My second sci-fi novel Exiles, the sequel to Rebels, goes on sale today. Set four years after the events portrayed in Rebels Ford and his crew find themselves about to embark on their most dangerous mission yet.
Betrayed by the Federation of Free Planets they are forced to steal a ship and flee the world they liberated. Set adrift in a dark and dangerous universe full of conflict and intrigue they must win new allies if they are to survive. Old alliances and certainties are crumbling. The once mighty Malstrom corporation is in retreat as it rivals seek to claim dominance over human space. The quasi-religious cult the Brethren offers salvation for those deemed credit worthy, while Raiders prey on the those seeking refuge from the chaos. They must confront the shocking truth behind the 'Meat Run' and deal with arch nemesis Jasper. But nothing is as it seems, even AI's have hidden agendas and everything including freedom comes with a price.
I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
I'm planning to have my next novel I'm currently working on 'The Beast' ready for Christmas after which I'll be returning to the Ark Worlds series to begin work in earnest on the next installment 'Reunions'.
However the launch that's stolen all the headlines this week, at least locally, is the Sandwell Three Peaks Challenge, with an official reception to launch Sandwell Womens Aid latest initiative and the Three Peaks Challenge. It's not every day you get to have your photograph taken with the Mayor. Who incidentally has promised to drive to the foot of Snowdon on Sunday afternoon after his official engagements for the day to buy us all a celebratory drink for completing it. The pressure of all the hype surrounding the challenge has proved too much for one team member who looks set to withdraw. Personally for me have listened to some moving case studies I'm more determined than ever to complete the challenge.
Sandwell Womens Aid is an amazing group who for the last 25 years have provided a refuge for the victims of physical and sexual abuse, rape and human trafficking and turned around countless lives in the process. They have constantly reinvented themselves to deal with an ever changing political landscape and funding cuts. Their offices are furnished entirely with recycled equipment that would have otherwise gone in a skip yet still manage to look warm, friendly and inviting. So I know every penny we raise will be put to good use.
There latest project, The Mariposa project, is aimed at the working with women referred via the Probation Service, because research has shown that many female offenders are in fact the victims of unreported abuse. The project is already helping people turn their lives around and has resulted in at least one individual who would have otherwise escaped justice being taken into custody pending charges. So please take a moment to visit the teams page and make a donation if you can. With the promise of some sizable off-line donations were confident we'll smash our £1,000 fund raising goal, but the more money we can raise for this worthwhile cause the better.