I love this image. It might just depict the funniest thing I’ve ever seen. If you can believe it, it is the wheelchair/pram access that was installed in a school I worked at. There is nothing fake about this image. Please, count the steps. Think about the geometry and physics involved here. I don’t think the people who designed and installed it did.
***
Hello and welcome to the hub of my online presence. That’s me on my beloved Dymchurch beach.
I am a crime writing author publisher.
You can find out more about the books I’ve written including links to both Amazon UK and Amazon US by clicking on the options in block capitals in the header menu above.
Here is a quick overview of what’s available:
The Romney and Marsh Files – British police procedurals set in Dover, Kent, (seven books).
The Acer Sansom novels – international thrillers (four books).
Booker & Cash stories – private detective tales set in the south of England (three books).
Three Short Blasts is a book of three short stories – one in each of my three series above.
Other books:
Cold Kills – a snowy survival story.
The Crime Writer and other stories – a collection of short stories, novelettes and novellas.
The Prole Soldier – a story set in a dystopian near future.
The Fallen Agent – a UK terrorist threat spook story.
The Harm Farm – a torture-for-pleasure-and-profit- business is uncovered by an investigative journalist.
As you can see from the comments pages in the header menu, I enjoy hearing from readers, so if you’d like to get in touch, don’t be shy.
Thanks.
Oliver Tidy 
I just finished “A Dog’s Life” and loved it! I love your characters. Thank you very much for a good read with humor. It’s the first book of yours that I have read and I will read all of them, or at least all of the R&M books. I left you a good review. Thanks for moving to Turkey to teach and write. I too am a teacher in the US and there is no time to write, when I worked overseas I had so much time that I got a Master’s degree in my spare time. One of my friends from overseas has now retired and is writing and selling books on B&N. Keep writing as you are very good at it.
Hi Tamara,
Thanks very much for getting in touch with such a positive message. Good to know you enjoyed the read and you’ll look out for others.
The humour has become important to me in this series, but I didn’t really get into my stride with it until the third book. A Dog’s Life is my favourite of the four for the humour. The first, Rope Enough, is far more ‘serious’.
You’ve obviously read my ‘About Me’ page. A real, full-time teaching job is exhausting, as you’ll know, and leaves little time or energy to really pursue something as demanding as writing for a hobby. That’s my experience, anyway.
Good luck to your friend and thanks for your kind words.
Best wishes.
If you like Ross Mcdonald, try anything by Ross Thomas, (deceased alas) or Christopher Brookmyre’s early stuff, both a bit quirky & convoluted & both on Kindle.
Or John D.Mcdonald, not the Travis Mcgee stuff, his other P.I. stories can be quite gritty. He’s dead as well, I mourn some of the old writers who could actually write a beginning & an end.
But am looking forward to your next…………………………………..!
Hello,
Thanks for your suggestions. I shall certainly look out for Ross Thomas. Not heard of him before. (Just Googled him.) I know of Brookmyre, but am yet to try him. I should. I understand he is well thought of. I very much enjoyed the first Travis McGee but the third wasn’t so much to my liking. I found myself skipping some parts, which is always a bad sign. I’ll keep an eye out for JD’s non-Travis novels. Elmore Leonard will always take some beating, another late great.
I’m writing B&C#2 at the moment. Thanks for your compliment.
Best wishes.
Hi Oliver
I’ve now read all of your books, most recently B&C. I’m hooked and my wife has just discovered your writing – it’s rare that she comments so enthusiastically about the books I tend to read (crime and adventure) . It’s also sparked an interest in visiting the locations you write about, curiosity as I’ve only really passed through Dover (as many do), to race to the port. Being a Brummie, Kent is a corner of England seldom explored by us ‘northerners’.
Please keep up the great work.
Russ
Hi Russ,
Sorry for delay of my response to your very kind message – I’ve been on an extended Internetless (!) holiday. Never again!
Many thanks for your purchases of my books and your kind comment. It’s always good to learn that the books are being enjoyed.
The whole of that area of the south coast holds a lifelong fascination for me and most of my memories have something to do with the place. Probably why I seem to be fixated on it in my writing. Actually, I hope to promote the places a bit too, especially Romney Marsh which is quite special. If you are encouraged to find out a bit more about them, I’m thrilled.
Thanks again for getting in touch.
Best wishes to you and your wife.
Hi, Oliver-
I just wanted to leave a word of encouragement. The quality of your writing is far above that of all the other self-published books I’ve seen. I know that breaking into print publishing takes a lot more than talent and effort, but hang in there–if anyone ca do it, I think you can. I’ve only read two books so far–the first two Romney and Marsh files–but plan to do them all. I don’t know how much help it will be, but I’ll post some good reviews.
Hı
Many thanks for your most thoughtful and encouraging message. I sıncerely appreciate your tıme, trouble and support. It’s also good to know that you are enjoying the R&M Files thus far. I hope that if and when you get around to the others they don’t disappoint. Positive reviews always help writers like me and they’re hıghly motivating, so I thank you for that, too.
Thanks again and best wishes.
Hi Oliver, this is the first time I’ve ever communicated directly with an author but just wanted to congratulate you on your books. I’ve read all 4 Romney and Marsh books now and enjoyed every one. Having been a Detective for more than 20 years and having worked on numerous murder enquiries I am sometimes critical of crime fiction writers. However the fact I’ve continued reading your books is testament to how good they are. Lots of authors make the mistake of making the main character in their books officers of senior rank like Superintendents or Chief Inspectors, who in fact rarely leave the station. The fact your stories involve DI, DS and Dc’s investigating crimes really strikes a chord and is far more akin to what actually happens.
One suggestion to make things more real would be to loose the formal way they all address each other, within CID the rank structure is not what it is in Uniform departments and it would be highly unlikely a Sergeant would call an Inspector ‘Sir’, they are far more likely to use first names with each other. I have noted in book 4 Romney has started calling Marsh by her first name more often and wonder if you have already taken this on board from other reviews.
In book 4 I was also impressed by how Romney stood up to the new Superintendent, this is exactly what old school DI’s (which is what I imagine Romney to be) would do.
