A Quick Catch Up of the Last Year

Find my work in here

I have had quite a busy year, as you will know if you follow any of my social media. So much so, that I realise that I have not updated this website for quite some time. Eek! So many wonderful writerly things have happened in the last year that I thought a quick catch up would be best! In the future, I plan to keep this site updated much more regularly.

Since I last posted, I have climbed my biggest mountain so far: my first novel. I am adding the final touches to the millionth draft, and I should be ready to send out queries by September. The novel is an Urban Fantasy YA set in Exeter, with lots of witches and demons to keep my protagonist, Viola, very busy! I have been lucky enough to work with an excellent developmental editor, and I am very optimistic for the future of this book, based on their comments and that of my beta readers. Thank you to everyone who has helped me with this project over the last year and a half.

Performing at Ashbourne Library

While I awaited my editors notes, I also started my second novel, another YA. This time, I have dipped my toe in the Supernatural Thriller genre. This is an exciting project that has been on the cards for a very long time, featuring a protagonist with a very different view of the world. While this is currently on the back burner during my final edits to my first novel, I hope to complete the first draft just after Christmas.

Regarding short stories, I have had much success there, too. I have had a cosy Christmas murder short, 'Hush', referenced on The Failing Writers' Podcast, in a fun little jingle. I have recently also had confirmation that my horror short, 'The Skeleton Melody of April', will appear on The Bare Books Podcast on the 20th August: https://barebooks.co.uk/season-9-flash-fiction/

I have also been published in print on several occasions, including my short horror story 'Crawl' in Dark Holme Publishing's 'Dark Descent: Whispers from Beyond' anthology, and also in the Nottingham Writers' Society 'What Happens Next' anthology, with my comedic micro fiction 'Melodie Range's Stranger'. I was lucky enough to have the chance to perform this at Nottingham Library earlier this year.

The NWS 'What Happens Next' anthology has completed its print run, but my short story is now available to read on our short story page here: https://klbspn.wixsite.com/klbexon/extracts-and-short-stories

However, if you wish to purchase a copy of the 'Dark Descent: Whispers from Beyond' anthology, you can order one here: https://www.darkholmepublishing.uk/product-page/paperback-dark-descent-whispers-from-beyond-anthology-2026

A couple of weeks ago, I was fortunate to be able to attend the Ashbourne Writers' Group showcase called 'Open the Door' and performed a reading of my reflective short story 'Where You Are' at Ashbourne Library. I very much enjoyed all of the other amazing work performed. The place was packed out- we had to get extra chairs!

In addition to all of this, I have started a writing channel on You Tube. I post hints and tips for successful writing every month, and also release shorts and behind the scenes peeks into my first novel. Click here to check it out: https://www.youtube.com/@K.LBexon

I am incredibly eager for opportunities in the coming year for more anthology publications, podcast spotlights and further reading performances of my work. I also can't wait to complete novel number two, and to begin the querying process for the very first time.

Here's to the next writing year being as productive and exciting as the last one!