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<channel>
	<title>Alex James Eccleston</title>
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	<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com</link>
	<description>Bestselling Author - Writing stories of suspense, psychological twists, and pulse-pounding thrills</description>
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	<title>Alex James Eccleston</title>
	<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com</link>
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	<item>
		<title>It’s Finally Time: Announcing The Shadow Awakening (Nineteen Minutes to Midnight, Book 2!)</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/announcing-the-shadow-awakening/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2026 10:48:03 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Science Fiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Upcoming releases]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=9574</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[It’s been a long time coming (2 years since I began the first draft!), but I am beyond excited to finally reveal the next installment in the Nineteen Minutes to Midnight series! When I finished writing Nineteen Minutes to Midnight, I knew Jerome and Arabella’s story was far from over. Over the past couple of...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-path-to-node="3">It’s been a long time coming (2 years since I began the first draft!), but I am beyond excited to finally reveal the next installment in the <i data-path-to-node="3" data-index-in-node="96">Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</i> series!</p>
<p data-path-to-node="4">When I finished writing <a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/nineteen-minutes-to-midnight/"><i data-path-to-node="4" data-index-in-node="24">Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</i></a>, I knew Jerome and Arabella’s story was far from over. Over the past couple of years, I’ve been deep in the drafting and editing trenches crafting a massive, heart-pounding sequel that takes this world to a whole new level!</p>
<p data-path-to-node="5">Today, I’m thrilled to officially announce <b data-path-to-node="5" data-index-in-node="43">Book 2: <a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/the-shadow-awakening/"><i data-path-to-node="5" data-index-in-node="51">The Shadow Awakening</i></a></b>!</p>
<h3 data-path-to-node="7">What is <i data-path-to-node="7" data-index-in-node="8">The Shadow Awakening</i> About?</h3>
<p data-path-to-node="8">Here is a look at the official blurb:</p>
<blockquote data-path-to-node="9">
<p data-path-to-node="9,0"><b data-path-to-node="9,0" data-index-in-node="0">Darkness will prevail. A shadow is awakening&#8230;</b></p>
<p data-path-to-node="9,1">Four years after a mysterious grandfather clock appeared in his attic, Jerome Adewale has made his choice: he’s done travelling back in time. He knows how it ends. He and Arabella Wentworth can never be together.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="9,2">But then come the stories. Sightings of monstrous creatures with hellish red eyes, lurking at the edge of the dark. And Jerome’s biggest fear is confirmed. It’s not over.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="9,3">When a familiar figure from his past turns up, Jerome, along with Sam and Olly, are dragged into a fight they never asked for&#8230; again. Reluctantly, Jerome returns to 1905, where he and Arabella are reunited at last. But something is different about her. Something he believes has been awakening for a very long time.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="9,4">Across the world, tech juggernaut Kurt Epoch promises mankind’s first steps on Mars, televised live for all to see. But Arabella has seen Epoch’s face before. Or, at least, something wearing it.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="9,5">Now, as the countdown begins, they must uncover what Epoch is really planning before it’s too late. And as Arabella discovers what she truly is, one truth becomes impossible to ignore: if Jerome can’t help her in time, there won’t be a future left to fight for&#8230;</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 data-path-to-node="11">Bigger Stakes &amp; Long-Awaited Answers</h3>
