**Author, coffee enthusiast, professional overthinker, and currently counting down the days until Greece!**

TAKING TIME TO REFLECT

I can't quite believe we're already here. The school year is almost over, the summer holidays are just around the corner, and somehow my daughter will be starting her GCSEs this September. Honestly… where has the time gone? It feels like only yesterday she was taking her first steps into primary school with a backpack almost bigger than she was, and now we're talking about revision timetables, exam options, and the next chapter of her life. Time has a funny way of slipping through your fingers when you're busy living it.

It reminds me a little of watching a tree grow. Day to day, it barely seems to change, but then one day you look up and realise it's taller than the fence, stronger than you remembered, and quietly becoming something incredible. Growing up happens in much the same way. It's gradual until suddenly it isn't. I think that's why I've been trying to remind myself to slow down a little. To put the phone away more often. To enjoy the quiet conversations, the lazy mornings, the family dinners, and those little moments that don't seem important at the time but somehow become the memories you treasure most. Life moves quickly enough on its own. We don't always have to rush with it.

GOING HOME

With that in mind, I'll be taking a short break from 24th July until 5th August to visit family in Greece. If you know me, you'll know Greece has always been home to a huge piece of my heart. After being away for too long, I genuinely start to itch for it. There's something about the warmth, the sea air, the slower pace of life, and hearing Greek all around me that instantly makes me feel like I've exhaled after holding my breath for months. I honestly can't wait to feel warm sand between my toes, spend long afternoons curled up on a sunbed with the sound of the waves in the background, and finally get stuck into writing more of my new series, a romantasy trilogy. Most importantly, though, I'm looking forward to quality time with family. Living in different countries means those moments together become even more precious, and I'm determined to soak up every second before it's time to come home again.

OUT OF OFFICE WILL SOON BE ON!

A quick shop update: while I'm away, any orders placed through my website won't be processed until I return. I'll start packing and shipping everything as soon as I'm back, so thank you in advance for your patience and understanding.

UPCOMING BOOK EVENTS

Although I can't announce all the exciting events I've got planned for 2027 (and yes... even 2028!) just yet, I can share two events that are now confirmed.

If you're planning to come along, I'd absolutely love to see you there! Meeting readers face-to-face is always one of my favourite parts of being an author. Tickets are still available for both events on Beventi, and my pre-orders are still open, so if you'd like to reserve signed books to collect on the day, now's the perfect time.

SIGNING OFF

As always, thank you for continuing to support me, my books, and this incredible journey. Whether you've been here from the beginning or have only just discovered my stories, I'm so grateful you're here.

I hope you're all able to find a little time this summer to slow down, pick up a good book, and enjoy the people who matter most.

With love & gratitude,

Effie

XO