On Saturday, August 1st, I attended the National Play Day event at the Marine Hall, Fleetwood, Lancashire. There were lots of attractions, including a talent competition, and it was a really good day out for families. So if you didn’t go this time, give it a try next year.
My part was easy. I was there with Tony Higginson from Pritchards Bookshop, Formby and we sold copies of the Spook’s books and also signed any that readers brought along with them. I met lots of old friends including Jaclyn and Karen from the Paul Nicholas School of Acting and also met lots of new people including two ladies from the Fleetwood Library – so now I hope to do an event there in September. Whilst signing, one reader said to me: “Wish Tom a happy birthday for me
on Monday!” I was caught out for a moment then I realised that Tom Ward’s birthday is August, 3rd. I chose that date because it’s the actual birthday of two of my children, Paul and Joanne, who are twins. So a happy birthday to all three of them!
And now I’ll try to deal with some of the questions raised in reaction to my blogs. I haven’t got time to do them all but here goes…
The new covers?
Some readers love them, but there’s certainly been a mixed reaction. I do feel sorry for those readers who feel let down because they can’t complete their set in the old style.
The truth is, I like both types of cover. And these decisions are not mine but are made by my publisher. Their job is to package the books in such a way that sales will increase and they tell me it’s working…
But I have spoken to them and they’re looking into publishing a Limited Collectors’ Edition of The Spook’s Sacrifice in the late autumn which will feature an ‘old look’ cover, so fingers crossed for that. So let’s wait and see.
When will the next books be out?
‘Spooks Stories: Witches’ will be published, October 1st 2009. These stories will also be published in the USA with a different name and at a later date.
‘The Spook’s Nightmare’ will be out June, 2010.
‘The Spook’s Bestiary’ will be out October, 2010.
Will you use my name in your book?
I will look at all names submitted and will certainly use any that are ‘different’ and suited to the genre and the Spook’s World.
Will I go to Ireland to sign and talk?
Yes. I will be there October 5th to October 10th, 2009, starting in Dublin and moving southwest towards Kerry. The trip is being planned now by Tom from Children’s Books Ireland.
Spook’s Maps?
As far as I know there has been no really detailed map drawn of the full Spook’s County. The nearest so far was the one produced by Lancashire Library Services. They took a very old map of Lancashire and highlighted places such as Caster and Pendle. It was very good and I still have a copy on my study wall.
Romania?
This is mainly for the Romanian readers and their Wardstone Chronicles Blogs and forums but may be of interest to other readers. At the moment I plan to link the plot of Book Nine to Romania. Book Eight is likely to be set in Ireland because Tom and the Spook are in the Isle of Man in Book Seven and it makes good plot sense to sail further west for the next adventure, particularly as to return to the County then is very dangerous (won’t say why because I don’t want to give away too much). I am already collecting ideas for the Romanian book and have done some research on the witches and vampires there (nothing to do with Dracula!) which as usual I’ll change to make it part of the Spook’s world. At some point before that I’d like to return to Romania, particularly Transylvania, to look at the landscape again and do some talks and book signings.
Where do I get my inspiration from?
The ideas for my books come from nightmares, dreams and day-dreams which I always jot down lest I forget them. Sometimes I’m inspired by the things that people say or do or a piece of town or countryside I see whilst out walking. I do more ‘writing’ in my head than I ever do on paper or type into my computer.
I hope that helps for now.
Best wishes,
Joseph Delaney
August 5th, 2009 at 6:59 pm
I really love both book covers, I buy all of them because of the nice covers !
They new cover is so nice that i will frame them and have it on the wall!
I am really looking forward to read your new books!
/Your number one fan from Sweden
Magnus
August 5th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
hi there, thanks for writing in your blog, i must say i am becomming a bt worrying as i check your blog every other day to see if you have written yet
i am a bit gutted as all the places you have been just lately and i have been working on those days! 
i am dying to get my books signed by you and also of course to shake your hand and thank you for the excellent reads 
i will have to wait a lil longer i suppose, will be worth it i am sure 
so when are you coming back to lancaster again?
i am also really gutted as i have just read the above comments and i thought your next book was out oct 2009
last question before i go, do you have any good books you can reccomend to read? i am getting a bit stuck at mo. i am in and out of a couple of clive barkers (which are good) and have also read the twilight books (which are also good) do you have any suggestions? just need something to keep me going until your the next books out
with loads of thanks!!
and cant wait to meet you!!
nicola donaghey (big fan!!)
August 5th, 2009 at 10:51 pm
We are really disappointed that the books come out later in the U.S. the they do in U.K. You should come tour in the U.S. (specifically in State College Pennsylvanian). We think you are tied for first as the best author in the world (that is a big accomplishment)!
-Bailey and Tori
P.S. Long live Tibb!!!!!!
August 6th, 2009 at 2:40 am
By chance I got The Spooks Apprentice out on audio book from the library, I have books and nursery rhythms on during the day for my son (3yrs) and I to listen to while we’re doing other things. I listen them first to ensure they are okay to play and I got hooked on the series.
I have now read five in the series and I’m waiting for the sixth to come into the library. When I can afford it I am going to buy the complete collect for my son, I just love books and your series is BRILLIANT. Upon becoming a mother I shied away for the really violent, abusive crime novels I’d been reading in the past and was looking for a more interesting alternative.
When reading The Spooks Apprentice you are transported to another time, you become close to the characters and part of the story. I didn’t find myself second-guessing or even knowing in advance what was going to happen, (as adult crime fiction is so predictable). I found myself dying to know what’s going to happen next, while a nice old scare at the same time.
I have been telling my young nephews and nieces all about the series in the hope they would be inspired to pickup a book.
THANKS again for the great read, they definitely give Harry Porter a run for its money, can’t wait for the films.
