Christmas has been and gone and it was lovely to be home again with my small family (Mum and Dad). As a result of the festivities I've been away from this blog but I haven't been idle. And neither have you it seems!

Below are the latest patrons of my novel, A Murder Of Crows:

Nikki Jay

Kathryn Stevenson

Mark Campbell

Martin Frame

Stacey Woods

Thank you all for your contributions. It was very kind of you and is much appreciated. My novel is now 14% funded and pretty much on schedule. Mark and Nikki both blew me away with their generosity and it was amazing as always to have people I do not know taking an interest, so thank you to Stacey and Kathryn too.

And then there was Martin Frame.

His daughter Kate is an old friend of mine but I was particularly touched when she told me of how her mother actually read the sample chapter out loud to her entire family at home and it was after this that Martin decided to pledge for my book. It's an amazing feeling to know that one's work is being appreciated and that it begins to have a life of its own that one would not be aware of if it wasn't for the feedback of friends - and that is a Christmas present that money can't buy!

And so feedback is important to me so please ask me any questions you like and I will strive to answer them. If there are any problems in doing this let me know.

As I said before I haven't been idle. I've approached a couple pf places with the view to doing a reading from my novel - I will announce where and when in due course. I have also recorded a second video - this time previewing a new chapter from my book...

In the meantime, a belated 'Merry Christmas' and have a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

Best Wishes,

Ian Skewis.