It's still all go with 'Man. Made.' front and centre of my attention at the moment! I was excited to get the manuscript back from Richard and he hasn't disappointed. The work he's put in and what I've added to since, has really pushed the book forward in a few short days. There is still more to do, I can already see how the latest amendments and additions will result in some big improvements to the texture of the story.

There will definitely be a couple of areas that'll go in a different direction to how I originally saw them, but that's one of the great things about writing and having such a competent team around me.

A good idea is a good idea regardless of where it comes from. Of course it's still all my writing and I do get to have the final say as to what words appear on each page. I might have an idea of a release date for 'Man. Made.' by the time of the next newsletter is published, so do look out for that - more updates to come in 2023!

Giveaway up for grabs!

I've got a polite request for those of you who've read one or more of my books. Please consider leaving a short review or comment on my Ian Austin Author Facebook page. All you need to do is hit the 'Reviews' button under the page title to leave a brief note.

You've all been so supportive of my writing career, but reviews go so far in spreading the word. I desperately need more to boost my writing profile to people who rely on other's recommendations before they buy.

As an extra incentive, I'll pick a reviewer on Christmas Eve to send a book of their choice to, including one of the first copies of 'Man. Made.' if that's what they prefer.

On a personal note...

Christmas is just around the corner and for us it will be business as usual, with a yoga class first thing on Christmas morning! The studio I work and practice at has a tradition of a class for those who need a bit of a chill before the big day's festivities. We'll then travel up to Auckland to spend the rest of the day with family. I'm on Christmas pudding and rum butter duty as always. The pudding was made months ago and has been maturing since to be ready for the big day. 

There's no summer holiday as such this year, but hopefully I'll play some golf in and amongst the 'Man. Made.' and yoga work.

When I was in the Police I always enjoyed working over the period as much as I did the years when I had time off - people were mostly appreciative of our service. I do remember one year when I accepted so many offers of mince pies I could hardly manage my own dinner when I got home!

It's been a big year for me aside from 'Man.Made.' A new grandson in April and also getting signed up for the clinical trial that might give some cause for future optimism regarding my brain illness. Happiness at home too, along with improved physical health.

So all in all we can call 2022 a good year!

Have a great and happy Christmas and New Year. Love and best wishes,

Ian

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