Keep up the good work Oliver, I’m looking forward to the next instalment. I will be looking at your other works in the meantime.
Hi April,
Firstly, many thanks for your downloads of the series and for taking the time and trouble to get in touch over the R&M Files. It’s always good to learn that a reader has enjoyed them. And it’s particularly good to hear from readers who’ve had first hand experience of the sort of thing I’m writing about that my idea of what goes on on an outpost of Kent police is not so far from the mark. I say idea because I have no experience or sources to call on.
You are quite right to think that the introduction of first names in book four was as a result of reader feedback – both those with police experience and those without. I wrote book four some time after the first three had been out there.
Part of me still wants to keep Romney that little bit aloof from his team. He’s a bit old-fashioned like that, as you’ve guessed. I just don’t know if I can get them to call him Tom. I don’t think Romney would be comfortable with it. I think I can get away with Grimes calling him ‘gov’ (guess who used to watch The Bill) but I don’t see Marsh using that term or his first name, so I’m left with ‘sir’, even if that might not be right.
I am comforted to learn from you that Romney standing up to the new Super was not a step too far. I still wonder, though, without giving too much away here to any potential readers who might stumble by this page, was Romney’s retribution on the sea front at the end of book four too much? If you read this, I’ll be interested in your thoughts, although there’s not much to be done about it now.
Once again, many thanks for your very encouraging contact. I do appreciate it.
Best wishes.
Hello again Oliver, I understand your reluctance to have his team calling him Tom, it’s probably right that Grimes calls him ‘Gov’ as he is one rank removed. Other terms used are ‘Boss’ and just plain old ‘Inspector’. Usually ‘Sir’ is kept for higher ranks.
You surprise me that you have no input from inside sources as you have a lot of things right, it is only maybe evidence and procedure that is sometimes a little off the mark, but, I personally just remind myself that this is fiction after all and something to be enjoyed without getting bogged down too much by exact Police procedures.
Regarding Romney seeking retribution in book 4, there was a time in the Police Service where this definitely would have happened, maybe not so much these days! However Police Officers are only human so it is believable, it also shows Romney cares more than he admits to. It’s also good to read about some scrote receiving some justifiable summary justice (I can say that now I’m retired). I used to love watching DS Andy Sipowicz dishing out some justice in NYPD Blue!
Best wishes,
Hi April
Thanks for your reply and comments. Really, everything helps.
I’ve been pulled up a few times for my ‘police procedure’ but always the comments have been good natured, helpful and well intended. It seems that DI Romney et al strike something of a chord (not too painful on the ear) with the law enforcement officers, both serving and retired, who’ve come across my books. On that note, I find it interesting that police officers read crime fiction for pleasure. As a teacher of young learners if I saw a book about teaching I’d give it a very wide berth.
Good to know, too, that Romney’s assault of a scrote meets with your approval. I can’t tell you how much I longed to get to that bit of the book.
NYPD Blue – that takes me back. What a cracking series that was.
Best wishes.
I can assure you that retribution often occurs , even with todays policing. Bending rules to obtain warrants are all current in the police service. The type of event that got Marsh attacked is exactly the type of thing other officers would take a dim view of and be ready to hand out a bit of retribution, still many officer see the attacks on female officers as totally wrong. I retired from the police service in 2011.
David
Good to hear from you on this. I didn’t realise that you were in the police. Thanks for your view on this part of the story. It’s always good to hear from those with experience of things that what I’ve included is plausible. Knowing Romney like I do, I certainly felt it was appropriate for him.
Best wishes.
Oliver,
Thanks for another riveting novel, treated myself to this on Sunday and have just finished it after a sumptuous Braai (barbecue for those not aware of South African terminology) with friends , I am completely knackered but could not resist your latest Acer novel and will look forward to the next installment.
Hope you had a good Christmas and best wishes for 2015
Bob Allen. No relation to the one in your last Romney and Marsh novel !!!!!
Bob
Good to hear from you. Many thanks for your ongoing support through downloads and feedback. Much appreciated. Glad you enjoyed this latest Acer instalment.
The Braai sounds like a great way to spend the festive season. (Better than teaching on Christmas day for sure.)
Best wishes to you for 2015.
PS Not heard a peep from that Mrs Allen or her lawyers from R&M#4.
Dear dear Oliver…..you never fail to deliver !!! What a Christmas present….the new Acer book, feels like I’ve been waiting an eternity for this ( I do, of course, realise that I read quicker than you can write !)
What an excellent read – twists and turns galore, fast-paced and, as always, I am left anxiously awaiting no. 4 !!!!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you…..you made my Christmas !!!
Happy New Year,
Jacky
Sent from my iPad
>
Hi Jacky
I know that you are an Acer fan and so I am thrilled that you got your ‘present’ and that it pleased you. Job done. You’ve made my day. 🙂
I’m thinking about #4 and looking forward to writing it. Working on something else at the moment.
Best wishes for 2015.
Hi Oliver,
Just read Rope Enough and thoroughly enjoyed it. No typos, very refreshing! Will certainly recommend this book to friends and will also start reading other books written by yourself.
Irene
Hi Irene
Many thanks for getting in touch. Very good to know that you enjoyed the first R&M File. And thanks for the recommendations. They’re a big help. If and when you read any of my other books, please let me know what you think.
Best wishes.
Hi Oliver, I am a 67 year old psychotherapist living near Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. I caught the flu on January 4 2015 and I am having a lot of trouble shaking it. During this time I have read the four Romney and Marsh novels, the two Booker and Cash and am now reading the first Acer Samson.
I liked them a lot and I think I must like you a lot, too. Who you are shines through all your works and I have enjoyed your camaraderie during this highly aggravating period. Your sense of humor has sustained me. I like the way you build a relationship between reader and character and between characters. I like that you don’t hold stupid grudges but pursue more serious forms of accountability. I wish a lot of the individuals with whom I work could develop some of balance that I experience when I read your novels. Thanks!! However, you better get hopping. I only have a few more to go and then what??? Eeeeeeek!
Hi Sue
Thanks for getting in touch.
I always enjoy hearing from readers, especially from far-a-field, but some messages tickle me more than others. I enjoyed yours a lot.
