So here you have the response to my question – ‘What is the best way to advertise my books.’
Why Video Ads Are the Future of Book Promotion
In today's fast-paced digital landscape, video advertising is quickly overtaking still imagery as the most effective way to capture attention, especially when it comes to promoting books. While traditional book ads featuring still images and quotes can be visually appealing, they often fall short in today’s scroll-heavy social media environment. Videos, on the other hand, have the power to tell a story, build emotional resonance, and engage viewers in ways static visuals cannot.
A well-crafted video trailer for your book allows potential readers to experience the tone, genre, and atmosphere of your story in just a few seconds. Music, motion graphics, narration, and text overlays all work together to create a compelling snapshot of your book’s essence. These sensory cues lead to higher engagement rates, longer viewing times, and more shares compared to static posts.
Additionally, video content is favoured by social media algorithms. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are designed to boost video over still images, making it more likely for your content to be seen by a larger audience. With the rise of book communities on TikTok ("BookTok"), video ads are especially potent in reaching passionate readers who trust peer recommendations and emotional storytelling.
The most popular book promotions are now video-based, cinematic trailers, animated excerpts, or even short author-read segments. These formats evoke curiosity and emotional investment, making your book not just seen, but felt. If you're looking to maximize visibility and sales, investing in video ads is no longer optional, it's essential.
Well there you have it, the machine clearly has a handle on the numbers and the trends that are populating social media, and all that sail in her. 😊
In the meantime, here are selection of links to reels I have produced this week. Take a look and see what you think.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/2twm22mn
Link - https://tinyurl.com/48zeh7y3
Link - https://tinyurl.com/3rptwwvf
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
July 4, 2025
'Why have a Dog?'
Good Morning,
Fellow Readers and Authors, Happy Friday!
As we all await the weekend, the weather here in Cornwall has made an effort to impress us thankfully with blue skies and sunshine. I hope your day has been blessed with the same, wherever you are in the world.
This week has flown by, punctuated with the daily chores here on the farm, which seems to make the days shorter somehow. The rhythm on the farm is one of constant routine for me, with the animals being the greatest responsibility. Their welfare starts each morning with feeding the two farm cats, checking on the goats, and monitoring the pigs and their security, which I will come back to later.
By the time the water system has been fired up before the sun clears the trees, and the vegetable garden has been addressed, it’s time to wander down to the lower paddock. I go and say good morning to ‘Sunny’ the resident shire horse, and check in on him.
Animals never cease to amaze me with their intelligence, and in particular, their ability to learn routines. Each afternoon I take a ten gallon water container down to his trough at around three fifteen. The first day I did this, I gave him a biscuit. Well, ‘Hope’ the Maremma farm dog is away with her owner, so I didn’t want them going to waste.
By day three, ‘Sunny’ was waiting patently at his trough at three fifteen for his afternoon treat.
I referred at the start of this article, about the pigs and their security. Well, I have had something of an issue on this front, but nothing serious. In fact, it has become the highlight of my afternoon routine, when I go down to their field and feed them.
As pigs go, these one are somewhat spoilt. They have acres of land on which to forage, a pond with ducks and geese for neighbours, and me turning up late afternoon with buckets of feed.
All it would seem is not enough for one of them. She escapes daily, and makes her way up to the farm complex, but not quiet all the way. Just enough to monitor the man who feeds them and whether he is on his way or not.
The first time I shouted at her, called her a bad girl, and she trotted off back home. The second time, she came right up to the buckets of feed on the cart, clearly bolder in her approach. Yesterday, she played on being my new best friend, and began helping herself to the feed in the buckets.
It was then I remembered how ‘Hope’ the Maremma had addressed the wayward sow the first week I was here. Clearing my throat, and taking a deep breath, I leant down and proceeded to replicate the farm dogs bark. The result was hysterical. She bolted back to the pen so fast I’m sure her trotters didn’t touch the ground.
So the moral of the story is this. Why have a dog when you can bark yourself!
That’s been my week in a nutshell, apart from one other highlight involving a book review. Following the wonderful Amazon review Swati Tanu did on The Dumb Dumb’s Handbook To Twin Flame Relationships, I have another kind lady reviewing my book.
Having approached my favourite tarot card reader on You Tube, Kali Tarot, she has very graciously agreed to review my work as well. I would like to publicly thank her in advance for her support.
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyHw6...
Link - https://tinyurl.com/4ryvbjfh
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors, Happy Friday!
As we all await the weekend, the weather here in Cornwall has made an effort to impress us thankfully with blue skies and sunshine. I hope your day has been blessed with the same, wherever you are in the world.
