The Hardback Debate Misses the Point
A row in the Guardian this week saw journalist Larry Ryan calling for the death of the hardback, and his readers responding with the kind of fierce defence usually reserved for the monarchy. As a publisher who produces hardbacks regularly, I think both sides are missing the point, and the more interesting question is the one nobody is asking.
World Book Week - Why Books Still Matter More Than Ever
World Book Week is a reminder that books still carry cultural and intellectual weight in a world increasingly shaped by fast, disposable content. Whether developing a child’s imagination or strengthening an adult’s authority, reading remains one of the most powerful tools we have for shaping thought, confidence and influence.
FEBRUARY 17TH - MORE THAN PANCAKE DAY
17 February 2026 brings a rare convergence of the Fire Horse Lunar New Year, a solar eclipse, and powerful spiritual observances, all symbolising renewal, clarity, and forward momentum. In business, moments like this reflect the point where identity, timing, and leadership align, creating the conditions for decisive growth and lasting authority.
What Actually Happens After You Finish Writing a Book
Finishing a manuscript is a major milestone, and it marks the point where publishing decisions begin to matter most. This stage shapes how a book communicates, holds its position, and reaches the readers it was written for.
When “Improvements” Make Things Worse
When big tech says it is making things better, it rarely asks who those changes are really for. Too often, publishers and creators discover the consequences only after control over their own work has already been taken away.
What Does Your Book Do?
Fifteen years in publishing has taught me how to recognise a book that truly carries weight, and how to shape it so it speaks for its author long before they ever enter the room. For busy people, a well-made book becomes a quiet but powerful business ally, representing who you are, how you think, and why working with you makes sense.
Why I Will Always Champion Independent Publishing
Most people still think publishing is a choice between control or credibility, but that is no longer true. Independent publishing now offers a balanced, sustainable alternative that puts authors first.
What Writing for Other People Has Taught Me About Ambition
What does ambition mean to you? Years of ghostwriting has shown me what it means to others and impacted my business growth.
Publishing Trends for 2026
Publishing isn’t reinventing itself, but the foundations are shifting in ways that matter. From cautious AI adoption to smarter data use and tighter author services, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of steady, practical change rather than dramatic reinvention.
The Three Biggest Mistakes Successful People Make When Planning a Book
Many successful people assume their expertise or life story is enough to carry a book, but readers only buy what gives them value. Knowing what makes your book different is the first step to creating something that stands out.
November’s Novel Moment: Celebrating Stories Big, Bold and Published
November isn’t only about word counts and writing challenges. It’s a time to celebrate powerful fiction, stories that challenge, provoke, and remind us what it means to be human.
Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone (and Back Into My Creative Head)
Stepping away from running my businesses to focus solely on writing was something I had never done before, but it reminded me why I fell in love with storytelling in the first place. Sometimes the best way to move forward is to step away for a while and let creativity take the lead.
Responsibility, Results, and the Myth of “Not Enough”
True success comes from doing the work with integrity and trusting the process to unfold in its own time. Every project is a collaboration between effort, timing, and the willingness to let the result take shape naturally.
Working on a Bank Holiday: When 27 Degrees Doesn’t Mean a Day Off
On a 27-degree Bank Holiday, most people are in the garden with a drink in hand, but for the self-employed, the laptop usually wins. Freedom looks different when taking the day off means losing a day’s income.
The Rise of the Loud Generation
Gen X was once called the “forgotten generation,” but we’re done being quiet. From building businesses to taking over TikTok, midlife has become our catalyst, not our crisis.
What Comes After ‘Doing It All’? Whatever I Choose.
After years of juggling roles, I'm stepping back from the university to focus on what I’ve built, businesses that are growing, clients that excite me, and a life that’s mine on my terms. I’m still doing it all, just on my own clock.
Social Media Didn’t Kill Reading - It Made It Go Viral
Social media didn’t kill reading, it made it contagious. TikTok drives book sales in seconds, LinkedIn fuels business book buzz, and Substack is where the real conversations happen for those who want depth, not just dopamine.