How we came to publish this one
I’ve known Karen for quite a while: ever since she was an MA student at the University of Salford where I used to be a lecturer. She has had several short stories published in our annual anthologies. She has a really distinctive writing voice. We managed to find some funding for this project so I was very pleased to be able to publish this book.
The title
‘Afterwards’ means what happens after you die. It’s not at all what you may think.
Some notes about the process
This went through the normal three stages of editing. There wasn’t a lot to do as Karen is a very good writer.
The cover
Karen had a very clear image of the green scorpion. We managed to find one that matched what she imagined and that also made a good book cover.
Some notes about style
Karen’s strong voice tends towards the literary. Sections are short so it is very digestible.
Who we think the reader is
It is certainly a young adult text. However, many other readers will enjoy this because of the quality of the writing. The plot at times resembles a video game, so it may appeal to gamers. The protagonist exists in a dystopia though I am pleased to say there is hope at the end. Even though it doesn’t have a ‘happy ever after ending’ there is some hope at the end.
What else
The ending is also open and I think leaves the story ready for a sequel. I hope it will come soon.
Review copies
It’s always great if you can buy the book and give us a review. Just click on the link to be taken to our bookshop. If you would like to review and you are strapped for cash, just get in touch for a free PDF or e-book file.
Grab your copy here