Regards,
Trish.
August 6th, 2009 at 4:12 pm
Heyy, iam a 13 year old boy from england and i love the wardstone chronicles because i can imagine myself in toms position and wish i could be him. I would also like to thank you for the books because before i read the spooks i hated reading i found it pointless and boring but now all i ever do is read ive read all the books and re read about 3 times loll
and i think you are the best author of all time but i am a bit dissapointed with the covers they look good but i prefer the original because it actually looks like toms notebooks but however people shouldnt make a fuss and think about why they bought the book … TO READ IT. so i shall read either way. Also i couldnt find a place to submit my name for a character in the book so i was wondering if i could submit it here, anyway you my hero (along with tom ward of course) cant wait for the other books
Yours faithfully,
Your number one fan and will read the books always,
Glen Church
August 6th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
Heyy forgot to write in the last comment the reason why i think my name should be in the book my reasons are: my name isnt very common its different also i think it would go well in one of the books
Yours faithly,
Your number one fan and will read the books always,
Glen Church
August 6th, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Continuation from comment above: it would mean the world to me and it would be truly an honour to have my name my favourite book of all time.
Yours faithfully,
Your number one fan will read the books always,
Glen Church
August 6th, 2009 at 6:35 pm
First off I agree with Bailey and Tori, you should come to the US (southeast region). I’m a huge fan of your work and have managed to get most of my friends hooked on the series as well. That being said I was wondering if you could give us an update on the progress of the movie. I know it has it’s on blog, but it hasn’t been updated in a while. Just curious; I really want my friends who don’t enjoy reading to have the chance to enjoy these stories.
Your Dedicated Fan,
Vernon Ealey
August 6th, 2009 at 9:47 pm
Wooo your coming to Ireland and book 8 in Ireland!
I have being dying tot ell you in person, how impressed I ahve being with the books and well get them signed hehe
I most certainly will be looking forward to you coming here
I had no idea there was going to be that number of books though…And well I am shocked, and beyond happy :D:D:D I already know the final showdown with the Fiend will be icredible!Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Your faithful leprachaun fan,
Stephen
August 8th, 2009 at 7:21 am
Hello Mr. Delaney I just wanted to say that I have enjoyed your series SOOO much, and have actualy told all of my friends to read it, so now we are all hooked on your series! haha
I can’t wait to read your next book, i am soo looking forward to the book with it’s setting in Romania, I think that you should come to the U.S. (in California) to do a book tour I know a bunch of people who love your books and whould be honered to meet you ( including Me!) Thank you for all of the good reads 
EXTREMELY BIG FAN!
-Xochitl
August 9th, 2009 at 2:35 am
Wow i’m really looking forward for those books, currently i’m finishing The Spooks: Battle on the part where the three covens summon Old Nick AKA “Mr red”. i absolutely love The Wardstone chronicles and i had a few questions i’ll list:
A. where did the idea of the lamia witches come from? “more detail too”
B. the upcoming movie hopefully will show the best parts of the book as i hope it wont be a book killer like the movie Inkheart did to its readers. will there be a sneak trailer anytime soon?
C. i live in israel and i love your work i just wish more could recognize a good book by its inside and not by its cover, on the i would ask if the books will be translated to hebrew.
D. where did you get the inspiration for the catch phrase,
“its hard work but some one has to do it”, from?
you most loyal reader
Dave from Israel wishing you to not give up since some one has to do it!
August 9th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
Hi could you tell me were your going to be in Ireland.
August 9th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
hi can you come down to salisbury or The Trafalagar School at Downton wich is my school and sighn some of are spooks Sacrifice books or gine them out and talk and answers qeastons we might have can you tell me what boook 7 might be called tank you so vary much if find time to do this for us
August 9th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Grrrr….i cant wait till october 2010!!! haha
i was wonderin where in ireland you’ll be coming to in ireland??
i luv all ur books and cant wait 4 the “Nightmare” :):)….im 13 by the way:P
see you wen you come 2 Ireland,
Sean!!! :D:D
August 9th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
hey pretty cool, but still waiting on the film news
x
August 10th, 2009 at 9:45 am
Hi, I can’t wait to read the new books, could you mention Garstang in one of the books? Also, when will there be any more film news/trailers available?
August 10th, 2009 at 11:03 am
any new film news yet
August 10th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Hello, after reading the wardstone chronicles over and over again i have found that they are the best books around! The books are getting darker and darker. Many of my family have read the series and found it amazing. The film is going to be amasing, when it eventually comes out lol. Thanks for all your hard work.
Best of luck,
M.J.B
August 10th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
hi , thanks for replying to my last comment , i still cant believe you’re coming to Ireland. I CANT WAIT . Can you please put my name in book 8? , if I was an irish spook or something big , i would be so happy. hope to see you in Dublin , your biggest fan Ryan Brennan. ps. cant wait for spooks nightmare.
August 10th, 2009 at 10:39 pm
Hi, I’m 15 and I love the wardstone chronicles!! I think I prefer the old covers but the new ones are cool too. It’s the stories I buy them for anyway not just the cover. I’d like to suggest my own name for a future book(s): Kieran Riddell (pronounced Kee-er-ran Rid-ell) there are variations in spelling but just to appear would be great (my middle nam’s Matthew if you don’t like Kieran). Kieran is an Irish name meaning ‘Black’ ‘darkness’ or ’small dark one’; and Riddell is traceable to the Normans (Riddells were the Barons of Blay) and also has Gaelic roots in Ireland and Scotland. I’ll be counting the days to the new books!
By the way have you thought about faeries, pixies and leprechauns for book 8 in Ireland? maybe in a feral or plain irritating form? Just a suggestion.
Thank you for all the great books and all those yet to come!!