<p data-path-to-node="12">If you loved the time travel, character dynamics, and historical mystery of Book 1, <i data-path-to-node="12" data-index-in-node="94">The Shadow Awakening </i>ramps up the tension in every possible way.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="13">We’re returning to Victorian-era 1905, but we’re also jumping into modern-day space-tech conspiracies with Kurt Epoch, introducing terrifying new monstrous threats, and digging deep into the truth of who (and <i data-path-to-node="13" data-index-in-node="208">what</i>) Arabella actually is. At 180,000 words, this is an epic entry in every sense of the word!</p>
<h3 data-path-to-node="14">When is it out?</h3>
<p data-path-to-node="15">The manuscript is in its final polish stages, and I am currently aiming for a <b data-path-to-node="15" data-index-in-node="78">Spring 2027 release</b>. Pre-order details will be available soon!</p>
<p data-path-to-node="18">Thank you to every single reader who picked up <i data-path-to-node="18" data-index-in-node="47">Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</i>, left a review, sent a message, or asked when Jerome and Arabella would be back. Your enthusiasm is what keeps these books flowing.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="20"><b data-path-to-node="20" data-index-in-node="0">Alex</b></p>
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		<title>OUT NOW: The Shopkeeper</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/the-shopkeeper-release/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2026 07:05:58 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[New Releases]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Psychological Thrillers]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=9560</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Today is a big day. My brand-new stalker thriller, The Shopkeeper, is officially live and available to read! This launch feels extra special because, for a long time, I genuinely wasn&#8217;t sure this book would ever see the light of day. The Story Behind the Story I actually began writing The Shopkeeper back in late...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-path-to-node="3">Today is a big day. My brand-new stalker thriller, <a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/the-shopkeeper/"><b data-path-to-node="3" data-index-in-node="51"><i data-path-to-node="3" data-index-in-node="51">The Shopkeeper</i></b></a>, is officially live and available to read!</p>
<p data-path-to-node="4">This launch feels extra special because, for a long time, I genuinely wasn&#8217;t sure this book would ever see the light of day.</p>
<h3 data-path-to-node="5"><b data-path-to-node="5" data-index-in-node="0">The Story Behind the Story</b></h3>
<p data-path-to-node="6">I actually began writing <i data-path-to-node="6" data-index-in-node="25">The Shopkeeper</i> back in late 2023, fresh off finishing <i data-path-to-node="6" data-index-in-node="79">North Paradise</i>. I was excited about the concept, but about halfway through the first draft, I hit an absolute brick wall—easily the worst case of writer’s block I’ve ever experienced.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="7">I was so stuck that I had to completely walk away from the manuscript. During that break, I wrote and released <i data-path-to-node="7" data-index-in-node="111">One Step Closer</i> (which ended up reaching over 60,000 of you!).</p>
<p data-path-to-node="8">There were moments when I thought <i data-path-to-node="8" data-index-in-node="34">The Shopkeeper</i> would remain buried on my hard drive forever. But I knew deep down that this story was too good to give up on. Whenever my writing journey got tough or I wrote myself into a rut, I’d pick this draft back up and remind myself that there is always a way forward.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="9">After nearly two years of wrestling with this plot, I finally cracked it—and I couldn&#8217;t be prouder of the finished book.</p>
<h3 data-path-to-node="11"><b data-path-to-node="11" data-index-in-node="0">What is <i data-path-to-node="11" data-index-in-node="8">The Shopkeeper</i> About?</b></h3>
<blockquote data-path-to-node="12">
<p data-path-to-node="12,0"><b data-path-to-node="12,0" data-index-in-node="0">HE WATCHES. HE WAITS. HE WANTS <em>HER</em>.</b></p>