My sympathies for your bout of flu. I hope you are fully recovered soon. (I’m sure that you appreciate that the kind of flu a woman gets is nothing compared to the seriousness of the flu that a ‘man’ can come down with.) 🙂
My sincere thanks for your downloads of my books and your time and trouble to get in touch. I’m very pleased to learn that you are enjoying them. If my writing, and humour, appeals to you then I’m sure we’d get on. As you’ve understood, there’s a lot of me in the books.
I’m currently slogging away on R&M#5. It’s going well and I hope to have it out in the Spring.
Best wishes, thanks again and get well soon.
Hi Oliver,
I have just read and thoroughly enjoyed the four Romney Marsh books and wanted to thank you for such enjoyable stories. I am British and live in Melbourne and whilst I do not know Dover well, I do remember passing through it on numerous occasions as a youngster with my family. Your characters are great and I particularly enjoyed the French policeman, named Poisson! That was fun. I am not concerned about correct procedures etc…. but understand this may be important to others, for my part, a ripping good story which keeps me turning the pages is much more important, together with a bit of escapism! I am about to start the Acer series and cannot wait! Please keep on writing.
Kind regards
Hi Wendy
Many thanks for your wonderful message. Your kind words made my day. And thanks, too, for your downloads of my books.
It’s always good to know that another reader has discovered and enjoyed the R&M FIles (especially from such far flung places) and then that they might be encouraged to have a go at some of my other books.
You’ll find Acer a different read to R&Ms. I hope you enjoy him.
R&M File #5 is in post-production. I hope to have it available in the next couple of months.
Best wishes and thanks again.
Hello Oliver, It’s uncanny how the random choice of a book can throw up names of a colleague from the past. I’ve just looked at the comments to you from Colin Alanskas (the name from the past). I too am a former Kent officer who specialised in CID work (DI in Forensic Services and then DCI Criminal Intelligence and Divisional duties). I can also claim another link with ‘Rope’ as I now live on Romney Marsh. Yes, I really enjoyed the ‘goings on’ in Dover and I’m looking forward to choosing my next Oliver Tidy book.
Kind regards
Hello John
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to get in touch. I’m always pleased to hear from readers of my books.
Blasts from the past turning up in unexpected places give life a little jolt of interest and pleasure. I’ve had a couple of people I’ve known from way back come across me on Amazon and then get in touch. It was always good to hear from them.
I’ll be honest with you, I get a little nervous receiving comments from readers who will have a far greater knowledge and understanding of the things I write about than I do. (I’m well aware that my police procedure is not as accurate as it might be.) Still, my fears for a good upbraiding remain unrealised – comments are invariably kind and generous. Why do I mention this? With your credentials I’m sure you could find a lot to take issue with if you felt like it. Thanks for not. Yet.
Very good to know that you enjoyed the first R&M File. I hope you’ll try another. And if you’re living on Romney Marsh – somewhere I was born and bred and have a deep and abiding love for – perhaps my Booker and Cash stories might interest you.
Best wishes and thanks again.
Hi! New fan here. I discovered the Romney & Marsh series last week and although the first in the series was a bit rough around the edges, I gave the second a try and found it to be a much better constructed story although all that mayhem with only one arrest was a bit disappointing. Books three, four and five are tidy little stories (pun intended) and fun reads. It will be most interesting to see if book six opens with DI Romney finding himself in a bit of trouble over his unprofessional relationship in book five. By the way, unless I missed some hint along the way, DI Romney apparently juggling two women throughout the book was well done and a “tidy” morsel at the end. I also just finished reading both books of the Booker & Cash series. Considering the action in the first book I was concerned about how long Booker would be able to withstand the physical abuse to his body but was pleased in book two that their adventure was more cereberal. Everyone’s a critic and I felt let down at the end of the first Booker & Cash book by the “particular stupidity” that perpetrated the mayhem and had a long hard think about continuing my reading of that series. I’m glad I decided to continue – book 2 of the Booker & Cash series is excellent and I hope future books in the series are more like book 2 than book 1. Looking forward to the next book in both series. Oh, I particularly like being able to call up Google Maps and actually explore most of the locations and locals mentioned in both series and building stories around historical events is great as long as the story honors history and doesn’t try to change it.
Hi Gary,
Many thanks for getting in touch to let me know you’re enjoying the reads. It’s much appreciated and always good to know.
I have a lot of fun writing both the R&M Files and the B&C books. The humour, or rather my idea of what’s funny, isn’t to everyone’s taste, but it’s nice to hear that it’s worked for you.
I’ve had a few readers express reservations over the ending to B&C#1. All I can say is it seemed the right thing to do at the time. (Where have I heard that before?)
You may have seen mentioned on the blog that I was born and bred in Romney Marsh, hence the names of my Dover detectives and the setting for B&C. I’m looking forward to writing more in the B&C series because the location is somewhere I know very well and have great affection for. If a side-effect of the B&C books is that some readers are encouraged to check it out on Google or in the flesh then I’m made happy.
Have no fear, I am not out to change history. There’s plenty to write about without that. I do have an idea for an historical angle in B&C #3 when I can find the time to write it. Currently, I’m bashing away at R&M#7 while R&M#6 ferments in the bottom drawer.
I will not spoil the opening to R&M #6 for you but I do hope you’ll give it a go. With luck it should be out before Christmas.
All the best and thanks again for your contact and support of my writing through your purchases.
Happy New Year to you, Oliver! Have you said what led you to teach in Turkey? Away from home and it’s boundaries, I can fully understand, but why Turkey? And are you thinking of returning to the UK? I spent some time perusing the area of Romney Marsh online, and I must say that it looks quite beautiful! I would opt for a tucked- away cottage in which to write hands down! (If only I could write) And I must push you to get on with Booker and Cash. I managed a bookstore for upwards of twenty years, and so that series particularly “speaks to me.” (I did not make air commas while typing) In the meantime, since I read faster than you write, I may give the Acer Samson series a try.
All best wishes, Dianne
Hi Dianne,
Thank you for your New Year wishes. The same to you and yours.