Kieran Riddell
August 10th, 2009 at 10:47 pm
sorry to double post. will you be notifying us of who’s names are being used?
Sorry for the info overload I’m quite keen, but I’ll just add the odd coincidence of my name meaning black and me having naturally jet black hair. Weird isn’t it!
August 12th, 2009 at 1:10 am
Hi i love your books and so does my little sister so when we had finished the first book i said to my little sister wouldnt it be great if they brought out a film about it, and a couple of days ago when i finished then i finished the 6th book i looked on your website and it turns out that you are,your books ive ever read and i cant wait until the spooks night mare comes out.
All the best, sarah.
P.S my little sister says HI!
August 12th, 2009 at 1:30 am
sorry the last comment i left didnt make much sense.i just meant i was jumping for joy when
i found out you were making a film about the spooks apprentice and I LOVE ALL YOUR SPOOKS BOOKS!!!
cant wait until the next one comes out.
All the best sarah.
P.S i would be very grateful if you would write back.
August 12th, 2009 at 9:46 pm
I love your books very much. I would like to meet you one day. Can you think if my name is any good for a book I would like that
Thankyou very much
Connall from Wales
August 13th, 2009 at 9:03 pm
Hi!
Great books, the best i’ve read in ages!
The bissness seems so real with all that information and maps!
CANT wait for your books in 2010!
your BIGGEST fan,
Isaac
August 14th, 2009 at 10:59 am
hello i am a long time fan being buy the book since the beginning sry but i dont like the newcovers and love the old ones they give it a rustic feeling please release them in the old covers hope to buy the new one this week end
August 14th, 2009 at 4:12 pm
Dear Mr. Joseph DeLaney,
My name is Paul, I’m from Romania, I’m 16 and I’ve read almost all the Wardstone Chronicles books, I just bought the Spook’s Sacrfice, I ordered them from the U.K., I wanted to read them in the original language, I was very happy when I saw that you came in Romania, unfortunately, I didn’t make it to the autograph session in Brasov.Could you please tell me about when will you visit Transylvania, I got some ideas about our folklore that perhaps you could use in the new books.
Best wishes, Paul.
August 15th, 2009 at 5:45 am
Mr. Delaney, I would just like to tell you that I LOVE your books. I have read the 1st, 3rd, and 4th installments so far(will get to the rest as soon as humanly possibly) and I have read them each in one sitting, without stopping. I have never done that before with any book before and it really shows how great a writer you are and what an amazing series of books you have created. I know that they are often billed as children books, but the wardrobe chronicles appeal to all ages(I’ve just turned 19). I’ve read Tolkien and the Harry Potter series and I can honestly say that I feel more connected to your characters and more intrigued by the story than either of them, please continue your efforts
Speaking of being connected to your characters, I am especially close to Alice. I don’t mean to persuade you not to write what you already have in mind, but I pray that her and Tom do not end up like Mr. Gregory and Meg. Happy endings are the best in my opinion and I hope that her and Tom can find one….Tibb’s prediction in book 4 had me very depressed and I hope that it does not play out like it seems like it will.
Thank you for writing everything you have done so far and I eagerly await all of your future writings. I live in America by the way, so don’t think that your only fans are in Europe!
August 15th, 2009 at 6:43 am
i am a diehard fan that would probably spend all my savings to go to england just to shake your hand mr.delaney. you’re work is too brilliant for words. i hope you consider the name ‘ariana’ in one of your books.
you’re even bigger than the biggest fan,
ariana s.g
August 16th, 2009 at 10:12 pm
I really looked forward to reading the new book (Spook’s sacrafice) but it’s only come out in the new covers, is it going to come out in the original ones aswell? ‘Cause I really wanna buy it
August 17th, 2009 at 1:18 am
Mr Delancy,
I know this post doesn’t have anything to do with your blog, well not really, but as this is the best way I thought to contact you, I decided to have a go.
I’m sixteen years old and have always had a love for fantasy stories. So much, that I thought I’d have a go myself but it isn’t going great. I have five ideas for stories (and counting), but as soon as I write the beginning of one, another idea comes into my head. I also get most of my ideas from dreams and nightmares, and can never make new ones fit with old ideas.
I was wondering if there was any advice you could give me, which could help my over active imagination concentrate on finishing at least one book
Also, if there was any advice on getting it published because I’ve done a bit of research and most publishing companies will not accept anyone under the age of eighteen ( which I think is a tad unfair myself
)
Thank you !
And to add what other people have posted, I’m proud to say I’m a big fan of the Wardstone Chronicles and well done to your success
Amie Chambers.
August 17th, 2009 at 3:32 am
If Tom,the Spook & Alice(hopefully) are going to Ireland, perhaps they could visit Mag Slecht(sp?),the “Plain of Prostration” and have to deal with the ancient Irish god Crom Cruach who was supposedly exorcised by St Patrick. With the Fiend on the loose, all sorts of ancient evils could be stirring again. Just a thought.
August 17th, 2009 at 7:25 am
Dear Mr Delaney
I am a boy of 15 from New Zealand and I see you have given your new book ‘The Spooks Apprentice’ a new cover page. I have been reading them scince they first came out and go crazy when any new books come out. The only problem is I heard your only going to be publishing a 1000 copies of ‘The Spooks Sacrifice’ with the old cover and the chances of me getting one of those is very unlikly as I am all the way from New Zealand. Although I was very lucky last time to be the first in New Zealand to buy ‘The Spooks Mistake.’ I have collected the whole series with the old cover so it would be very pleasing to add a new colour to it.I will not be able to buy it online either as my parents won’t let me. If it is possible, would you be able to give me some advice on how to get this book.
Your Kiwi Fan
Stefan Wypych
(P.S. Do not know if my name will be of any assistance in the writing of your books but will be absolutly awsume. It is Polish by the way.)