This week has flown by, punctuated with the daily chores here on the farm, which seems to make the days shorter somehow. The rhythm on the farm is one of constant routine for me, with the animals being the greatest responsibility. Their welfare starts each morning with feeding the two farm cats, checking on the goats, and monitoring the pigs and their security, which I will come back to later.
By the time the water system has been fired up before the sun clears the trees, and the vegetable garden has been addressed, it’s time to wander down to the lower paddock. I go and say good morning to ‘Sunny’ the resident shire horse, and check in on him.
Animals never cease to amaze me with their intelligence, and in particular, their ability to learn routines. Each afternoon I take a ten gallon water container down to his trough at around three fifteen. The first day I did this, I gave him a biscuit. Well, ‘Hope’ the Maremma farm dog is away with her owner, so I didn’t want them going to waste.
By day three, ‘Sunny’ was waiting patently at his trough at three fifteen for his afternoon treat.
I referred at the start of this article, about the pigs and their security. Well, I have had something of an issue on this front, but nothing serious. In fact, it has become the highlight of my afternoon routine, when I go down to their field and feed them.
As pigs go, these one are somewhat spoilt. They have acres of land on which to forage, a pond with ducks and geese for neighbours, and me turning up late afternoon with buckets of feed.
All it would seem is not enough for one of them. She escapes daily, and makes her way up to the farm complex, but not quiet all the way. Just enough to monitor the man who feeds them and whether he is on his way or not.
The first time I shouted at her, called her a bad girl, and she trotted off back home. The second time, she came right up to the buckets of feed on the cart, clearly bolder in her approach. Yesterday, she played on being my new best friend, and began helping herself to the feed in the buckets.
It was then I remembered how ‘Hope’ the Maremma had addressed the wayward sow the first week I was here. Clearing my throat, and taking a deep breath, I leant down and proceeded to replicate the farm dogs bark. The result was hysterical. She bolted back to the pen so fast I’m sure her trotters didn’t touch the ground.
So the moral of the story is this. Why have a dog when you can bark yourself!
That’s been my week in a nutshell, apart from one other highlight involving a book review. Following the wonderful Amazon review Swati Tanu did on The Dumb Dumb’s Handbook To Twin Flame Relationships, I have another kind lady reviewing my book.
Having approached my favourite tarot card reader on You Tube, Kali Tarot, she has very graciously agreed to review my work as well. I would like to publicly thank her in advance for her support.
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyHw6...
Link - https://tinyurl.com/4ryvbjfh
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
June 28, 2025
'Animal Farm'
Good Morning,
Fellow Readers and Authors,
Happy weekend!
Another Saturday is with us again, and the weather here in Cornwall is rather disappointing I have to say. That steady drizzle arrived early Friday evening, and it appears to have settled in for the rest of today at least.
Trawling through my phone and social media over coffee, I was delighted to find another review for the Dumb Dumb’s Handbook To Twin Flame Relationships. Even more so, to find the book was on the first page at number four on my Amazon.com search.
Placements on any platform depend of course on the key words you type in on your search. ‘Twin Flame Relationships’ certainly seems to have done the trick on this occasion. I will place a link on this page for those of you who are interested in reading the latest review.
In the meantime, back to ‘farm sitting’, and the reason I am here in Cornwall and not Scotland at the moment. The journey from Dorset to St Austell last Monday was thankfully without issue. The weather was top notch, and the roads were generally clear on the one hundred and forty five mile journey.
I met the owner, and very soon we were on a guided tour of the thirty five acre farm. ‘Sunny’ the Shire horse introduced himself along with ‘Hope’ the owners Maremma dog, and we walked the land to give me an orientation on my new home for the next month.
There was a lot to take on board, what with the animals daily feed requirements, the solar power system, generator, water supplies, the allotment that needs watering etc, etc. It soon became apparent my days here would be keeping me busy that was guaranteed. But hey Ho! It held the promise of a new life experience, and one I would happily embrace.
By Friday afternoon, I had repaired the Kubota mower, cut a fair amount of the grass, and was generally settling into the rhythm of the farm rather well. ‘Hope’ had become my new ‘best friend’ with early morning prompts outside of Vera2, and had eaten most of my stock of biscuits.
It was as the pigs were being feed yesterday evening, the title of this article came to me. I was immersing myself it seemed, in yet another literary moment with one the works of my favourite author George Orwell.
Whilst there were only sow’s on the farm, I am certain one of them would easily have taken ‘Napoleons’ role in running the farm if given the chance. We will wait and see, there is another month to go afterall.
Amazon Link - https://a.co/d/9iez1TX
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors,
Happy weekend!