As I said in my previous message I lived a long time on the Marsh. I felt I needed a change, to see something more of the world, but I still needed to work. As a qualifed teacher and native English speaker the world, I discovered, is your oyster, as they say.
I applied for a teaching job in Istanbul in order to get some interview practice. Then they offered it to me. It seemed rude to say no, so I accepted the position.
Five years there saw me married to a Turk with a child. He’s four now.
We moved to Ankara, the Turkish capital, this year so that my wife could be nearer her family. Ankara is surely the most boring capital city in the world. I agreed to the move on the condition that I could try to make my writing and self-publishing work by taking a year off work.
Right now I couldn’t be happier with what I’m doing.
But I do miss ‘home’ (no speech marks in the air from me either 🙂 ).
We intend to move to the UK in a year or so for my son’s education. I’m looking forward to that.
I’m interested to learn of your bookstore history. I’m quite a collector of first editions. I have thousands back home in boxes waiting for my return.
It might further interest you to know that as well as my long personal connection with Romney Marsh the building that I have set ‘Bookers’ book themed coffee shop in is a property I own. I’ve described it faithfully in the books. There is a big shop downstairs, currently rented by a going concern. If I ever won the lottery, which I don’t do, I would turn the shop into a real-life Bookers and have all my books lining the walls (behind lockable glass fronts, of course.). And I’d sit on my own table at the back writing all day and drinking coffee. Did I mention I’m a bit of a dreamer?
I have started B&C#3 but have had to interrupt myself while I finish some editing on other things. I hope to have it out before the spring.
If you do give Acer a go, please let me know what you think.
Best wishes.
Dianne, DEFINITELY give the Acer series a read, in order, ….excellent. Oliver has promised he is in the throes of the next one & I am anxiously awaiting it’s release 😉 I promise you won’t be disappointed 😄😄
Thanks, Jacky. It’s good to know you’re still enthusiatic for Acer’s story.
Acer#4 is now with my gentleman friend who proofreads for me. He’s time-tabling to start work early in January. So… hopefully… it should be available around the end of that month. Naturally, I’ll post on the blog when i know more.
Best wishes.
Hi again, Oliver,
I am most envious of your ownership of the Bookers building! I can envision myself there as well, perched behind the counter, regaling customers about my favorite authors! The last bookstore I managed was a 15-year stint for an absentee owner. That is a dream situation; you have all the control, none of the worries – like cash flow…. It was a new and used store, set up like a new retail operation with categories well defined, neat as a pin, light and welcoming. We did have a section for modern first editions, but since I am a maven of international crime fiction (!), it became the store for readers of that genre. I particularly pushed The Book Depository (can’t believe it’s now owned by Amazon!) so that we would have a flow of books not yet available in the U.S. It was greatly rewarding to introduce readers to new authors and new literary locales. I, since leaving the store, have been reading on a Kindle almost exclusively; there are still books that are randomly not available as ebooks, sometimes right in the middle of a series. I recently discovered J.J. Salkeld’s Lake District series, and now am beginning his second series with some new and some crossover characters. A long favored author,however, is Graham Hurley. I have completed his Farraday novels, but his newer Jimmy Suttles series is a case in point; the third is in print form only at an amazingly steep price. I must tell you that you and Torquil Mac Leod are the authors I most recommend to friends these days. You both have elevated the self-published ebook by quality editing and proofing, and by delivering compelling characters and tales.
Again, continued success to you. I hope to see a picture of you at your little back table in your store one day!
Dianne
Good morning, Dianne, and a happy new year to you.
Believe me, if you saw the state of the roof on the place you would not envy me my ownership. If you have ever seen the film The Money Pit with Tom Hanks it will give you some idea of what I’m dealing with. But my plans for the place are what keep me feeling positive about it. I see what it could be very clearly. In the meantime, thankfully, my sister keeps an eye on things for me (and regularly empties the buckets.)
Your bookshop sounds wonderful and, as you say, yours was a good position to be in.
One of the things I miss most about living abroad is the lack of access to decent bookshops, second-hand and new. Whever i return home I try to make up for lost time.
Maven (?) I had to look that up. And I’ve started 2016 with a new word in my vocabulary. 🙂 Wouldn’t that make a great title for a book? The Maven.
I’ve read Hurley and he’s very good. Not tried Salkeld yet but I see he has a new series started and he does well on Amazon.
I really appreciate your recommendations to other readers. You’ll know that word of mouth is so important to a writer like me with no big publishing house behind them.
Time to get back to the grind. No rest for the… self-published!
Best wishes and thanks again.
I have enjoyed your Romney and Marsh books and now am reading Booker and Cash. My first holidays in the 1930s were at St Mary’s Bay and my cousin still owns the sea front chalet. I know Dymchurch and have found the marsh fascinating. One real beef I have is the constant need for a cigarette on the part of the main character. It is really irritating. I used to smoke 60+ a day and quit cold turkey years back. If I can do it so can anyone.
I now live in Canada and am getting a bit creaky to travel much so I won’t visit the Romney Marsh again but am enjoying the area vicariously through your writing.
Hi Richard,
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to get in touch.
I’m very pleased to learn that you’re enjoying the R&M Files enough to try another of my series. Thanks.
Romney Marsh is my home. I still visit regularly and fondly. I love the place. It’s good to know that you’re getting some pleasure out of my writing about it.
David Booker isn’t going to remain a smoker. In fact i seem to remember he’s given up by book two. Good news!
I visited BC, Canada, last year. Vancouver to be precise. Loved it.
Best wishes and thanks again.
Hi Oliver,
I am thoroughly enjoying your Romney and Marsh series. My passion is language – the written word, and I think your skill, wit, pace and imagery, offer we readers an exquisite experience. I look forward to reading all of your books and thank you for sharing your gift.
If you find time to read yourself, I too recommend Salkeld.
Kind regards,
Helene
Hi Helene
Thanks very much for your time and trouble to get in touch regarding the R&M Files. It’s always great to hear such encouraging words from readers. Thank you.
I’m aware of JJ Salkeld’s work, but I haven’t tried him yet. I do, indeed, still enjoy reading crime fiction, despite writing it. I’ll give him a go on your recommendation.
