On a hot August night, as I sat drinking a cosmopolitan and watching fire flies flit amongst the mango tree, I got a call from Random House.

Somehow they had tracked me down to Casa Pacifica on the outskirts of Panama City. At first I thought is was some kind of practical joke, a gag my buddies had orchestrated to lift my spirits to stop me hitting the spirits.

But no, there on the other end of the crappy mobile phone, was a voice from NZ. A voice, asking me if I would be interested in writing a book. I took another swig of the cosmo, sat up a bit straighter and put on my best speech and drama voice. “Ummm yes” I said trying to be casual, calm, author like.

The voice continued… “Could I add some back story?”  Could I what! “How far back do you want?”  I squealed – my speech and drama voice and composure leaving me.  “ Whatever you think is interesting”

I pinched myself, had I died and gone to heaven? Was a publisher calling me up and asking me to write a book, about….. myself?

Yes, yes they were. I fist punched the air and said “You betcha!!!!”

The next morning I put on my best kaftan and started writing.

Four months later, I handed the manuscript for Sea Fever; From First Date to First Mate to Random House and this is what happened next…..

Read an extract here and feel free to buy now.

Sea Fever Book Launch was a total blast complete with Glitter Cannons, Real Hot Bitches and a Mexican band.

A VERY big thank you to all the people who came along, gave generously and brought the book.