There are moments in a writer’s life that feel almost impossible to believe, and this is one of them.

Today marks exactly one month until the publication of my second novel, Letters in Suitcases Abandoned, which will be released on 16 October in both paperback and ebook formats.

Writing a second novel is a different experience from writing a first. You have a better understanding of the journey ahead, but there are still plenty of surprises along the way. Every story develops a life of its own, and this one certainly did. What began as a simple idea slowly unfolded into a tale of mystery, discovery, and the unexpected connections that shape our lives.

As launch day draws nearer, I find myself feeling both excited and nervous. For many months, these characters and their world have been my constant companions. Soon they will belong to readers, and that is the most rewarding part of being a writer.

To celebrate reaching the one-month countdown, I wanted to share a short preview from the novel.

A Sneak Peek from Letters in Suitcases Abandoned

I hurried back home as fast as I dared, determined to return before the radio programme ended.

How I longed for a pair of shoes that didn’t click and squeak with each step!

The radio droned on. I looked emptily at Mother, whom I had decided was the only thing keeping me from going outside.

Suddenly, I stumbled on an unseen object and tumbled to the pavement.

I examined my arms and legs. No bruises or cuts.

I glanced around to see where I had fallen and noticed something lying in the middle of the narrow street. It was a book, well wrapped in oiled paper.

In my rush, I had tripped over it.

I assumed someone must have dropped it.

My curiosity got the better of me, and I picked it up, opening the paper and flipping to the front.

A stamp marked tomorrow’s date, and the name “The Antiquarian” suggested it belonged to a bookshop, not a library.

That struck me as peculiar, yet the deadline was clear: return it by morning.

I straightened, held the book tight against my chest, and hurried home.

Between the pages, something fluttered loose. A note, folded with care.

71 Laurel Canal.

I recognised that street. It was just a ten-minute walk away, nestled in the Jordan Quarter’s quiet lanes.

The Countdown Begins

The next four weeks will be filled with final preparations, launch plans, and, no doubt, plenty of anticipation.

Thank you to everyone who has supported my writing journey so far. Whether you have read my first novel, followed my website, or simply encouraged me along the way, your support means more than I can say.

I look forward to sharing Letters in Suitcases Abandoned with you on 16 October.

The countdown has officially begun!