Best wishes and thanks again.
Hi Oliver,
I have just finished reading ‘Rope Enough’ , a free download from Amazon. Whilst reading, I on several occasions reflected on how well written your story is and made a mental note to seek out more of your books. It was not until I finished the book and discovered upon reading your notes, that you are self published. Well done Sir ! A thoroughly enjoyable read that kept me interested throughout.
Hi Steve
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to feedback positively on the first R&M File. Much appreciated. As you’ll have seen from the back of the book that kind of thing is important to us self-publishers. Good to know that you enjoyed the read.
Best wishes.
Hi Oliver
I am now on book 6 in the R&M series brilliant writing I have really enjoyed all up to now carcaters are great would make a good TV series
keep up the good work
Gary
That’s great news. Thanks very much for taking the time to share here. Much appreciated. I’d love to see the R&M Files on TV. What fun that could be.
R&M#7 is coming!
Best wishes
It says above this box “Leave a Reply” (with a gratuitous capital R), but I’m not replying to anything, so I can only hope this is the right place for a comment on one your books. I’ve just been reading your first Booker and Cash novel and I really enjoyed the writing. I particularly loved the local colour, since I know the area and live fairly nearby at Biddenden. Your descriptions of the alternative reality that is Dungeness were spot on.
A few gripes, however: the plot goes silly and extraordinarily clichéd twoards the end: the baddie who decides to explain everything… the henchman… I won’t say more to avoid spoilers. I’m not surprised the Frenchmen decide to have a family quarrel in English (!), since they can’t speak anything resembling correct French. Almost every phrase has at least one mistake in it. And as for the actions ascribed to the Turkish wife… words fail me. Again, spoilers forbid further comment. One last thing: when was the Second World War? Fifty years ago? Sixty years ago? Methinks not.
Hello Paul
Many thanks for your feedback on B&C#1. I always appreciate hearing from readers.
Good to know that, shall we say, you enjoyed ‘aspects’ of the read. 🙂
Regarding the French, I took advice from a couple of Francophiles who have lived in France for many years. I don’t speak the language myself.
As for the Turkish wife, having one myself and having British friends with Turkish wives and having lived in Turkey for some years, I can assure you that sort of behaviour is not unusual. Some of the locals might even consider it restrained. 🙂
Best wishes
Thanks for replying. I did not mean to seem negative, as I really enjoyed the book until the dénouement. I am now on book two, so that should say something.
Hi Paul
No worries. Good to know that you’re reading B&C#2. I hope you enjoy the read.
Best wishes.
Oliver,
I have really enjoyed the R&M series, I have read the first five and am close to the end of 6.
When I read the first two I lived, and expected to always live, in Coventry. By a twist in life I now live in Tenterden which makes the settings all the more real and absorbing.
What I enjoy the most in your writing is the way I can envisage the characters, Romney, Marsh, Grimes and Vine come to life on the page and I have an image of each, that relationship strikes home emotionally in the events of book six. I wont spell that out for those who are yet to read it but I defy any reader to not feel emotion after the car and lorry incident…I certainly did.
Great stories, back stories, humour, locality and the characters all bring the books to life, I agree with an earlier comment that these books would make good TV.
I look forward to R&M 7 in the meantime I look forward to investigating Booker and Cash
I hope you take it as compliment that my other favourite writers in your genre are Lynda La Plante and Lynwood Barclay, so I would suggest you are in pretty good company.
A final note, I am loving my life in Kent and have spent much of my time in the first 12 months here getting out and about in the South of the county and the many beautiful places, many of which you refer to.
Hello Richard
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to leave such encouraging feedback on the R&M Files. It’s much appreciated as are your downloads of the books.
It is always particularly special for me to have a reader comment so favourably on the books in the context of a series.
I have had a great deal of fun writing them – and some tears of my own, I admit. #7 went off to the proofreader today.
I hope that you enjoy B&C also – getting closer to Tenterden. If you investigated haven’t been yet, Romney Marsh is well worth a look and just down the road from you now.
Best wishes and thanks again.
Just finished reading ‘Rope Enough’, which I got as a freebie from Book Bub; I enjoyed it so much that I immediately purchased the 2nd R & M book. If that is as good, which I really hope it will be, I will definitely buy all the other R & M novels on my Kindle. i will also try one each of your other two sets, with the same intention, if I like them.
I really enjoy crime novels, but much prefer the British ones to the American. Not only do I prefer reading about a world I understand but I, generally, prefer the style of British writers. Your characters are very real, set in believable scenarios, and private lives which we enter only to enhance the Police investigation.
I certainly wish you every success in your career, partly because this gives me more reading enjoyment.
Hello Caroline
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to get in touch. I’m very pleased to learn that you enjoyed R&M#1 enough to go for #2. That’s great. I hope that #2 encourages you on to #3 etc.
I sincerely appreciate your kind words for my writing and ‘world building’. I enjoy the whole process.
Best wishes and thanks again.
I just finished Unhappy Families and you made me cry! And you surprised me! That’s a rare occurrence for me when reading mysteries. I’m impressed by your storytelling and characters. Thank you for entertaining me.
Hello Melissa,
Thanks for getting in touch. I hope you won’t mind me saying that you crying made me happy. What a powerful response. Thank you for sharing and thank you for your kinds words for my writing.
Best wishes to you. 🙂
I am currently reading R&M book 2, I got confused a little in chapter 7 when Marsh called Emerson to say the flat was all clear and West showed up? The first book was great and I am enjoying the second immensely. Keep up the he goo d work.
Hi Zoe
Good to know you’re enjoying the R&M Files. Thanks for sharing.
As for that phone call – Marsh wanted to lure LW to the flat, so she put on a bored civilian staff voice and phoned LW and called her Mrs Emerson so that LW would think the police had made a mistake in calling her and she could take advantage of that by nipping around to the flat. She fell for it and Marsh rumbled her. Hope this helps. 🙂
Best wishes.
Thanks, it does help; it could be that your mind is a lot moe devious than mine. Book 2 finished onto the next!
Hi Zoe
My pleasure. I can think of a couple of people who would agree with you about my mind: my ex-wife, my psychiatrist, the probation officer… just joking, of course. Thanks for the downloads. I hope #3 and the rest keep you entertained.