Another Saturday is with us again, and the weather here in Cornwall is rather disappointing I have to say. That steady drizzle arrived early Friday evening, and it appears to have settled in for the rest of today at least.
Trawling through my phone and social media over coffee, I was delighted to find another review for the Dumb Dumb’s Handbook To Twin Flame Relationships. Even more so, to find the book was on the first page at number four on my Amazon.com search.
Placements on any platform depend of course on the key words you type in on your search. ‘Twin Flame Relationships’ certainly seems to have done the trick on this occasion. I will place a link on this page for those of you who are interested in reading the latest review.
In the meantime, back to ‘farm sitting’, and the reason I am here in Cornwall and not Scotland at the moment. The journey from Dorset to St Austell last Monday was thankfully without issue. The weather was top notch, and the roads were generally clear on the one hundred and forty five mile journey.
I met the owner, and very soon we were on a guided tour of the thirty five acre farm. ‘Sunny’ the Shire horse introduced himself along with ‘Hope’ the owners Maremma dog, and we walked the land to give me an orientation on my new home for the next month.
There was a lot to take on board, what with the animals daily feed requirements, the solar power system, generator, water supplies, the allotment that needs watering etc, etc. It soon became apparent my days here would be keeping me busy that was guaranteed. But hey Ho! It held the promise of a new life experience, and one I would happily embrace.
By Friday afternoon, I had repaired the Kubota mower, cut a fair amount of the grass, and was generally settling into the rhythm of the farm rather well. ‘Hope’ had become my new ‘best friend’ with early morning prompts outside of Vera2, and had eaten most of my stock of biscuits.
It was as the pigs were being feed yesterday evening, the title of this article came to me. I was immersing myself it seemed, in yet another literary moment with one the works of my favourite author George Orwell.
Whilst there were only sow’s on the farm, I am certain one of them would easily have taken ‘Napoleons’ role in running the farm if given the chance. We will wait and see, there is another month to go afterall.
Amazon Link - https://a.co/d/9iez1TX
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
June 22, 2025
‘Boosted or Bypassed?'
Good Afternoon,
Fellow Authors and Readers,
I am currently sipping my tea, and reflecting on another week of digital creation, literary adventures, and roadside wanderings with Vera2.
My thoughts have turned once again to a group of ‘unsung heroes’ in the world of Indie author’s, those being the Book Promoters. Their future in the age of AI’.
From Facebook groups to Instagram reels, these folks have worked tirelessly behind the digital curtain, amplifying voices, raising visibility, and helping authors get their stories in front of the right readers.
But as Artificial Intelligence continues to weave its ever-growing net into the fabric of modern life, a question arises. Where will the book promoters stand in this rapidly changing landscape in a year or two from now?
The Human Touch in a Machine-Driven World
AI-driven advertising platforms like Meta's Ad Manager, Google Smart Campaigns, and BookBub are just a few examples. They are already doing the heavy lifting when it comes to targeting, retargeting, and ad optimization. They can learn, adapt, and execute campaigns at a scale with frightening efficiency, and accuracy.
Unlike a Book Promoter, an AI program never sleeps, it doesn’t get distracted, and it tests and tunes a thousand variations in the time it takes us to make a cup of coffee.
And yet some of you, probably the promoters, think that there remains something deeply personal about the work of a good Book Promoter. They know the pulse of a reading community. They sense when a new release should be shouted from the digital rooftops or when it’s better to let word-of-mouth do the talking. They engage, they encourage, and they create space for stories to be discovered not just sold.
Personally, having penned the paragraph above, I can honestly say it is not my personal ethos. Far from it. My path has been difficult as has other fellow authors. However, I have taken the time to adapt whilst the market has slowly changed over the past few years.
Learning SEO skills, and mastering AI programs for my own designs and advertising. Also, realising some of the big names in the industry can help box your corner better than a single promoter, no matter how much they promise.
AI and the Great Shift
Looking three to four years ahead, I see a world where the technical aspects of book promotion will be handled almost entirely by AI.
Algorithms will select the best ad creative, write compelling taglines, segment audiences, and adjust spending in real time. And all of this without any human oversight.
Does this mean the extinction of the human promoter? Well, it could mean their evolution.
Just as we have adapted to Facebook, and then Instagram, and then TikTok, the role of promoters will shift from ‘operator’ to ‘strategist’.
The most successful among them will become brand curators and community builders, using AI tools not as competition, but as collaborators. They’ll free themselves from spreadsheets, and focus instead on crafting meaningful narratives, positioning authors for long-term growth, and fostering loyal readerships.
