An Irish Mystery: Final Edits Before Publication & a Sneak Peek at Book 2

We’re getting so close now! The publication of my debut novel, An Irish Mystery, feels just around the corner – which is both incredibly exciting and a little nerve-wracking.

🔍 One Last Read-Through

Right now, the manuscript is with a trusted reader who’s doing a final ARC (Advance Reader Copy) read-through. After writing, editing, and re-editing it countless times myself, I knew it was time for a completely fresh pair of eyes. Hopefully, everything is looking good – though there might still be a final round of very minor tweaks.

I’ve reached that point where I just want it out in the world! I’m also itching to get practical things like the ISBN or ASIN number sorted so I can begin advertising on different platforms. I imagine my publishers are just as keen to finalise everything as I am.

📚 What Happens After Publication?

The adventure doesn’t stop once An Irish Mystery is released. Book 2 in the Newman Adventure Series is already written! It follows on from the first book but takes place mainly in the state of Virginia, USA. Don’t worry if you're new to the series – Book 2 works well as a standalone too.

Having learned so much from the final stages of An Irish Mystery (including how many small edits can creep in!), I’m taking extra care with Book 2. I’ve already begun re-reading and self-editing – I’m about 45,000 words in – trying to catch anything repetitive or unclear before it hits the proofreading stage.

🦹‍♂️ A Ruthless New Rival

While I’m keeping most of Book 2’s plot under wraps for now, I can reveal this: writing the antagonist was one of my favourite parts of the whole process. This new adversary is utterly ruthless – someone who believes what they’re after is rightfully theirs… and they’ll stop at nothing to get it.

The stakes are higher, the tension’s tighter, and the series is definitely taking a darker turn.

If you enjoy deceit, betrayal, mystery, and yes – maybe even murder? – you’ll want to stay tuned.

Thanks so much for being part of this journey with me. More updates coming very soon!