Best wishes.
Hi,
I have just finished the 6th Romney and Marsh book…Unhappy families. I thoroughly enjoyed them all . I have been unable to put these books down once i’v started to read them.Read this one in one sitting much to the disgust of my dog who missed out on her usual walk. Hope there are more to come .
Hello Olive
Many thanks for your time and trouble to leave such a great message regarding the R&M Files. Much appreciated, as are your downloads of the books. I’m really pleased to learn that you’ve enjoyed them. I had a lot of fun writing them. #7 is currently in post-production. Keep an eye on the blog here for a release date – maybe sometime in March.
Best wishes and thanks again.
PS My apologies to your dog. 🙂
Hi Oliver
I have read Romney and Marsh really enjoyed and Booker and Cash book one they are gripping and flowing keep researching and writing all the best.
Mick Barnes
Hi Mick,
Many thanks for your great and much appreciated comment. Really pleased to learn that you are enjoying the reads. Thank you. You’ve made my evening.
Best wishes.
Hello Oliver
Just read Unhappy Families. Another great read. Cried at sad bit. Love your writing. Love the characters in R&M series.Looking forward to 7 and to all the new ones in AS and the B&C seies.
AnneS
Hi Anne
Many thanks for your very encouraging comment and for your support of my writing. Much appreciated. Good to know that Unhappy Families touched you. It’s what writing is all about. (I cried too. Really.)
Best wishes.
Hi Oliver just finished Unhappy Families, brilliant job.Just about to read Three Short Blasts.Went to college at Lady well, worked on the Marsh,family from there so living down here in the west country lanes am able to recognise every place vividly in my mind from the prefabs to the Western docks.Thanks so much for theverything brilliant stories and for the personal nostalgia.
Hi John
Many thanks for your time and trouble to get in touch. Very pleased to learn that you enjoyed the reads, especially as you have that local knowledge. When I first thought about locating the series in Dover I was amazed to find nothing else set there. It’s a rich town for a writer to mine. I’ve enjoyed myself immensely. Here’s hoping that Three Short Blasts gives you some reading pleasure, also.
Best wishes and thanks again for your kind words.
I just completed your first Romney and Marsh book and enjoyed it for the most part. I have one, admittedly nitpicky, question: why does Romney continue to refer to Julie Carpenter throughout the book as “Julie Carpenter”? I’m not trying to be critical, I really would like your writer’s explanation for this. I have noticed this tendency in other books, usually written by a male author, and have wondered about it. It is very offputting to me. After a few chapters, as the relationship builds, and as there is no other ‘Julie’ in the story, why continue to repeat her last name? I repeat, I, who have never written anything, have no right to criticize, I’m just curious about your thoughts on this. Thanks for your time, I’m off to the next book to see if Julie Carpenter is still in the picture!
Hi Cindi
Thanks for getting in touch. It’s always good to hear from readers.
No problem for you to ask me about that ‘Julie Carpenter’ issue. 🙂
It’s quite a while since I last read this so I could be wrong, but does Romney refer to her as Julie Carpenter? I think it’s more likely it’s the narrator ie me.
I do understand what you’re saying. In the first draft she was just ‘Carpenter’ but I got complaints about that bluntness. Fair enough. I just felt that ‘Julie’ is too familiar. It didn’t work for me. It jarred. I’d always rather give the full name. It’s just a personal choice thing. 🙂
Hope that explains my choice.
Best wishes.
Thank you so much for taking the time to address my comment. It was very interesting to read about your thought process in relation to how to address Julie. I look forward to reading more of your books. Cindi.
My pleasure, Cindi. Anytime. I enjoy communicating with readers.
Best wishes
I have just read the first two Romney & Marsh books. Loved them. Will definitely be reading more of your novels. I have rated them both on Amazon.co.uk as I believe from other self published authors this is important to gaining visibility.
Hi Jane
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to let me know you enjoyed the reads and that you’ve left great Amazon feedback and ratings. All much appreciated. good to know that you enjoyed them. As you rightly say, it’s all especially important to us self-publishers.
Best wishes.
Hi Oliver, I don’t get much chance to read these days so it has taken me a while to finish reading Particular Stupidities but, each time, I came back to it expecting a pleasurable few minutes – and I was never disappointed. I loved it – the Spartacus bit toward the end was brilliant witty writing. I’m going to write a review and download the next. Thanks, and keep writing!
Hi Valerie,
Good to hear from you. I hope the writing is going well.
So glad you enjoyed PS. I had a lot of fun with that scene, and others. Thanks for your ongoing support. I hope you enjoy the next.
Best wishes
Hello, Mr. Tidy. I left a comment here after reading the first three books in the series, and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed them ALL (looking forward to the next. I only have two comments regarding “a certain dissatisfaction” (good title for a book?). I don’t understand why these books are called “The Romney And Marsh Series’ The two characters interact infrequently, and are of such different rant, that it feels to me, sometimes, that their relationship consists almost entire if Romneey bReaking; “Marsh? With me!” She doesn’t particularly like or respect him; in fact he, mostly, gets on her nerves. Romney is crass, bawdy, and a tad to eager to go “Off book”. To defy proper procedure if it gets results, even advising other coppers to “follow your own instincts, procedure be dampened. Don’t let “the rules” get in the way of a result.” This MO tarnished the behavior of others on his team, both infuriating Marsh, and misleading her, presenting a questionable example, inspiring in her her least effective police work. His suggestion, to another, troubled, colleague, even leads to disaster; a result noted by, and presented by Marsh. So, she does not admire or respect him, and he considers her “promising”, and little else. They are certainly not “partners” simply because they find themselves, with increasing regularity, in the same car. So, a question: Why HAVE you titled this series after their not-at-all-close, almost peripheral professional relationship? Other than that one head-scratcher, I very much enjoy the books and have subsequently bought them all, and will be moving into your other series after I have exhausted the “RandM Series (could not find the campervan on my keyboard). But, you are a “find”, and I shall continue finding your work as soon as new books are available.