The New Frontier
Already I see glimpses of this in my own world. The Facebook groups where I interact are evolving. The conversations are more curated. The promotional posts are smarter. And many of the people behind them are already using automation and analytics to fine-tune their work.
AI may draft your ad copy or choose your audience, but a savvy promoter will still be the one to set the tone. They’ll know when it’s time for a personal video, or a heartfelt thank you, or a story about a cheeky Robin and a winter’s storm in the New Forest, the kind of posts that connect.
Because in the end, readers don’t fall in love with algorithms. They fall in love with people. With storytellers. With promoters who still believe in the magic of the written word.
So here's to the next chapter in the evolution of the literary species, and to those who will ride its wave, and not be swept away by it.
Link – https://tinyurl.com/uw9tv32a
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Authors and Readers,
I am currently sipping my tea, and reflecting on another week of digital creation, literary adventures, and roadside wanderings with Vera2.
My thoughts have turned once again to a group of ‘unsung heroes’ in the world of Indie author’s, those being the Book Promoters. Their future in the age of AI’.
From Facebook groups to Instagram reels, these folks have worked tirelessly behind the digital curtain, amplifying voices, raising visibility, and helping authors get their stories in front of the right readers.
But as Artificial Intelligence continues to weave its ever-growing net into the fabric of modern life, a question arises. Where will the book promoters stand in this rapidly changing landscape in a year or two from now?
The Human Touch in a Machine-Driven World
AI-driven advertising platforms like Meta's Ad Manager, Google Smart Campaigns, and BookBub are just a few examples. They are already doing the heavy lifting when it comes to targeting, retargeting, and ad optimization. They can learn, adapt, and execute campaigns at a scale with frightening efficiency, and accuracy.
Unlike a Book Promoter, an AI program never sleeps, it doesn’t get distracted, and it tests and tunes a thousand variations in the time it takes us to make a cup of coffee.
And yet some of you, probably the promoters, think that there remains something deeply personal about the work of a good Book Promoter. They know the pulse of a reading community. They sense when a new release should be shouted from the digital rooftops or when it’s better to let word-of-mouth do the talking. They engage, they encourage, and they create space for stories to be discovered not just sold.
Personally, having penned the paragraph above, I can honestly say it is not my personal ethos. Far from it. My path has been difficult as has other fellow authors. However, I have taken the time to adapt whilst the market has slowly changed over the past few years.
Learning SEO skills, and mastering AI programs for my own designs and advertising. Also, realising some of the big names in the industry can help box your corner better than a single promoter, no matter how much they promise.
AI and the Great Shift
Looking three to four years ahead, I see a world where the technical aspects of book promotion will be handled almost entirely by AI.
Algorithms will select the best ad creative, write compelling taglines, segment audiences, and adjust spending in real time. And all of this without any human oversight.
Does this mean the extinction of the human promoter? Well, it could mean their evolution.
Just as we have adapted to Facebook, and then Instagram, and then TikTok, the role of promoters will shift from ‘operator’ to ‘strategist’.
The most successful among them will become brand curators and community builders, using AI tools not as competition, but as collaborators. They’ll free themselves from spreadsheets, and focus instead on crafting meaningful narratives, positioning authors for long-term growth, and fostering loyal readerships.
The New Frontier
Already I see glimpses of this in my own world. The Facebook groups where I interact are evolving. The conversations are more curated. The promotional posts are smarter. And many of the people behind them are already using automation and analytics to fine-tune their work.
AI may draft your ad copy or choose your audience, but a savvy promoter will still be the one to set the tone. They’ll know when it’s time for a personal video, or a heartfelt thank you, or a story about a cheeky Robin and a winter’s storm in the New Forest, the kind of posts that connect.
Because in the end, readers don’t fall in love with algorithms. They fall in love with people. With storytellers. With promoters who still believe in the magic of the written word.
So here's to the next chapter in the evolution of the literary species, and to those who will ride its wave, and not be swept away by it.
Link – https://tinyurl.com/uw9tv32a
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
June 20, 2025
'Heaven Can Wait'
Good Afternoon,
Fellow Readers and Authors,
Well guess what? It’s Friday again, and the weekend has already started here in Dorset. As always, I hope all of you had a great week wherever you are in this world.
Last weekend with my son and grandson, and Sundays father’s day outing, had been truly wonderful. With a walk around a Sussex country park, followed by a nice lunch together, the weather certainly blessed our excursion.
The following day, and as per our plan for a trip to Scotland, Vera2 and I left Sussex, and headed West to Hampshire. I had arranged to say goodbye to friends in the New Forest, and a stopover for a few days.