August 17th, 2009 at 12:24 pm
will you go to salisbury waterstone that whoud mean so muchh to me if you coud
thank you for think great ideas
August 17th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
I just found this series on Amazon and will definitely be ordering them to read. My sister and I love YA novels. My mother boughts C.S Lewis, Tolkien for us as children, and as adults we’ve read Colfer, Rowling, etc. I love historical/myster adult fiction, but children’s fantasy books are so imaginative. I can’t wait to read your books…and I have to wonder if my mother has heard of them…She might need to tell her university library to order them:)
Thanks!
August 19th, 2009 at 12:44 am
Dear Mr. Genius,
Thanks for the great news: that ‘Spooks Stories: Witches’ will be out here in the U.S. but under a different name and at a later date. I am hoping that it isn’t too much later- maybe by Xmas at least?
I am so looking forward to that book and can’t wait to get the 6th book over here next week!
I’m going to keep polite and not ask about the movie. As it may be still in the works. I CANT wait, im counting down the days to another one of your masterpieces.
August 19th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
With rgards to the film, I myself feel that the age of the cahracters should be increased. I know in the books Tom and Alice start out as 13, but for the sakie of filming, I myself think it would be more interesting if they were 16 or 15 as it would make the film more exciting, not that the books aren’t exciting enough. What do you think? And anyone else who leaves a comment cam reply about mine
August 19th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
With regards to the film, I myself feel that the age of the characters should be increased. I know in the books Tom and Alice start out as 13, but for the sake of filming, I myself think it would be more interesting if they were 16 or 15 as it would make the film more exciting, not that the books aren’t exciting enough. What do you think? And anyone else who leaves a comment, reply about mine with your thoughts
August 19th, 2009 at 5:54 pm
Dear Mr.Delaney
Your books are fantastic! I discovered them from my auntie, who has just got the 5th book. After reading The spooks apprentice for 2minutes I was immediatley hooked!! The plot is scary but at the same time exciting. Im reading The Spooks curse at the moment. Cant belive toms mam is a witch!!
Cant wait to read the rest of the books!!
x Emily Aldred :)(12years old)
p.s Please could you enclude my name in one of your books? Not sure if it is spookish enough, but its worth a try!!
August 21st, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Dear Mr Delaney
This letter is from your number one fan in Eastern Europe. Your books are amazing we had an assignment to read a book in English class so i found the Spook’s Apprentice on the internet and I ordered it. IT IS BY FAR THE MOST AMAZING BOOK I HAVE EVER READ!! I have just finished the fifth book in the series and i can’t wait for more. Also i wish you had kept to the old covers which i thought were really awesome.
p.s. Could you please include my name in one of your books?? I am a boy by the way, i am aware that Nikola is a girl’s name in England but it is a boy’s name here and i think that it would go great in your ninth book in the series since it is set in Romania.
August 23rd, 2009 at 4:47 am
We’re waiting with baited breath for a special release of the Sacrifice in Autumn!
That would be really cool especially if they match the old set. We have all the books so far.
The stories are brilliant!!!!
Can’t wait……
August 24th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
Dear Mr Delaney
How much “Spook”books are you planning to write?
First I thought you just write seven books, but now I have seen, you plan to write nine or even more than nine books! (You wrote it in the text “Romania?”: “At the moment I plan to link the plot of Book Nine to Romania.”)
Please give me an answear, but don´t be too complicated, because I´m German!^^
One more thing I have to say to you: Until yet, there are the first four “Spook”books in German language, but now they don´t plan to translate the following books!!! That´s very pity for me and the rest of your German readers! Please try to make them translate your books into German, so I am able to understand EVERY scene!
Your German Fan
Clemens Gattuso
PS: If you please could include my name in one of your books?? That would be fantastic. Good luck and much ideas!
August 25th, 2009 at 7:42 am
Hi,I am George.I am from Romania.I admire your work and I’m looking forward for the next book.:)
August 26th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
Dear Mr Joseph Delaney,
I love your books and I read every book since the “Spook’s Apprentice” came out.
I am from Romania and I was just wondering when you’ll visit Romania again ?
Love your work,
Adrian
August 26th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
I discovered ‘The Spooks Books’ by pure accident at a school fundraising day. I bought the first two books for 50p… signed first editions no less! woohoo! I bought these in preparation of summer holiday reading for my daughter (now 12)… needless to say - when my digestion of books had depleted whilst on holiday - i started to read the my daughters….
OMG!! I haven’t been able to put ANY of them down… more over - now that we are back in the UK - my copy of Spooks Sacrafice arrived today and i’m delighted! All my books are first editions, and I will be heading to Waterstones/Borders to see if I can order/or be notified of the old original dust jacket/cover versions. JKR did it with the publication of the HP Books, adult(?) and childrens dustjackets. I would much prefer to collect the originals.
Well done Joseph on a wonderful set of literature… the best read i’ve had for a very long time (and i’m approaching 40!)…. can’t believe that i only discovered your works and the ’spook’s books’ by accident!
Thanks again!
August 27th, 2009 at 6:03 pm
It`s an honour for me to hear that you are going to write a book with the action set in Romania.I`d suggest you sir to type in on wikipedia the word `strigoi` or `moroi`.They both reffer to ghosts that can`t get to the other side usually because they are evil or have unfinished business.
