14 minutes ago2 min read

New Year, New Plans, Independent Minds

The start of a new year is always exciting with the opportunity to look forward rather than back. This year my publishers, SpellBound Books Ltd, bestselling author Denise Beddows and I have grasped this opportunity.

Having looked at many book festivals, writing retreats and writing schools we have decided that we could do something different, giving authors, readers and bloggers a new focus for their year.

Therefore we are planning the Independent Minds Festival. The inaugural event will take place in London the summer of 2026. Organisation is well under way, so let me give you a flavour of what's to come.

Denise Beddows, Nikki East, Sumaira Wilson and Val Penny giving us full control of an event to showcase SpellBound authors in terms of appearing on panels, running workshops and moderating panels. Of course we will also give opportunities to plenty of additional indie authors and artists.

We have no doubt that this festival led by four women with decades of experience in the writing and publishing industries will not only be exciting but also provide opportunities to learn, network and relax with like-minded people. We will also run a bookshop for contributing authors where all sales receipts go directly to those authors.

So believe me when I say we are thrilled to bring you INDEPENDENT MINDS a brand new, 2 day London based festival coming in Summer 2026, dedicated entirely to the vibrant world of independent Authors, Publishers & Artists.

Forget stuffy literary gatherings; founded by four women, 2 Indie Publishers & 2 Best Selling Indie authors, IM aims to be a community hub, fostering connections between writers and readers, offering workshops and panels that delve into the intricacies of Indie publishing and providing a platform for unheard voices to finally find their tribe.