Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who has shown interest in and/or bought a copy of my new novel, In the Shadow of Marc Bolan. The book was published following a ‘tentative' soft launch on 12 July. Its publication is something I am very proud of and I'm relieved to say that early feedback suggests the storyline has caught the imagination of many discerning Marc Bolan/T.Rex fans. I've also been staggered by the number of people who weren't even born while Marc was enjoying his heyday who said they have read and really liked the book.
Just before publication, to help spread the word about the book, I engaged with people I considered to be Bolan aficionados, and I’m pleased to say I’ve had some great interactions with all of them.
Indeed, Barry Smith-Hills, who steers the group looking after the Marc Bolan Memorial Bench at Golders Green Crematorium, Fee Warner of the T.Rex Action Group (TAG), who maintains Marc’s shrine in Barnes South West London, and Danielz of the official tribute band, T.Rextasy, have all taken a healthy interest in the book itself. Thanks also to Steve Moriarty and Tony Parrish, whose moral support has been phenomenal. (Please excuse the name drops!)
Barry recently informed me that the bench at Golder’s Green is known to deteriorate due to weather conditions and constantly needs attention and regular maintenance. It is definitely not neglected, as my book’s main character, Marc Abela, might lead some to believe.
In pristine condition - The memorial bench at Golders Green Crematorium.
I have visited the bench a couple of times to pay my respects and did the same at Marc’s shrine at Barnes back in June. They were very poignant and spiritual visits. Each time, it felt like Marc was watching over me, hence the inspiration for a couple of storylines in the book. Note: Donations for the upkeep of the bench, and the shrine at Barnes are always welcome!
A definition of fiction...
Since my first novel, The Asylum Soul, was published in 2015, I have often been amazed by how many people appear unaware of the difference between fiction and nonfiction.
My understanding of fiction is that it is created from the imagination and, perhaps, except for dates and locations, is not presented as fact. Fiction can be inspired by or based on a true story or situation, but it is ultimately made up. In other words, ‘contrived’. The purpose of fiction is to entertain and inspire readers by introducing them to the imaginary world(s) of an author’s character(s).
All that said, novelists, myself included, often use a piece of fact to trigger the fiction which may create the so-called grey area that has the potential to confuse some readers.
Fee Warner of TAG enjoying her review copy
Profit, what profit?
Some people have asked me how many books have sold. Mm…interesting. Writing is my hobby. I’m an independent author. It costs around £1k to get each title out there, so obviously, I’m not in the story-writing game for the money. With a royalty of only a small percentage of the retail cost of each book, breaking even with any of my titles is simply a welcome bonus.
Reviews & Ratings...
Lastly, In the Shadow of Marc Bolan has received some great early reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and elsewhere, including on my social media and via email. If you have enjoyed the book, please leave a positive review/rating on Amazon. These are priceless to authors like me; as they say, ‘every little helps’.
Is it time to Boogie? - Well, probably not just yet!
*KALMIYH*
Buy paperback or ebook from Amazon
*Signed copies are now available at just £9.99 inc p&p direct from the author.
Please email malfoster1956@gmail.com with delivery address for PayPal Link
All good things!
Mal
