"Hi Freya,

Thanks for your e-mail and for coming to the event in Richmond on Tuesday night. It was nice to see you again.

In terms of publishing a list of my events, yes that is fine. Once vampirates.co.uk is relaunched, we'll have a much stronger NEWS section in which to mention such events in advance. Bear in mind that the Richmond Library one was primarily intended for their invitees plus a sprinkling of other locals, but I do take your general point about this.

Any queries about foreign publication dates are best referred to me at the e-mail (see vampirates.co.uk) as I can check these out with the relevant rights people. This is not a service you need to offer!

Re: DEMONS, what makes you think that Jamie is a vampire?! We'll be revisiting the kitchen setting in the new book, BLACK HEART.

Re: DARCY, there's a fan online using her identity in a role-playing game, illustrated with a picture of silent-movie actress Clara Bow. I think that she would look like Clara Bow, or Louise Brooks or Zelda Fitzgerald, very much out of that flapper era.

Re: LADY LOCKWOOD, yes in part she is inspired by "The Wicked Lady". Indeed the fact that she is called Lockwood is in part a tribute to Margaret Lockwood who plays the part of the highwaywoman in the movie.

Best wishes,
Justin Somper

The notice board at my son's (Powder Monkey Black William Flint) school had a notice on it that I think you may be interested in.

"Richmond Upon Thames Libraries and The Lion & Unicorn Bookshop invite you to launch the National Year of Reading with Justin Somper author of the vampirate series.

Kick off the National Year of Reading in style with Justin Somper, celebrated author of the Vampirates series. There will be a talk, followed by Q&A and book signing. Tuesday 29th April, 7pm. Richmond Lending Library, Little Green (next to Richmond Theatre), Richmond, TW9 1QL. Tel 020 8940 0981

This free event is open to all - no booking required." Please see http://www.richmond.gov.uk/home/leisure_and_culture/libraries/ypls_home/news_events.htm for more information.