As some of you may know, I have not just worked in the arts as an actor and writer, I also trained as an engineer. I’ve studied basic engineering, electronics, electrical and security installations and also the testing and inspection of such work. The current “day job” has kept me going on my quest to be a full-time artist. I must admit, it has taken me a lot longer than I thought it would do…
Some of my clients, whilst I was there installing alarm systems, CCTV or upgrading their electrical installations, would often ask me what I did in my spare time, which would lead me into discussing the books I write.
Very kindly, some would buy books from Amazon to find out what they were all about. But one such client went over and above just acknowledging my work with a simple review on Goodreads.
Over the period of a few weeks, I had completed some electrical work for a German lady called Martina Cubbidge. During this time, Martina had found out about my books and had begun reading them. By the time I had finished, Martina had read all of the books I had published to date.
When she asked if I had any other books in the pipeline I told her about the next thrilling adventure from my Christopher Daring series: The Secret Puzzle Box. Thankfully, with much enthusiasm, Martina requested an advanced read. So, still to be released, I allowed Martina a sneak preview of the book — a little like a beta reader*.
Not only did Martina read the book, but she gave me the most fabulous feedback.
And, as if that wasn’t enough, to my absolute amazement, Martina decided to create the most incredible piece of art, in homage to the book. Just looking at the creativity, the intricacy, the attention to detail — I was blown away!
Also, inside the lid was a small parchment with a wax seal. Within the elegantly written message, were some words of inspiration that I want to share: “This is the manifestation, the channeling of thoughts and feelings into matter.” And it certainly is!
Take another look at the image (click to enlarge), and I’m sure you will agree that she is a tremendously talented woman!
Without reading the book yourself, it might be hard for you to grasp just how clever she has been, in terms of what she has alluded to in using the various brass items.
The usual theme of codes and riddles is woven within the pages, but this book also delves into another topic, that of STEAMPUNK. If you are not familiar with this genre, then check it out. It is a fascinating fusion of steam-powered engineering set in the Victorian era.
Here is one of the images from the book, created by the highly talented artist Dawn Larder, who has created a plethora of images for me throughout my various books.
So, as the book contains cogs and wheels, steampunk creatures and a mysterious puzzle box, I think you can now start to see just what Martina was referring to when she created the homage box pictured above.
I really ought to call Martina’s amazing box: the Secret Paean Box, which would actually be more fitting. One of the definitions of the word “Paean” means: “a creative work expressing enthusiastic praise”. Despite the strange word originating from the late 16th century, I think it is very apt.
So my message to you, Martina, is: I am very glad that this last Christopher Daring outing: The Secret Puzzle Box, inspired you into creating such a wonderfully iconic gift. Thank you once again! You are an inspiration to us all…!
Happy readings…
Stephen
*Beta reader = someone who reads a work of fiction before it is published, to check for any errors and make any suggestions to improve the work.