Kevin McLeod

I was born and raised in Scotland. To be precise I was born in Hamilton in 1975. (a year my oldest daughter thinks is close to around the time Vikings invaded Britian; that's how old her dad is.) Then when I was very young we moved to Dunblane where I spent most of my years until I was roughly 20. After some traveling around I have landed back in Hamilton with my two amazing daughters. They do say you always go back to where it all started one day. Having had two personal brushes with death; both far too early in my life if you are asking for my opinion. I decided it was time to follow my dreams, not be afraid anymore and let my creative side out. I have always loved writing and have written many short stories. One day I will publish these stories (re-written and tidied up of course) for everyone else to read. I knew in my heart that I wanted to write a novel and I had many ideas competing to be first out the hat.(I have to wear a hat these days, I am bald and it gets cold in Scotland) I did write a book, as yet untitled, but chose not to release it after I had the idea for The Viking's Apprentice. This new idea grabbed me and I began writing. Inspired by my daughters, I wanted to write a story they could read and enjoy sooner rather than later. A story aimed at younger readers, but that could be enjoyed by everyone. Two years of hard work, re-writes, edits and learning about the industry came to fruition when the Viking's Apprentice was released on Amazon on March 28th 2013. I am so thankful for everyone who helped and supported me throughout the creation of The Viking's Apprentice. I am grateful for the new friends I have met on the journey. My proudest moment as an author so far came when a school teacher contacted me to say that my book, The Viking's Apprentice, had inspired a 10 year old non reader to begin reading. This child went from hating reading time and not joining in to looking forward to it and being unhappy on days when my book was not being read. I have since had the chance to visit that school and speak with the teacher and all the children who read my book. A great experience for me and one that I am very grateful for. I am now working on book 5 in the series whilst still trying to convince my daughters that I am not 'ancient'.