It was the Harper Collins author party tonight and it was really nice. As well as celebrity spotting, it was great to hook up with authors that included Katie Regan, Rowan Colman and Lisa Clarke (author of the ‘Lola’ series of books!!! AND SHE SAID SHE IS A FAN OF MY BOOKS!!). Holla! 
Just got back from The Winchester Writers Conference- which I affectionately term as ‘Winnie’. Those of you familiar with my Blog will know what a huge role this conference played in my quest to become a published author. So it was an amazing honor to be asked to give the After Dinner Speech last night. There was an Amazing MC - Derek the Toastmaster who gave me the most amazing intro - I wish I’d taped it. I think he called me a ‘distinguished guest’ Me? Distinguished? And told the guests to ’show their aprreciation’ or something like that. He’s such a great guy too, who took such pride in his work. Looking fab in a brilliant red military jacket which on many occasions I wanted to try on! My agent was also in residence as she was taking part in some of the earlier lectures. During one, I sat in the audience and it was kinda strange to hear her talk about my book to the watching and listening delegates. Afterwards, she handed over a note from one of the delegates who said they were inspired to start writing their novel after reading Reaching for the Stars!!!! How wonderful is that?? A couple of ladies also came up to me and asked; ‘Are you Lola Jaye?’ and I wanted to ask.. ‘How do you know…?’ Ermm… pics on the book page, Facebook, etc…. ‘Doh Lola!!’ I feel a bit guilty that I didn’t have time to chat longer with some - everyone was just so lovely. It’s great getting to meet all sorts of different people. I met a writer who I have decided I want to be like when I get older (ok, I am talking as if I’m 22 but humor me here!) The most surreal moment of the night came as I stood standing on the balcony and watching through the glass as around hundred guests all seated at their dinner tables, began thumbing through my book; ‘Reaching for the Stars’ (a free gift from my lovely publishers). It was so surreal. Amazing and something I’ll never forget.I’m now back home , the sun is shining and I’ve just had a lovely full English Brekkie at my local Cafe.Lovely.
… And I’m still here! The book’s been out over a month now and I’ve had some lovely reviews and feedback from Pride magazine, The Daily Record, Glamour and my website Guestbook.
PEOPLE ACTUALLY LIKE MY NEW BOOK!!!Always nice (and a bit of a relief) when it’s only been myself and under a handful of people who have seen it! 