Elizabeth Hopkinson's Hidden Grove

Recently, I signed up to receive the first of the Gray Fox Epistles from Sylvia V Linstead, a writer from California.  If you have the money to try this, I thoroughly recommend it.  Every month, Sylvia retells a classic folktale in the context of her native California (March was the Children of Lir and April will be Tsarevna Frog).  She then posts them out to her subscribers, along with beautiful artwork, craft and pieces of nature.  I was especially happy to receive needles of a Redwood tree - not something I am ever likely to see in Yorkshire.  Have a look at Sylvia's blog if you would like to know more.  You can even see behind-the-scenes pictures of how she puts it all together. Actually, I think handcrafts and writing make wonderful partners.  That's why I will be having the launch for my novel, Silver Hands at the wonderful Hand Made in Bradford , which celebrates its first anniversary today.  This has been a wonderful initiative for my...

A ship's surgeon with a taste for adventure Born: Nottinghamshire, around 1670.  Presently around 37 years of age. Family: a wife and and several children. Occupation: ship's surgeon. Skills: is a skilled and modern physician, not just a simple surgeon.  Also has the ability to take charge of a ship, if needs be.  Skilled in languages, observational drawing, and the rigorous application of logic. Interests: Dr Lemuel is a man of science and learning, who keeps detailed records of his journeys and discoveries.  He collects curiosities, some of which are very unusual indeed!  There is an air of mystery about him and his voyages, which seem fated to take him in strange directions. An enigmatic figure, Dr Lemuel is nevertheless kind and fair, and very much respected by his fellow sailors.  He acts as a mentor figure towards Margaret when she is in need. Silver Hands - coming 26th April 2013 from Top Hat Books