The Luke Bright Series has never really had one genre – the closest I can box it in to (other than young adult) is coming of age. However, it has parts of action, crime, mystery to name a few. Whilst that’s something I feel adds to the story, it can make it hard to find an audience. That’s why I know being able to classify my next book will hopefully make life a bit easier. This one has a very clear genre.

Dark comedy – not just because that’s the name of the lead character – is the primary genre for ‘The Signs Are Coming’ – the WIP I’ve been developing the last few years. Ever since I saw the film ‘In Bruges’ I knew that dark comedy was going to be a place I had to dip my toe into, and quite frankly, I was surprised how naturally it came to me.

One thing you have to bear in mind with dark comedies, which I’ve learnt doing this book, is that it’s an all or nothing approach. You either have to commit fully or not at all. There have been times I’ve questioned whether things are too much or whether I’ve taken it too far, but in this case, you have to get rid of your limits. However, you always have to bear in mind your audience.

One thing I’ve had to do lately is cut out a lot of profanity from it because I know that’s going to limit me being able to publish this book. Luckily, the book works just as well without (most) of it. I’m glad of that because at least those weren’t the only funny parts! I’ve also had to look at doing different scenes in a way I find more comfortable, because whilst I know dark comedy is meant to offend, you need to find that balance before you really put off some readers. It’s an interesting process, and the past couple of days have been really fun. Sure, Luke’s books are great fun to write and so natural, but there’s something really freeing about this genre.

I’m hoping to be able to venture further into it with other books I write, but right now, getting that one as good to perfection as possible is my priority – it’ll be a good successor to The Luke Bright Series. I’m sure there’s plenty more that can be pushed, whether it should be is another question! Let’s see what happens!

Atlantic Split, At Liberty To Live and An Undercover Dream, the first three books in The Luke Bright Series are available to purchase NOW! The final book of the series A Long Lost Time will be released in 2020!

Please follow me on my blog and social media links below, and use the links on my website to purchase a copy of each if you have not done so. Don’t forget to leave a review! Thank you once again for taking the time to read this blog post.

N.A.K