There is something deliciously dangerous about dressing up. Perhaps it is the mask. Perhaps it is the stockings, the boots, the cape, the wig, the corset, the uniform, the leather gloves, or simply the fact that for one evening you are not quite yourself. Halloween gives us the perfect excuse. For one night, nobody questions the vampire at the bar, the witch in the supermarket, the superhero ordering a taxi or the woman in thigh-high boots who has suddenly developed a very co

Halloween belongs to horror writers. Or at least, that is what we are supposed to think. Mention writing a story set around Halloween and most people immediately imagine ghosts, haunted houses, serial killers, graveyards, vampires, things scratching at bedroom windows and somebody making the incredibly poor decision to investigate a strange noise in the cellar. And yes, Halloween is wonderful for horror. But I think writers of almost every genre should steal it. Because Hallo

Well, we did it! On Saturday, 1st August, Coffee Shop Chronicles officially had its book launch at Coldside Library in Dundee, and although I couldn’t be there in person, modern technology came to the rescue and allowed me to join everyone through Microsoft Teams. There was, however, one tiny drawback to attending a book launch taking place on the other side of the world — the alarm clock! While everyone in Dundee was gathering at the perfectly civilised time of 11:30 in the

People often imagine that stories begin with a flash of inspiration—a bolt of lightning that suddenly reveals an entire novel from beginning to end. I wish it were that simple. Coffee Shop Chronicles started a long time ago in my telling and sharing fantasies and love stories. The concept began with a feeling; it needed a setting. Like so many people, I’ve always loved independent coffee shops. They’re places where time seems to slow down just enough for people to become them

People often ask me where the stories in Coffee Shop Chronicles come from. A lot are from fantasies I would share, some being made up on the spot, that would amaze people and then they would ask but how can you sort of pluck them out of mid-air? The truthful answer to that is… they begin with people rather than plots. A smile across a café. A lonely, stranger walking through the door. Two people sharing the last slice of cake while raindrops tap gently against the windows. Th

Hey you guys, My heart has been fluttering for weeks, and now I can finally say it out loud: June 1st is the day After Dark: 50 Erotic Poems, Volume One steps into the world. And here’s what makes that date even more magical — it’s also my birthday. There’s something beautifully poetic about releasing a collection of sensual, intimate verses on the very day I celebrate another trip around the sun. It feels like the perfect alignment of personal joy and creative surrender. T

Hey you guys, The nights have grown longer lately, and I’ve been spending them curled up with the final proofs of my new collection, After Dark: 50 Erotic Poems, Volume One. There’s something deliciously intimate about seeing your words bound between covers—especially when those words are meant to be whispered, gasped, or moaned after the lights go out. One of the great joys (and occasional challenges) of writing erotica is choosing the right language to capture heat, vulne

There’s something about poetry that has always felt like home to me. Long before I ever thought about publishing, before covers and blurbs and reader expectations, there were just words—quiet, private, and entirely mine. Poetry was where I went to feel, to explore, to understand the things that didn’t always make sense when spoken out loud. It was never about perfection. It was about truth. I’ve written poetry all my life. Not always consistently, not always with purpose—bu

Writing is often seen as a solitary endeavor, but behind every successful author lies a rich tapestry of experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Diane Marie, a passionate writer with a unique voice, invites readers to join her on a journey through her writing process. This blog post will explore the various stages of her writing journey, the lessons learned, and the inspiration that fuels her creativity. The Spark of Inspiration Every writer has a moment that ignites their pas

Writing a book can feel like an insurmountable challenge, especially for those just starting their journey as authors. Diane Marie, a seasoned writer with years of experience, has shared invaluable insights that can help aspiring authors navigate the complexities of the writing process. In this blog post, we will explore her top tips, offering practical advice and encouragement to help you succeed in your writing endeavors. Embrace Your Unique Voice Every author has a distinc