<p data-path-to-node="12,1"><strong>Brooke Jackson is on the brink.</strong> Jobless overnight after her company collapses, she’s struggling to care for her baby boy while buried beneath relentless bills. In pure survival mode, she accepts a job at a quiet local corner shop.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="12,2"><strong>Her new boss, Spencer White, seems like an absolute lifeline</strong>. He’s kind, supportive, and offers her a way out of her financial nightmare. But beneath his warm smiles lies a dark, tightening obsession.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="12,3">When Brooke makes a chilling discovery, she realizes the man she trusted most has been keeping dangerous secrets. And now, Spencer is ready to make sure she understands the truth: <i data-path-to-node="12,3" data-index-in-node="180">They belong together. No matter what it takes. And she </i><strong>will be</strong><i data-path-to-node="12,3" data-index-in-node="180"> perfect&#8230;</i></p>
</blockquote>
<h3 data-path-to-node="14"><b data-path-to-node="14" data-index-in-node="0">A Tense, Addictive Stalker Thriller</b></h3>
<p data-path-to-node="15">If you loved the fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat tension of <i data-path-to-node="15" data-index-in-node="58">One Step Closer</i>, <i data-path-to-node="15" data-index-in-node="75">The Shopkeeper</i> turns the psychological pressure up to maximum. It’s a story about desperation, broken trust, and the deadly secrets hidden behind polite, everyday smiles.</p>
<h3 data-path-to-node="15"><strong>Thank You!</strong></h3>
<p data-path-to-node="21">Writing is a long, quiet, and sometimes deeply frustrating process (as this book certainly proved to me!), but launching it into the world and putting it into your hands makes every single struggle worth it.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="22">Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and supporting my work. If you pick up <i data-path-to-node="22" data-index-in-node="79">The Shopkeeper</i> today, please take a moment to leave a quick rating or review on Amazon or Goodreads once you finish—it makes a massive difference for independent authors.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="23">Grab your copy, settle in, and enjoy the read!</p>
<p data-path-to-node="23"><a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/the-shopkeeper/">Get your copy here!</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>ARC Applications Now Open for The Shopkeeper!</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/arc-applications-now-open-for-the-shopkeeper/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 28 Aug 2026 09:08:07 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Psychological Thrillers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Upcoming releases]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=9536</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[After an incredible year with One Step Closer crossing over 60,000 downloads, I am so excited to announce that my next psychological thriller, The Shopkeeper, is officially ready for early readers! Releasing on 27th October 2026 (just in time for Halloween), The Shopkeeper is my darkest stalker thriller yet. To get things ready for launch...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-path-to-node="12">After an incredible year with <i data-path-to-node="12" data-index-in-node="30">One Step Closer</i> crossing over 60,000 downloads, I am so excited to announce that my next psychological thriller, <a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/the-shopkeeper/"><b data-path-to-node="12" data-index-in-node="143"><i data-path-to-node="12" data-index-in-node="143">The Shopkeeper</i></b></a>, is officially ready for early readers!</p>
<p data-path-to-node="13">Releasing on <b data-path-to-node="13" data-index-in-node="13">27th October 2026 </b>(just in time for Halloween), <i data-path-to-node="13" data-index-in-node="58">The Shopkeeper</i> is my darkest stalker thriller yet. To get things ready for launch day, I’m opening up applications for my Advance Reader Copy (ARC) team today.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="14"><b data-path-to-node="14" data-index-in-node="0">What is an ARC team?</b> An ARC team is a group of avid readers who get a free, early digital copy of a book in exchange for posting an honest review on Amazon on launch day. Launch-day reviews make a huge difference in helping new readers discover a book, and your early feedback is vital!</p>
<p data-path-to-node="15"><b data-path-to-node="15" data-index-in-node="0">How to join:</b></p>
<ul data-path-to-node="16">
<li>
