I have always written, often to meet the demands of the day rather than simply for pleasure. Creating a finished work is even more satisfying now that I have the freedom to choose what it is that I shall write. A civil engineering degree - if I were to be a writer, I wouldn't start from there - I hear you say. And yet, it was a career that took me to Africa, a place full of wonder and excitement, providing the stimulation needed to put pen to paper. We were young, June and I, just 26 years old when we left Britain and our two boys were born in Africa; it's very much part of us. Years later, the sale of my business released me to write my first book, finding amusement in the reflections, the memories that make up our lives. That done, I was free to move on to other projects. I enjoy the outdoors, different sports, exercise, travel, new challenges and having fun with friends and family. I also have a taste for red wine, cold lager and good food - someone has to. John Roome. Emoor Press.