Well, here we are again.  One year ending and a new one about to begin.  In fact it already has in some parts of the world.  I was eating lunch when the sound of celebrations came over the airwaves from Auckland, New Zealand.  Although there are a few hours still to go here in England I wanted to get 2013 off to a good start.  I haven't made any resolutions as such but I have put a New Year Contest on my website.  There's a chance to win a copy of my new book, The Caged Countess, which comes out on the 1st January.  All you have to do is answer a simple question correctly and you're in with a chance.

In the meantime, if you're partying tonight, I hope you have a great time, and wish you all a happy and prosperous 2013.

Joanna's Day

My contest for the Advent Calendar is up and running so be sure to get your entry in.  You could win a beautiful Blue John pendant.  This rare and highly prized semi-precious stone is found only here in the Peak District.  I chose it for that reason, wanting to offer something that had a strong and unique Derbyshire connection.   That thought seems to have resonated with quite a few people so thanks for the positive feedback, folks.  More details about this giveaway can be found on my website.

Meanwhile, I have been attempting to get to grips with Christmas.  Usually this means a last-minute panic but this time I have actually started early.  Early for me, that is.  Everything is relative.  The price of postage has rocketed though so I've resorted to emails instead of putting bulky letters in cards.  A lot of people are doing the same, especially those who live overseas.  Otherwise we'd require a small mortgage just to post a handful of mail.

Alongside this is the novel I'm trying to finish and author amendments for another story.  By the time I get that lot done I'll be ready for a few days off.  With that thought in mind I'll get back to work.

Going Over the Tops

The Harlequin Historical Authors Advent Calender has got off to a flying start this year.  Thanks to everyone who has supported us so far.  Keep checking each day for details of the different contests you can enter.  Don't forget, my day is the 6th December.  Answer a simple question and you could win a beautiful Blue John pendant.  More details can be found on my website.

I went over to Castleton recently in order to collect the prize for this contest.  For those of you who aren't locals, Blue John is a rare semi-precious stone unique to the Peak District of Derbyshire.  It is highly-prized and has been mined here since Roman times. 

The drive over the tops to Castleton is truly scenic and I'd chosen a beautiful day to do it, but it was also perishing cold.  I really regretted not wearing my thermals.  On the plus side it was a good excuse to visit a tea shop and warm up a bit.  While I was there I took some pics as well.  Mam Tor and Peverell Castle certainly looked dramatic in the late afternoon light.  Take a look and get a flavour of the place.