<p data-path-to-node="16,0,0">Head over to the <b data-path-to-node="16,0,0" data-index-in-node="17"><a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/arc/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahgKEwi138GO_MKWAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQmwE">ARC Signup Page</a></b>.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p data-path-to-node="16,1,0">Fill out the quick form with your name, email, and preferred format (ePub, Kindle, or PDF).</p>
</li>
<li>
<p data-path-to-node="16,2,0">Keep an eye on your inbox in mid-September when early copies are sent out!</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p data-path-to-node="17">Thank you all so much for the ongoing support—I can&#8217;t wait to hear what you think of this one!</p>
<p data-path-to-node="18"><b data-path-to-node="18" data-index-in-node="3"><a class="ng-star-inserted" href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/arc/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-hveid="0" data-ved="0CAAQ_4QMahgKEwi138GO_MKWAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQnAE">Apply to join the ARC team here</a></b></p>
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		<title>Forbidden Shores is heading to audiobook!</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/forbidden-shores-is-heading-to-audiobook/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2026 09:33:56 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Audiobooks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Psychological Thrillers]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/forbidden-shores-is-heading-to-audiobook/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[I have some exciting news for audiobook listeners: Forbidden Shores has officially gone into production for its audio edition! Even better, I’m thrilled to share that it’s being narrated by the incredible Gillian Wray. She has the perfect voice to bring the tension, secrets, and high-stakes drama of this story to life, and I cannot wait for you...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">I have some exciting news for audiobook listeners: <em><a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/forbidden-shores/" data-type="books" data-id="332"><strong>Forbidden Shores</strong></a></em> has officially gone into production for its audio edition!</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Even better, I’m thrilled to share that it’s being narrated by the incredible <strong><a href="https://www.beyondthegoodgirlpodcast.com/audiobooks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gillian Wray</a></strong>. She has the perfect voice to bring the tension, secrets, and high-stakes drama of this story to life, and I cannot wait for you all to hear what she does with it.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Recording has officially started, so I’ll be back with more updates (and hopefully a sneaky audio sample) very soon!</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In the meantime, if you haven&#8217;t picked up the ebook or paperback yet, you can <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=your-link-here" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grab your copy here</a>.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Stay tuned!</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>
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		<title>Read An Exclusive Excerpt From The Shopkeeper</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/read-an-exclusive-excerpt-from-the-shopkeeper/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:43:59 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[New Releases]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Psychological Thrillers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Upcoming releases]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=8571</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><section class="l-section wpb_row us_custom_b6a72ce1 height_auto"><div class="l-section-h i-cf"><div class="g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default"><div class="wpb_column vc_column_container"><div class="vc_column-inner"><div class="wpb_text_column"><div class="wpb_wrapper"><p><span>I’ve been itching to give you all a sneak peek of what I’ve been working on. Here’s an exclusive look at the start of </span><i data-path-to-node="4,0" data-index-in-node="118">The Shopkeeper</i><span>. If I&#8217;m honest, this one might be my darkest, most twisted thriller yet&#8230; so, consider yourself warned!</span></p>
<p><span>Read the excerpt below and enjoy.</span></p>
<blockquote style="font-size: 20px;">