Sadly, it was as I parked up, I noticed the diesel leak from the two tanks that supply the diesel heater in the rear garage area. Fortunately, I caught it in time, and there was no damage just the inconvenience of washing the area down, and getting rid of the smell of fossil fuel.
It was late, and darkness was setting in before the task was completed, and the thought of dinner was just that, as it was far too late to cook at that time of night. Making do with a hearty Red Leicester cheese sandwich, with lashing of Branston pickle, dinner never tasted so good.
Tuesday came, and the last of the prep work was completed by the evening, and after a proper meal this time, Vera and I were set to conquer Everest!
Our friends departed the following day, heading back to the midlands, and the site slowly emptied out as others followed suit. So with nothing better to do, I set up an easy chair, and had an afternoon nap.
The following morning we set off to Dorset and Jezz and Heidi’s farm, as I had promised to drop off a book before heading north. It was then I lived out that ‘curve ball’ moment once again, as I have so many times before in my life. I am sure there are those amongst you who know exactly what I mean.
During the course of the phone conversation, my aspirations for Scotland didn’t evaporate completely, they were slightly extended by a day or two. Well, five weeks actually. The caller had got my number from an advert, where I had offered up an few hours a week of my time, for a free pitch on a farm.
There is here in the UK, a huge network of travellers who do this throughout the year. Working on farms and small holdings for a few hours a week in exchange for a haven to park up in. Friends of mine had suggested this an economical way of travelling while I write. It also offers the opportunity to meet fellow writers and artists along the way.
Later Thursday afternoon, we arrived at the farm. The plan for the weekend remained the same, however on Monday morning we were now heading west now to Cornwall, and not north to Scotland.
I did have to laugh to myself though, as I thought of Joe Pendleton (Heaven Can Wait). My dream would still be there, and my trip to Scotland would happen. It would just have to wait a while. But that’s life, and the curve ball’s it can deliver.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/52stw8ty
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
Fellow Readers and Authors,
Well guess what? It’s Friday again, and the weekend has already started here in Dorset. As always, I hope all of you had a great week wherever you are in this world.
Last weekend with my son and grandson, and Sundays father’s day outing, had been truly wonderful. With a walk around a Sussex country park, followed by a nice lunch together, the weather certainly blessed our excursion.
The following day, and as per our plan for a trip to Scotland, Vera2 and I left Sussex, and headed West to Hampshire. I had arranged to say goodbye to friends in the New Forest, and a stopover for a few days.
Sadly, it was as I parked up, I noticed the diesel leak from the two tanks that supply the diesel heater in the rear garage area. Fortunately, I caught it in time, and there was no damage just the inconvenience of washing the area down, and getting rid of the smell of fossil fuel.
It was late, and darkness was setting in before the task was completed, and the thought of dinner was just that, as it was far too late to cook at that time of night. Making do with a hearty Red Leicester cheese sandwich, with lashing of Branston pickle, dinner never tasted so good.
Tuesday came, and the last of the prep work was completed by the evening, and after a proper meal this time, Vera and I were set to conquer Everest!
Our friends departed the following day, heading back to the midlands, and the site slowly emptied out as others followed suit. So with nothing better to do, I set up an easy chair, and had an afternoon nap.
The following morning we set off to Dorset and Jezz and Heidi’s farm, as I had promised to drop off a book before heading north. It was then I lived out that ‘curve ball’ moment once again, as I have so many times before in my life. I am sure there are those amongst you who know exactly what I mean.
During the course of the phone conversation, my aspirations for Scotland didn’t evaporate completely, they were slightly extended by a day or two. Well, five weeks actually. The caller had got my number from an advert, where I had offered up an few hours a week of my time, for a free pitch on a farm.
There is here in the UK, a huge network of travellers who do this throughout the year. Working on farms and small holdings for a few hours a week in exchange for a haven to park up in. Friends of mine had suggested this an economical way of travelling while I write. It also offers the opportunity to meet fellow writers and artists along the way.
Later Thursday afternoon, we arrived at the farm. The plan for the weekend remained the same, however on Monday morning we were now heading west now to Cornwall, and not north to Scotland.
I did have to laugh to myself though, as I thought of Joe Pendleton (Heaven Can Wait). My dream would still be there, and my trip to Scotland would happen. It would just have to wait a while. But that’s life, and the curve ball’s it can deliver.
Link - https://tinyurl.com/52stw8ty
In the meantime, I would like to thank you as always for your support with all of my novels, it is sincerely appreciated.
Stay safe, and keep reading and writing, and most of all, follow your dreams whatever they may be. 😊
Best Wishes
AR