Of course there are legends or sayings about ghosts and rituals to make them go away,but the diversity is so…big that you do need indeed to take your time and find more about these.evil ghosts usually take the form of white dogs or dark shades.They attack the animals and make people feel sick.Sure there are rituals about how to get rid of ghosts,most disturbing of all is the next one : you take out the dead man`s heart [whom you suspect to have turned into a strigoi],you burn it,mix the ashes with water and give the resulting fluid to be drank by the person whom you think is haunted by the spirit and who usually feels sick.There are also sayings regarding tthe way you discover a future strigoi.when a baby is born,if it has a patch of hair looking like a priest like hat,it means that he/she will become a strigoi.there are too many things to say and i think that you sir will be pleased to find them out all on your own.we romanians have a big diversity of themes that would fit perfectly in your story.For more info check out wikipedia for romanian folklore and more.Btw we have wonderful,inspiring landscapes,especially in the Jiu Valley and Parang Mountains.It`s pure Transilvania land so don`t worry sir.
Hope you get to see these lands as soon as possible.
With respect,
Tavi aka Mark.
PS:I`m turning 18 soon and i began reading the series a couple of months ago.It`s amazing!Just like watching a horror movie!A very,very good one!Especially because i like things like this and i had some ghost experiences myself.
August 27th, 2009 at 9:45 pm
Hi my name is Ciaron it is an irish spelling of the name Keiron/Keiran, there was a saint with the name in this form who brought several people back from the dead (possibly necromancer in book eight) he was also very friendly with animals (possibly outdoorsy spook for book eight if so Arkwright’s dogs could be given to him) if you do use my name I would be very pleased and quite honoured.
I’m a great fan of the books have got many friends interested in the books aswell and I thank my mum for pointing out the spooks apprentice (which was how i came accross the books).
amazing books and if the film is half as good as the books are it will be the best film ever.
Well Done.
Ciaron Bennett
August 27th, 2009 at 9:57 pm
Hello joseph and other readers.
I love the spooks series because i love how the story progresses. I just finished the spooks mistake and i love what happenes about toms mam and i hope that alice becomes good. Maby Alice and Tom will live together when Toms takes over from the spook.
My favourite characters are: •The witch assasin manlik or something live that
•Tom
•the spook
•toms mam
•Alice
Love the books and keep making more amazing ones.
August 28th, 2009 at 4:06 pm
If you’re coming to Thailand mail me please!! I found the first and second book in my school library and when I started reading I can’t put it down. I bought the third and waited for the fourth, fifth and sixth, now waiting for the seventh!! (Hope it delivers to my country quickly)
August 28th, 2009 at 6:34 pm
I absolutely love the spooks books, theyre amazing!
Ive got my family hooked and im even naming my new puppy after Mab Mouldheel haha
Cant wait for the other books to come out, i want to see what happens with the fiend too.
I just hope the film is as good as the books, id be chuffed if they were! And i love Alices accent, but thats only ’cause its the same as mine, i just type posh
And i was gutted when Arkwright died, i still have hope that he’s alive, or maybe one of the witches can bring him back to life, i dont know
I know my names nothing special but id still appreciate it, even if its just my last name, i wont mind (:
Thanks for writing great books!
Katie Mather (:
August 28th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Hello Joseph! I’m Paula and i’m form Romania too. Unfortunatly I couldn’t make it in time to Brasov because my uncle died that day but I really wish you would come again so you can sign my 6 books. I’m a huge fan and maybe I can help you do some research for a location for your ninth book because I live in Transylvania. I would be glad if you could give me an answer.
Yours truly,
Paula
August 29th, 2009 at 5:25 pm
Hi,
I’m 18 and absolutely love the Spook books, and am so glad you’re planning to write at least three more books. How many more books are you planning to have in the series?
Like a lot of other people, I would love to have my name mentioned in my favourite book series, but as my name means “who is like God” I think it may be hard to fit in with the dark nature of the books, but there is some strands of religion in your books such as the Priests (plus the Spook’s own background), views on religion and even the Fiend, who is seen as the devil. I also think it’s fairly common, but not too common.
Anyway, I’ve babbled on a bit now, and I can’t wait for the next instalments!
All the best, Michaela.
August 29th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
i am from romania love to see you soon here if you want information about the witches of the country you should speek to the gipsy. i am 15 big fan of the books .
August 29th, 2009 at 10:07 pm
dear joseph delaney,
I was at school 1 day and my teacher showed us the spoooks apperentice.
Despite i never have read a book with lots of pages, i really liked it and started to read all of them.
I have read upto the spooks sacrifice and waiting for the spooks nightmare and bestairy.
I met you at borders with my school, i can’t wait for the spoooks nightmare and the spooks bestiary.
I hope you write more books and they are amazin and i hope you write more of them!
good luck!
matthew riding
August 29th, 2009 at 11:12 pm
It’s wrote in portugues, sorry but my english is bad…
Só do brasil, e acho muito bom o livro … tá eu não sei o que fala aqui entao só vou fala isso.
Valeu pelo livro vale a pena ler.
August 30th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
As everyone else I just wanted to say thank you for the Wardstone Chronicles.
I read the spooks apprentice in 2005 when I was 11, and I wait with anticipation for the next book everytime i finish a new one. Therefore waiting for the limited edition with the old style cover is trying. Especially for my dad. I’ll never get too old for the books, & neither will my dad. In a cementary in the South of France my father pointed to a grave that was covered by an iron frame with decorative bars in it and then said “I bet there’s salt in it too”.
Thanks for teaching me English through your books, it has shaped my life, good luck with the movie, and especially with your writings, keep it solid. And don’t name anyone in your books Céline.
best regards,
a Dane abroad.