<h2><strong>September, 2008</strong></h2>
<p>She holds her breath, desperately hanging on for a few more precious seconds. This is what she’s been working on for weeks.</p>
<p><i>‘And… exhale.’</i></p>
<p>The lady’s soothing voice, coming from the TV, is a much-needed respite, and she doesn’t need telling twice. Some precious air floods back into her lungs. She’s getting better at it now, though. That’s the reward for months of hard work and dedication, despite what the devil on her left shoulder says. When she first started her morning meditation, she could barely hold her breath for longer than ten seconds. Now she’s going well over thirty.</p>
<p>As the soothing voice lady instructs, Brooke keeps her eyes closed and her body upright and still. The calming background music drifts through the living room before dissolving into the sound of waves crashing against sand, which only makes her need a wee.</p>
<p>She feels a bead of sweat slowly roll down the side of her face, tickling her temple as she fights with everything to hold still.</p>
<p><i>‘And this time through the nose,’ </i>the soothing voice lady says.</p>
<p>Brooke deeply inhales again, sitting cross-legged with her palms resting on her thighs, trying her hardest not to fart when the soothing voice lady instructs her to spread her legs like a ballerina. Easy for <i>her</i> to say, but judging by the fact that she’s got to be at least fifty, Brooke is quietly confident that she didn’t just push a baby out less than a year ago, only to be instructed to ‘effortlessly spread her legs’. To Brooke, it feels more like playing a drunken game of Twister.</p>
<p>Eventually, she eases into the stretch, still sweating under her sports bra, but grateful for the moment of peace before the day grabs her with both hands. And it’s a big day too. One she’s been nervous about for weeks.</p>
<p>‘<i>And breathe, count to ten. Allow those worries and anxiety to drift away. Put it in your mental box. Let your mind settle. And… exhale.</i>’</p>
<p>As she releases her breath again, she lets her eyes flutter open. Sunlight spills through the window, gently warming her face and casting golden lines across the cream carpet, relaxing her muscles and filling her with ease.</p>
<p><i>‘Thank you…’</i> Soothing voice lady says. <i>‘You did a great job today…’</i></p>
<p>‘Thank you very much,’ Brooke says, hitting pause on the telly. The soft vibration humming from the coffee table catches her attention, and she reaches for her Blackberry to check the reminder on the screen.</p>
<p><b>Check levels. Injection.</b></p>
<p>Two years in, and it’s routine now. She twists to grab the small pouch from the shelf beneath the coffee table, pulling out the glucose monitor and lancet. She doesn’t really need the reminder anymore, but something always tugs at her mind, telling her that if she were to switch it off, she’d forget.</p>
<p>A quick prick to her fingertip, a drop of blood. She’s learned not to hesitate. It’s miles better to do it before her mind catches up and talks her out of it. It’s never anything more than a sharp pinch, and as always, she curses herself for being such a wimp as she slides a test strip into the monitor, dabs the blood, and waits.</p>
<p><b>4.1</b></p>
<p>It’s low, but manageable. She doesn’t feel like she’s about to pass out and crash to the floor – despite soothing voice lady’s best efforts. So she cleans up, disposes of the needle, and sinks back into the rare quietness of the house. Oliver will be up soon, and Rob too. That’s when the stampede well and truly begins, but for now, she lets her thoughts wander with the silence.</p>
<p>Oh, that delicate sense of freedom.</p>
<p>And then comes the inevitable cry.</p>
<p>She exhales through her nose and struggles to her feet, finally allowing that fart to slip out. She leaves the exercise mat where it is and heads upstairs, hurrying as the crying grows louder with each step.</p>
<p>‘Good morning, handsome,’ she coos as she steps into the bedroom at the top of the stairs and scoops Oliver from his cot. His face is blotchy red as he studies her with a ‘how dare you leave me this long’ face. His tiny fists are balled tight in tantrum. But the moment he’s in her arms, the cries soften.</p>
<p>‘Wow, don’t you look big today? Did you grow in the night? I think you did! Yes, I dooo!’</p>
<p>A tiny sneeze is her answer.</p>
<p>She laughs. ‘Whoopsie daisy,’ she murmurs, pressing her nose to his.</p>
<p>By the time they’re downstairs, Oliver is changed and fed. Rob appears in the kitchen, his voice thick with sleep.</p>
