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The days are getting longer, the first hints of warmth are creeping into the air, and I’ve finally packed away my thickest winter jumpers—though I’m keeping a lighter one handy, just in case! Spring always feels like a season of fresh starts, but sometimes life has other ideas about what gets done and when.

I originally hoped to have Ghost Justice, the final book in the Shades of Meaning series, out around Easter. That was the plan, at least. But, as often happens, life decided to rearrange my schedule for me. The good news is that it’s still coming—just a little later than expected! Barring any more surprises, it looks like summer will be Ghost Justice’s time to shine.

For those who’ve been waiting since Ghost Quest was published last September, thank you for your patience! I promise it will be worth the wait. In the meantime, I hope you’re enjoying the shift in the seasons—whether that means long walks in the fresh air, planning summer adventures, or just curling up with a good book while the world slowly wakes up from winter.

More updates soon!

Hi again everyone,

Here we are in June already. Where do the months go? The warm weather has brought with it a burst of inspiration and creativity as I dive deep into writing the sixth instalment of the Shades of Meaning series.

Every book in the Shades of Meaning series takes the characters into uncharted territories, both literally and figuratively. Book 6 is no exception. This time, I’m delving into themes of redemption, identity, and the complexities of moral ambiguity. Grace and her team will face their toughest challenges yet, making decisions that will shape their futures in unexpected ways.

One of the most exciting parts of writing this series has been witnessing the growth of the characters. They’re evolving, facing new dilemmas, and discovering more about themselves and each other. Expect to see deeper layers of their personalities unveiled, along with some surprising revelations that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Book 6 is expanding the universe of Shades of Meaning in ways I hadn’t initially envisioned and I can’t wait for you to explore these new settings and see how they influence the story.

Your feedback has been invaluable throughout this series. Hearing your thoughts and theories fuels my writing and often sparks new ideas. As I work on this book, I encourage you to share your expectations and predictions. Who knows? Your insights might just inspire a plot twist or character arc! Your excitement and support mean the world to me, and I’m thrilled to have you along for this journey.

Thank you for being part of the Shades of Meaning family. Stay tuned, stay curious, and, most importantly, keep reading!

Warmest wishes,

Maureen

I am delighted to announce that Book four of the Shades of Meaning Series is now available in both Kindle and paperback. Ghost Hell builds on the previous books but, like all the books in this series, it can be read as a stand alone story.

I can’t help but mention it’s long awaited publication falls delightfully in the middle of Easter. Oh yes! Not initially planned but an occurrence we are taking full advantage of as we busily celebrated its launch with oodles of chocolate. Perfect indeed.

As we are making ourselves feel slightly nauseous with chocolate overdose, let’s also turn our gaze towards the future. With the publication of Shades of Meaning book 4:- Ghost Hell I am setting my sights on new targets – the next instalment in the series, Ghost Quest.

Stay tuned for updates and sneak peeks because as soon as I am over my chocolate overdose I will return to work on Ghost Quest. It will be published later this year. Keep checking in for updates on its progress, publication date and other news. Until then, immerse yourself in the eerie yet enchanting world of Shades of Meaning:- Ghost Hell and let your imagination run wild.

Warm regards,

Maureen Murrish

Introduction:

Hey friends! Can you believe January is already behind us? Time flies, and I’ve been keeping busy with my writing and enjoying the little things, like tending to my garden. Let me catch you up on my month!

Progress:

The highlight of my January has undoubtedly been the completion of my latest literary venture, “Ghost Hell,” which is the fifth instalment in the Shades of Meaning series. As a writer, reaching the finish line of a book is always a momentous occasion, and this one was no exception. The characters, the plot twists, and the emotional rollercoaster are now in the capable hands of my proofreaders, who will help refine the story before it makes its way to you, the reader.

Highlights:

One of the joys of this month was not only the completion of Ghost Hell but also the beginning stages of planning for the sixth book in the series. Being a self-proclaimed “plantser” – a hybrid of a planner and a pantser – I relish in the satisfaction of having a solid outline to guide the narrative, allowing the story to flourish within its predetermined framework. The excitement of laying the foundation for a new adventure is invigorating. Ideas are brewing, characters are evolving, and the prospect of diving into the next chapter of this literary journey is nothing short of thrilling.

As I’ve been engrossed in my writing endeavours, I’ve taken breaks to marvel at the resilience of spring bulbs pushing through the soil, heralding the promise of a vibrant and colourful season ahead. Nature’s cycles never fail to inspire, and witnessing the gradual transformation in my garden has been a source of comfort and inspiration.

What’s Next:

Looking forward, I’m excited to see Ghost Hell take its final shape and eager to dive into the next writing adventure. As the bulbs in my garden grow, so does the anticipation for what the next month will bring – both in my stories and in the beauty of nature.

Here’s to a month filled with creativity, joy, and the simple pleasures that make life sweet. Until next time, happy reading and happy growing!

PROGRESS:

• Ghost Hell Unveiled: Guess what? I finally typed “The End” on the first draft of “Ghost Hell”! Cue the happy dance and a virtual high-five to all of you for being my writing cheerleaders. Ghost Hell is book four of the Shades of Meaning series and I can’t wait to spill some beans about the spooky twists and turns in this one.
• NaNoWriMo Adventures: So, November happened, and I decided to dive head-first into the craziness that is NaNoWriMo. I survived, folks! It was a wild ride of caffeinated nights, stubborn characters, and the occasional existential crisis. But hey, I emerged on the other side with a Ghost Hell manuscript that’s begging for some tender loving edits.

HI-LITES:

• Okay, let’s talk personal stuff. My hair? It’s officially on the “needs cutting” list. If it starts writing its own chapters, we’ve got a problem.
• My pooch? Convinced I’ve pulled a Houdini and left her for good. I come back from writing sessions to a mix of judgement and ecstatic tail-wagging. It’s like living with a triumphant mountain rescue dog. All she needs is a cask of brandy around her neck!
• Family? They’re on a mission to solve the mystery of my whereabouts. Emigrated? Nope, just buried under a pile of notebooks and coffee cups.

WHAT’S NEXT?:

• As I reflect on these past months, I’m buzzing with excitement for what’s next. A haircut is on the immediate agenda, and beyond that, there are more stories, more adventures, and more shared moments awaiting us.