Hi Keith
Many thanks for your comment. I always appreciate hearing from readers.
You understand the relationship (as it stands where you are in the series) well. They are almost complete opposites and there is not much affection between the two or on Marsh’s side much professional respect.
In answer to your question then: why did I title the series the R&M Files? The series kicks off when they are thrown together in a work situation. Initially, they don’t seem to like each other much. But, I like to think, as the series progresses their liking and professional respect grows to become something solid. Get to #7 and I hope I will have been able to make that clear. If not, I have failed the reader.
The series is essentially about crime in the Dover area. It has to be solved by the police. In Dover CID the two top officers are R&M. Like each other or not they must work together to solve the crimes, which they seem to do in the end.
There is one more reason why I have chosen to name this series The Romney and Marsh Files. It is a self-indulgence. I see, sir, that you are not from these shores (the UK) and so you may never have heard of a wonderful little place on the south coast of England called Romney Marsh. It’s just down the road from Dover. I was born and bred there. When I first had my idea to write these crime novels my lead detectives were not called Romney and Marsh. One day I was watching the news and Mitt Romney was being spoken about as a contender. (You will remember that I’m sure.) I remember thinking that Romney was a strong name. It is also a name that I cannot hear without instantly associating the word Marsh with it. I had my epiphany. I changed the names of my detectives and have never regretted it for a moment. My shoice has not been popular with all readers, but one of the joys of going it alone is that I make the decisions.
I thank you for your kind words for the books. Genuinely pleased that you are enjoying the series. Thanks for your feedback and support.
Best wishes.
Hi, Mr. Tidy. I have left two comments on your “Romney and Marsh Series”, and look VERY forward to your replies, but my comments don’t seem to “make the cut”. Both comments were made more recently than the comments listed here, and I don’t understand why they are not presented to YOU for a response. It is rare that we readers get to comment directly to an author, and I’ve been excitedly checking these pages… But “no me”. Are the comments considered by “your team” and only certain comments are passed on to you for a response? Or, do you receive all comments, but only choose to respond to the comments of your choosing? Maybe my comments just aren’t thought WORTH of a response? Or, maybe I am supposed to select a Social Media icon in order for my comments to register as having been made. A mystery about mysteries! LOVE the books, btw. Keith
Hi Keith,
Many thanks for your time and trouble to get in touch.
One of the things I enjoy most about what I’m doing is communicating with readers who get contact me about the reads. My writer’s maxim is ‘writers are nothing without supportive readers’.
I like the idea that I might have a team working for me, but I’m afraid it’s just me slaving away at my craft and the PR and the everything involved with being a self-publisher. (Am I the only one hearing violins?)
Anyway, to put your mind at rest (and mine) i did a bit of detective work myself and went in search of your comment. (The only comments I don’t approve are those from ex-wives and their lawyers demanding slices of my fortune.) I found it, sir!
You didn’t comment here. You commented on the link at the top of the home page titled ‘The Romney and Marsh Files Comments Page’ on March 21st. I did reply. You can find this if you go to the page mentioned, click on older posts and then scroll down towards the end of the page. I hope this clears things up.
I do value all reader feedback. Thanks again for yours and your ongoing support of the R&M Files.
Best wishes.
Loved White Knuckle Christmas Oliver. Equally as good as all the others. Love the characters in your books. Please tell me its not the last in the series? I want to know what happens to Joy?
Hi Simon, That’s great to know. Thank you.
I want to spend a bit of time trying a few other writing ideas, now. I’m still not sure whether R&M will ride again and if so when. I’ll take stock when I’ve satisfied my whims. As for Joy, I have no idea what’s going to happen there. Ideas on a postcard, please. 🙂
Best wishes.
Hi Oliver
I have just finished Unhappy Families and found it the best of the six, And they were all ouit good reads. I have also read the first 2 Booker & Cash books and the first 2 Acer Samson and enjoyed all of them So back to Amazon for me. all the best
Ernie
Hi Ernie
Many thanks for getting in touch to let me know you’re enjoying the reads. It’s always good and encouraging to learn the series are being enjoyed. Thank you for your support. All much appreciated.
Best wishes
Hi Oliver, I’ve never given an author feedback before but I’ve just read the first two Romney and Marsh novels and absolutely loved them. I have to admit that when I was looking at books for my kindle I was intrigued to find out that the novels were set in Dover (where I live) and that was partly why I downloaded the first one. It was amusing to come across various places in the town/area that I recognised when I was reading the books and I’ll forgive you for being truthful about the state of poor old Dover. However, that aside, I thought the stories were brilliant. The characters and plots are great and for the first time in ages, I’ve found a book I can’t put down. Today I was reading the end of the second book whilst stirring the dinner. I think the relationship between Romney and Marsh is compelling and although they do have their niggles with each other there is definitely a mutual respect. I look forward to reading more of your work. Best wishes, Chris Reid
Hi Chris,
Apologies for the delay of my reply. I’ve just come back to the UK for the summer. Did I say summer???
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to get in touch over the R&M Files. It’s always good to learn that a reader has discovered them and enjoyed.
I spent quite a bit of time in Dover a few years ago. I enjoyed myself. I think the town has so much history and places of interest to offer. It really needs investment and some TLC. DI Romney likes it too, but he moans a lot. About everything.
Readers seem to interpet R&M’s relationship in a number of different ways. I recently had a reader tell me that they obviously ‘don’t like each other’. I think that, as you say, they have that mutual respect with some personal resevations. They make a good team. I look forward to seeing what you think of the following books if and when you get around to them. And how you feel about R&M’s feelings towards each other by the end. I’m happy with the way things turned out. 🙂
All the best and thanks again.
Another smashing read Oliver ,looking forward to new acer and b and c any idea on release dates , all the best ian
Hi Ian,
Many thanks. Good to know you enjoyed read.
Acer#4 is with Amazon’s editing services. I hope that will be out in May sometime.
I’m working on B&C #3. The end is in sight. Maybe June for that one. Fingers crossed.
Best wishes.
Hi Oliver – my wife and I are off to Rye tomorrow for a short break. I’ve just come to the end of a James Patterson book so, in your honour, I’m taking ‘Three Short Blasts’ with me to read if I get any time.