August 31st, 2009 at 4:04 pm
hey, my name is alex and i am really enjoying the series. i am still waiting for number 6.(long story, but anyway i should have it soon).i am VERY disappointed about the cover change, why halfway through the series?personally i can see why, the old covers are deinitely my favourite but theyre not the most eyecatching. maybe they should keep both, with the old ones as litmited edition until the series ends?
anyway, theres all this business about the film?and to be honest, im not really looking forward to it. the books are always better.yes, ill go to see it and ill be delighted if it has good actors and includes the WHOLE story, as not many films of books do.
thanks,alex
(by the way oliver hays the witch assassin is called grimalkin)
September 5th, 2009 at 11:09 am
hi im your numger 1 fan im loving the series and have started writing my own books too! im really excited about the new film coming out i cant wait but im not sure i imagined the characters as they will be in the film (they would need a pretty good make up artist!) i think your books are great although they scare me a bit!
love georgiax
September 6th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
hi, im a 13 year old boy from england. your books are my favourite books. please can you tll me how many more books you are going to publish in the wardstone chronicles? also do you ever come down south to east anglia because i really want to get my books signed by you. your books were the first books i read which inspired me to read. i wish your books ould come out every 2 seconds. i would constantly read them.
happy writing
dan (your biggest fan, i am also getting my room spray painted with the pictures of the spooks in december)=)
September 7th, 2009 at 1:21 am
Hi I just wanted to say how much I love your books, Your books have inspired me to be a writer, I love reading about the adventures of the spook, tom and alice the last book was pretty sad but exciting, I can’t wait for your next book, I actualy just happened to find the last apprentice: revenge of the witch at my library, and had no Idea they were the spooks books when I got started on your series I just couldn’t wait to get the next book, I was wondering if you would do a book tour in the U.S. and come to Turlock Ca. it’s a small town filled with people who just love your books, including me
Your biggest fan
Xochitl
September 7th, 2009 at 1:27 am
sorry about the repost but I just read Alex’s comment and I agree that the books are always much better than the movie, twilight the book was much better than the movie, and I know that the spooks books and twilight are way different but I don’t want this movie to be lacking what twilight did, I hope you pick the best actors you can find and don’t leave important things in the book out in the movie
best regards
Xochitl
September 11th, 2009 at 11:45 am
First of all, hello mister Delaney, and excuse my english please! I know that you may heard this a thousand times before but I am one of your biggest fans ! I love “The Wardstone Chronicles” and I can`t wait for the movie to come out!
Certainly you will find a lot of sources of inspiration in Romania and you could use many locations from our country for that, like the Odorheiu Secuiesc in Transylvania, where you can see a lot of chapels, old churches, cloisters and many more. The landscape is gorgeous, especially the Carpathians, and all your fans will be really happy if you`ll visit us one more time:).
Best wishes, your biggest fan, Andrada.
September 13th, 2009 at 4:32 am
NEW BOOKS!!!! HOO RAHH!!! *kisses your feet* Haha
Me and my niece LOVE your books. When i first started reading them to her, she was fascinated because her last name is also Ward. Haha
We can’t wait for the new ones!
I’m dying for the movie to come out!
I’m glad you have a new blog entry! I come almost every day to check! Haha
Yes, you’re probably to get a million comments from me like this
Yet another one of your faithful fans,
Caitlin Griffin
P.S. Would be awesome if my name could be in the book! Haha, I don’t know if its quite spookish enough, but its worth a try.
September 20th, 2009 at 6:17 am
ALL HAIL JOSEPH DELANEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
sorry, had to do that!
anyways i was just wondering when the seventh book is coming out in Australia.
.P.S.in your eight and ninth book or tenth book etc could you put a werewolf in,
’cause i think there’re REEEEAAAALLLLY super awsome!!!!.
.PP.s.sorr y about the bad righting and spelling!
.PPP.S.BYE!
September 20th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
I know that there are more spook tales coming out, but I would like to know if there will be anymore books about the many adventures yet to come of Tom, Alice, and the Spook? I would also like to say that your better than JK Rowling herself and I don’t say that likly.
One of your many fans,
Daniel Worthington, USA
September 21st, 2009 at 12:48 pm
ur awsome author man u rock cant wait for nightmares to come out thts ages but ohh well can u plzz my name in the book its very unique and very very different plzzzz i beg u . ur awsome man once again lol write back plzzz thank u! by the way my name is zain
September 23rd, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Hi Joeseph! I cant wait for you to come to Ireland!!!!! I will definatley be at your book signing, try to find out as soon as you can where your signing books in Ireland. I know you have heard this dozens of times but Im your BIGGEST FAN-in Ireland anyway………..Really love your books.:) Im 11 and these are the best books Ive read in my life!!!!!! Id love if you could mention my name in the book but if you cant please dont wory about it:) My name is Andrea by the way. Thank you sooooooo much for writing these books!!!!!! Anyway thanks again.Good luck writing some more books-not that you need it! Thank you soooooo much.
Andrea
PS. My favourite character in the book is Alice.
October 3rd, 2009 at 2:11 am
Dr Mr Delaney
Greetings, My Name is Mark Douglas of Victoria Australia.
I am a liong time fan of the spooks series.
Ever since i wandered throught the shelfs of my high school libary and stumbled on that small misteriouse black book I was hooked!!!
I just love your magical imagination and creativeness.
But sir I must say I was really let down when I went to purchase the new Spooks Sacrifice only to find these tacky colorful unitreging novals that simply dont have the mystery that made me open and start reading the first books. I just loved the old simple tatterd emboswsed hard covers. thsese new ones dont quiet have the magic of the old covers.
So I almost over joyed when I heard they where making the collectors edition I was almost ready to give up on the series, so thank you from the bottom of my heart.
your vivid reader
Mark Douglas
October 4th, 2009 at 5:41 am
Hey there were do I put my name down for the chance of being in the book?
My name is Lachlan Grainger. Lachlan is a scottish name roughly meaning “Warrior by the river” Or By the water. Lachlan is also and English/Scottish name.
October 4th, 2009 at 9:00 am
Dear Mr Delaney,
Hello from Australia. I would just like to tell you how much I enjoy reading your books, I have all of them! I originally got them for my son Alex who is the same age as Tom, I am a 43 year old Mam, and one day I decided to read them and see what they were all about and I have been hooked ever since! There is never a dull moment and I love at how things don’t always end the way you think! I am eagerly awaiting the movie of The Spook’s Apprentice. I hope it’s ok to be an older fan!
