This might be the last time I mention the unfortunate broken rib incident: I have returned to riding. I look like I’m heading off into battle in my body protector, but lessons have been learned.

In other news, I had a lovely day out at Studley Grange’s Butterfly World and Farm Park, as my last birthday event and as I attempt to explore a little more of my new home town. The butterflies were pretty wonderful, but my highlight was the goats. They are adorable, cheeky little things – and I admire anyone who has to cope with their naughtiness on a daily basis.

What I’ve been working on

I finished off the copy-edit of some contemporary fiction for one of my long-standing indie clients and moved on to the copy-edit of a cosy supernatural mystery by another returning author client. It’s always a pleasure to see authors embracing their style and growing in confidence – that’s when stories really start to shine. It’s also exciting to work with a new client: the copy-edit of an accomplished dystopian YA novel will take me into November.

Alongside these, I completed the copy-edit of a relationship-focused novel for one of my publishing services clients, and then I took on a slightly unusual project: the proofread of both books in a series. It’s rare to be in this position, but it has its benefits. Style consistency and story details can be checked and confirmed while both books are at proof stage – and while the manuscripts are fresh in the memory.

What I read for fun

The Sun and the Void, by Gabriela Romero Lacruz, was the first book I received as part of my Illumicrate subscription. The cover design is simply stunning (in fact, the whole box was – I love all the goodies in the June edition), and the premise of the novel is intriguing and exciting. From the author’s website: ‘In a lush world inspired by the history and folklore of South America, a sweeping epic fantasy of colonialism, ancient magic, and two young women’s quest for belonging unfolds.’ I would say, though, that some of the themes are dark. Some truly monstrous things happen in this book, and the central characters appear able to sweep them aside without much trouble. There are some curious choices here, from characterisation to descriptions, and I wonder if improved editorial support would have produced a more compelling and enjoyable story.