All the best…
James
Hi James,
Rye is very nice. I’m due a visit soon. Maybe when the weather warms up.
I hope TSB provides you some reading pleasure. Thanks.
Enjoy your trip.
Best wishes
Hi Oliver just wanted to say I’ve now read all your books and I’ve not been disappointed with any of them…i first became hooked on Romney and Marsh for the obvious reason I’m a Dovorian born and bred…but since then I’ve gone on the read them all….Acer is absolutely fab and would make a great films or tv thriller…Booker and Cash another great partnership…can’t wait till the next books out and please not to long for another R&M they really are like extended family I’ve got to know so well….thanks again Oliver your a truly gifted writer….in fact I haven’t read any other author for about a year 😊
Hi Susan
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to get in touch over the reads. Your support, kind words and downloads of my books are all sincerely appreciated. I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed them. I have a lot of fun writing them all.
Acer #4 is in post-production and will sonn be ready. B&C#3 is well advanced, too. But I have a lot of DIY I need to be getting on with for the next few weeks, so, sadly, the writing is taking a back seat. Still, variety is the spice of life and all that. 🙂
Best wishes and thanks again. You’ve made my day.
Hi, Oliver. Just been sent the link to my Kindle Scout copy of Deep State. Feel a tad mean that I have not had to pay for this so just wanted to say thanks! I am in Dymchurch in June – If I see you about, I promise to buy you a coffee!
Have a lovely day
Hi Deborah
Thanks for your thoughtful message. Much appreciated. I hope you enjoy the read. 🙂
Best wishes
Hi, just finished rope enough,excellent read,and lively character’s. Have read other’s reviews/comments,and can see their point on the use of Christian names,but would like to add that i saw that as a quirk in Romney’s makeup,and i knew of a serving officer with the same trait(retired now),so the character was real to me. Will download the others and look forward to more easy enjoyable reading,keep up with this exellent work,makes my life easier when i can pick up quality reads,without having to search too much, best regards for your future endeavours,Ian Wright.
Hi Ian,
Many thanks for your time and trouble to get in touch over the read. Much appreciated, as are your encouraging words. Good to know that you enjoyed the first R&M File. I hope the others in the series, please you as much.
Best wishes
Hello Oliver Tidy. Received my Deep State copy through Kindle Scout. Devoured it. Loved it. Left a review.
Anne,
So glad you enjoyed Deep State and thank you very much for your wonderful comment and rating on Amazon. Sincerely appreciated.
Best wishes
Write faster! I’ve run out of Romney & Marsh books! 🙂 Thanks so much for the great reads – it’s nice to have a lead who is something of a jackass, instead of the goody-goodies we see too often.
Hi Carol, Thanks for taking the time and trouble to get in touch. Great to know that you’ve enjoyed the R&M Files. Romney certainly has his issues. 🙂
Best wishes
PS Writing faster now.
Hi Oliver. Just wanted to say how very much I enjoyed Rope Enough. Reads do not get much better than this. Loved the characters but loved the plot even more. Romney is my kind of cop! I’m looking forward to making a reacquaintance with R and M. Thank you.
Hi Rob, Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to get in touch. Much appreciated. It’s always good to learn that the books are being read and enjoyed. Romney comes in for some stick from some readers, so it’s nice to have him acknowledged positively. I hope that #2 doesn’t disappoint.
Best wishes.
Have read two Booker and Cash books and now the first two in the Romney Marsh series.
I really enjoyed the first Booker and Cash; the second was good but not great.
I really enjoyed the first Romney Marsh book. The second, Making a Killing was fabulous.
How you have not been signed with a major publisher is beyond me.
Looking forward to reading more of your books.
All the best
Geoff. Perth. Western Australia
Hi Geoff
Thanks for your comment.
Great to know that the reads are being enjoyed across the other side of the world – the wonders of modern technology and Amazon’s Kindle.
Competition for an agent, let alone a publisher, is intense and the genre I write in is saturated with outstanding writing. I’m happy with the way things have gone for me, so far. And I thank you for your kind words and vote of confidence.
I hope that the rest of the R&M Files continue to reward your investment in them.
Best wishes and thanks again.
Hi, I have just finished Rope Enough and thoroughly enjoyed it, just about to download the second in the series and have a feeling I’ll enjoy it just as much. You definitely have a new reader to add to your list. Thank you, I’m looking forward to the rest of the series
Hi Dale
Many thanks for sharing your thoughts here. I really appreciate hearing from readers of my books. I sincerely hope that #2 in the series doesn’t disappoint. Thank you.
Best wishes
I have just been on Amazon to buy another of your books and I find that I have read them ALL! That is not good, will have to find something else to read now. Loved them, thank you.
Hi Jane,
Your news has put a smile on my face. Consider yourself part of an exclusive club. Thanks for your support. I wish I could say when the next one will be out but I have no idea. I’m a bit bogged down in DIY at the moment. Sigh.
Best wishes.
I’ve just finished Enough rope. It was gripping from start to finish! Great job x
Hi Tammy,
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to let me know. Much appreciated. Glad you enjoyed the read.
Best wishes
Hi Just finished Rope Enough, a very enjoyable read, liked the twist of two rapists working together almost all the way through the book I was thinking copycat,I will certainly be reading all the Romney & Marsh books.
Thanks & Kind Regards
Hi James,
Many thanks for taking the time and trouble to get in touch. It’s always good to learn that the R&M Files are being enjoyed. If and when you get to the next in the series, I hope it doesn’t disappoint.
Best wishes
Dear Oliver
What can I say, I downloaded the first couple of Romney and Marsh books for my kindle a few weeks ago, but I am now through all 7 of them, the 2 Booker & Cash novels and have just started the Acer Samson #1. I have thoroughly enjoyed all but if I continue at is pace you will need to be writing much more profusely.
Once again thanks for rekindling my love of crime thrillers.
John
Hi John,
Many thanks for your very kind and supportive message. I’m so pleased to learn that you’ve enjoyed the reads. I had a lot of fun writing them. It’s great to think that the stories have given your crime thriller interest a shot in the arm.
Best wishes.