Debbie
October 7th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
Hi Joseph.
I really enjoyed meeting you today in Tullamore - your books are AWESOME. Thanks a million for signing my book. I can’t wait for your new one -it’ll be on my Christmas list!! It was great news to hear there will be a movie made of The Spooks Apprentice - definately can’t wait for that.
Cian
PS I’M your biggest fan!!!! I hope you pick my name for one of your characters in The Spook’s Nightmare.
October 8th, 2009 at 3:49 am
I just satrted reading these books on Friday last week but i love them so much that i hunted every last one down. I just finshed the last today and am so egaer for the new one
October 12th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Where do i put my name down to be put in the book ?
October 14th, 2009 at 2:01 am
I really wish I could meet you, I love your style of writing and you are a big influence on my and my creative writing. I hope one day you will be able to have a book signing in Syndey, Australia.
I know you probably won’t take this name, but I have a suggestion for a which type character - I really like the name Willow and for a boy (any sort) I like the name Lardner.
October 14th, 2009 at 4:45 pm
So that’s how you come up with your ideas! Never knew that
Hello Joseph Delaney! I’m writing a research paper and I want to do it on you and your series. The topic of it was “Pick an author and write about how his/her environment helped shape the book.” I know that many of the places in your books are based off of your hometown and that some of the things you write you get from myths and urban legends that you have heard and that the Latin in your book you learned yourself (but forgot most of it which is okay because that’s how I turned out to be with Spanish :D) But if you could email me a little bit more on your books that would help. I don’t expect a page long or anything because I understand your busy! But even a little bit of information on how you grew up or how your hometown helped shaped the book would be great!
I can’t wait to see what Tom and Alice go up against next!
Yours Truly
Devin Alavardo
October 29th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
When you make the book based in Romania, can use my name?
My name comes from a big king in my country. Mircea the Elder. He was the father to Vlad II Dracul and grandfather of Vlad Tepes. You kow, vampires. 
So I hope you use my name. 
Thanks. You’re the best!
October 29th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
lovin all the books just finished reading the Spooks secret really good book.Keep up the good writing.Also when will there b more news on the film cos i want to no when about will it b released.Anyway really good books. Oliver
October 31st, 2009 at 5:48 am
Heyy
I am a massive fan of yours, and i love all of The Spook’s books.
I just wanted to give you a bit of critisism. Your books are fantastic, but The Spook’s: Mistake and The Spook’s: Sacrifice are shorter than The Spook’s: Battle. I am just a bit irriated that you make them shorter. Please! In the next book/s make them a little longer.
I hope you consider this. Thanks!
November 8th, 2009 at 7:28 am
I would like if you used my name for one of your books. It’s Gustavo by the way.
November 8th, 2009 at 7:30 am
And also, I agree with Oliver because I want to know more about the new movie.
November 10th, 2009 at 6:36 pm
i love spooks books thanks for a exiting read (Y)
did i read wright nine books
November 23rd, 2009 at 10:50 am
I love the books and the idea of having the plot action from the nine book in Romania (and that you are not going to include Dracula in it… It’s such a cliche, plus a wrong one… we have a lot of other miths and magical creatures too). But i wanted to ask when are your other books are going to be published here (The Spook’s Tale and The Wardstone Witches)?
November 23rd, 2009 at 8:43 pm
Sorry!!! I had to go and I didn’t said everything that I wanted to say. Well you probably figured out I’m from Romania and I’m 18. Your books are the best since the Harry Potter series that I read and trust me I did looked very hard for another good series. In my class everyone loves them and waits them impatiently. Right now I’m saving money to buy the six book which was just published here. I was happy when I heard that the plot of the ninth book will be set here in Romania ( I didn’t made it to your last autograph session and I would like to know if you will organize one again when you come back?? If so when?). Now that I read the messages above I would like to advise you (if you may allow me) to use real romanian names because I noticed that many foreign authors name their romanian characters with russian or bulgarian names (and they are very different from ours) which is annoying and if you want to use the “ielele” (search on wikipedia the word “iele”), i find them very interesting or just “Folklore of Romania” (but i think you already know that…). I hoped I didn’t seemed very impolite or pushy, and if so I want to offer my sincere apologizes. In my defense i might add that I am very exited about this topic and very impatient for the ninth book’s arrival.
November 23rd, 2009 at 8:55 pm
Ok now i read even closer and I noticed it’s a “competition” about names around here… So my full name is Elena Teodora Beatrice Stoian (Elena means sunshine, Teodora gift of god and Beatrice, bringer of Joy so the all name would mean Sunshine is a gift from God to bring Joy to the people (am i not poetic or what???)), but all are empresses names (Elena is after my great grandmother, Teodora was picked by my godmother and Beatrice was the name that my grandfather liked… They couldn’t decide which one…) and no, i’m not blond ( don’t know why when people hear that my name means sunshine thinks i’m blond but i’m more a dark brown hair with dark brown eyes), but i am optimistic and a friend says I’m with the head in the clouds but with the feet on the ground…(don’t really know what that means anyway). So in the end my name ( and i don’t want to sound proud, thought I am) is the most complex one
.
November 23rd, 2009 at 9:00 pm
ok i didn’t meant that my great grandma was a empress ( that went out wrong) but the names are: Empress Elena of Constantinopol, Empress Teodora of the Byzantine Empire, and Empress Beatrice… I think all are related with the ortodox religion in a way or another…
November 25th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
If may I suggest some places that could be spooky in Romania: Bran Castle, The Chindia Tower(from Targoviste), Sarmizegetusa Regia (looks magical or mystical), Berca Mud Volcanoes, the Sphinx (a natural rock formation in the Bucegi Mountains that looks like a human head, always freaked me out) or Babele (”Old Women”- also a natural rock fromation in Bucegi Montains that looks like too old women chatting)
November 25th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
PS: Here is a list with some romanian family names http://ro.wikipedia.org/wiki/List%C4%83_de_nume_rom%C3%A2ne%C5%9Fti and a list with some romanian first names http://ro.wikipedia.org/wiki/List%C4%83_de_prenume_rom%C3%A2ne%C5%9Fti (the female are first and the male are second)
Unfortunately the list is from the romanian wikipedia (there isn’t such page in the english wikipedia)
November 25th, 2009 at 10:01 pm
PSS: OMG!!! I seem to talk to much… SORRY!!!
November 27th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
my name is a local yorkshire name and it would be the world to me (and i would have completed one of my life long dreams) if it was in one of your books. lofthouse is not that common but it origins from yorkshire and means something about a guy living above his livestock in a house so he can keep all his livestock alive and well and nearby! once again i love your books and remain the only series of books in the world to keep me reading to the end!!
although i come from lancashire and live in the pendle area! it was great to meet joseph as well and hear all his ideas!
from a huge fan!
Harry lofthouse
p.s still waiting for the film to be great
December 4th, 2009 at 11:49 am
Hi Mr Delany
Im loving your books, my friend let me borrow the first one and ever since I’ve been hooked!
Do you think you could add in a land, or character from a country similar to Australia? I rekon that would be awesome. Im Australian, was born here but my dad was born in England. He chose my name “Lachlan” which means Warrior by the River in Gaelic.
You could change the name to something like Lockie, Lockness etc…
It would be fantastic if you could reply.
Big fan
Lockie.
December 8th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
my names elspeth plz think about using it in a book
ps love the books all 6
ellxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
December 18th, 2009 at 6:45 pm
After a lot of thinking,i got the idea that you aren`t going to have the action taking place on actual Romanian land.I presume you`ll use a bunch of vampires & witches/gypsies that got to Britanic land via ferry.Hope this makes sense.I`d have more sense not to make vampires magical…At least,they could`ve been savage creatures till the 13-14th century when they made a pact with withces,and that`s when things got messed up.
Also,the presence of a romanian spook in those lands,seeking for answers,would be nice.
Aren`t you going to make Tom go to Loch Ness?It would simply blow me away to read that the monster there was created by witches [underwater version of Tibb] to protect `magical` gold coins,or something even more precious.
hope to get the 5th and 6th book as a present.sure of the fact that this will be one spooky Christmas.haha.cheers!
ps:don`t make it all russian/slavic.sick of seeing romanian characters named vladimir or something like this.
December 21st, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Hey. I couldn’t get through to this page the other day. Anyone else had the problem?
January 2nd, 2010 at 9:47 pm
just like to say i love the books….ii was only recently introduced to them but have been hooked.
im pretty sure joseph Delaneys name will be up there some day with the all time greats of fantasy like tolkien, Rowling and Robert jordan.
i was also hoping that you could use my name during toms journey to ireland.
my name is Lorcan o’ Donnell …which has deep irish roots ….my family crest is the crest of county donegal…Lorcan means little fierce one, so i think you could use it well.
many thanks for the great reads:D:D
January 19th, 2010 at 7:14 pm
Hi my name is Dwayne Robinson i am a big of The Spooks series, everything single one has been brilliant and i have been unable to put each of them down once i began reading them. I am writing because you wrote on you website that you may use unsual names if they fit in with the story of The Wardstone Chronicles, and i beleive that my name is pretty rare and unusual especially in the United Kingdom. So i will keep my fingers crossed that you feel it may fit in well in The Spooks World.
Many many thanks, Dwayne Robinson.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:48 pm
Helloo
My name is 100% Scottish, which I think could be used as Lancashire is so close to Scotland.
Good luck with the books (of which I love).
Calum McIntosh.
March 6th, 2010 at 7:13 am
Hi.
I love the books!!
But on the first page it says You can play the spooks battle. I cannot find it anywhere but I really want to play it! Can you please tell me where it is?:(
March 6th, 2010 at 8:44 am
Hi again,
What do you do with the map once you’ve finished it off?
And do you even write back to questions? Or do you send an E-mail? Any ways I’d like a reply for my first question and this one. Thanks!
Luke (pukester3):D
April 9th, 2010 at 1:36 am
Hi. I really love your books, but I live in New York, and it seems like your always getting books published afterwards, in the U.S. Also, the Last Apprentice website hasn’t been changed for a long time. What is the “Rise Of The Huntress”? I saw it on Amazon.com, but I couldn’t find it on Book Store sites. Also, could you maybe use my name, Achilles, in one of your books. I’ve never met anyone with the same name, and i think its kind of cool. If your thinking about it, send me an email. I can’t wait until A Coven Of Witches comes out! I love your books!
May 15th, 2010 at 4:16 pm
Hey i love your books
June 18th, 2010 at 3:49 pm
Hy.I am your number 1 fan from Romania,a very misterious country.Me and all fans,can wait the number 8 Wardstone Chronichles book and the Book Nine with our country.:(I love the books!!
Sebastian
July 17th, 2010 at 2:20 pm
hey i cant wait for the 9th book to come out. can you consider having Claire in the 9th book ? also could you give me better details of the plot for the book and when it comes out ? good luck with everything joseph!:)
July 21st, 2010 at 6:48 pm
hey great books
but what comes after the spooks nightmare
iv been dying to get more
July 21st, 2010 at 6:54 pm
hey again
love ur books since everyones asking requests
can u please add some evil things from the other side of te world.
i duno may be somethin like india
thank you ur tha best