<p>‘Morning, babe. Sorry, I know I look like shite. Head’s bangin’.’</p>
<p>His work trousers are creased, his polo shirt stained, and his hair is a mess. He yawns and stretches, making her grimace. He clearly hasn’t tackled his armpits yet either.</p>
<p>‘Ah, don’t worry. I know you’ll age like fine wine eventually, Mr Keating,’ she chirps, guiding another spoonful of baby food towards Oliver’s wriggling mouth.</p>
<p>‘We’ll both age together like fine wine, soon-to-be Mrs Keating.’ Rob rubs his eyes. ‘Anyway, how’s my little man today?’ His attempt at baby talk is hilariously dreadful.</p>
<p>Brooke glances at the clock. It’s barely seven. ‘You’re up early. Even for you.’</p>
<p>‘Yeah, got to nip to the builder’s yard, then pick up Antony. Want to get as much done at Grace’s before I take the van in for its MOT.’</p>
<p>‘You’ve not forgotten about the nursery meeting?’ she asks, watching his expression.</p>
<p>Blank.</p>
<p>‘Shit, that’s today?’</p>
<p>‘Rob!’</p>
<p>‘I’ll make it work,’ he promises, hands raised. ‘Van’s in at two. If I have to, I’ll bus it and meet you there.’</p>
<p>She studies him, then nods. ‘Good. There are only two spots left, and I don’t want our Oliver missing out.’</p>
<p>‘Me neither, babe!’ He bends to kiss her head. ‘Love you.’ Then, to Oliver, ‘And I love you too, little man!’</p>
<p>He grabs his hi-vis jacket and heads for the door.</p>
<p>‘You stink,’ she calls after him, laughing softly.</p>
<p>‘Oh bugger.’ He stops mid-step. ‘Forgot the deodorant!’</p>
<p>‘Honestly, it’s like having two kids sometimes!’</p>
<p>Rob thunders back upstairs. The pipes groan as water rushes through them, making her feel like she’s trapped in a sinking ship with water rising in the walls. Before she can get another spoonful into Oliver’s mouth, the house shakes again as Rob rushes back downstairs.</p>
<p>‘Right babe, I’m off!’</p>
<p>‘Half four, Rob!’ she yells.</p>
<p>The door slams shut before she gets a reply.</p>
<p>She sighs, turning back to Oliver. His breakfast is now mostly decorating his chin. ‘Right then, let’s get you ready for Nana.’</p>
<p>Upstairs, she stands in tights and a bra, torn between a plain navy blouse and a cream floral one. She’s still weighing her options when the doorbell rings.</p>
<p>‘Hello?’ Jackie calls from below.</p>
<p>Brooke freezes. She must have let herself in. ‘Erm… just a sec!’</p>
<p>She hears footsteps in the hallway. Brooke doesn’t usually mind; she likes that Jackie feels at home enough to waltz in and put the kettle on. There’ve been mornings she’s come downstairs to find her future mother-in-law halfway through a brew with the kitchen surfaces freshly wiped. But today, she wishes she’d knocked.</p>
<p>‘Need a hand?’ Jackie’s voice carries up the stairs.</p>
<p>‘No, thanks, we’re coming!’ Brooke yells back, throwing on the navy blouse just as Oliver sneezes on it.</p>
<p>Cream floral it is.</p>
<p><i>Damn it.</i></p>
<p>A quick change later, her brunette hair still tucked inside her collar, she heads downstairs with Oliver. She and Jackie are close – closer than she is with her own mother, thank God – but not bra-and-bloody-knickers close.</p>
<p>Jackie beams as Brooke hands Oliver over, her smile deepening the fine lines around her eyes and mouth.</p>
<p>‘I’ll miss our afternoons together,’ she says wistfully.</p>
<p><span>‘We’ve been over this. It’s nothing personal,’ Brooke assures her. ‘You’ve been amazing – I don’t think I’d have survived maternity leave without your help. But we were always going to have to make changes when I went back to work. And besides, I’ll still need you to have him on Thursdays when I’m volunteering at the homeless shelter. We just think nursery will be good for him, to be around other kids and learn, you know?’</span></p>
<p>Jackie nods. ‘Our Emma said that about George. Said he was a different lad after a few weeks. Brought home every bug going, mind.’ She winks. ‘Best stock up on cold and flu tablets.’</p>
<p>Brooke groans. ‘Great. Another expense.’</p>
<p>Jackie pats her arm. ‘One more month until full pay again. Hang in there, love. And you know—’</p>
<p>‘For the last time, we don’t want to borrow any money,’ Brooke cuts in. ‘Thank you though. For everything.’</p>
<p>‘My pleasure. And best of luck today.’</p>
<p>‘I’m actually a bit nervous,’ Brooke admits, her gaze flicking to Jackie. Jackie’s eyes soften as she gently rocks Oliver.</p>
<p>‘Don’t worry, love! You’ll be fine. The first day back after maternity is always scary. What time are you due in, anyway?’</p>
<p>A tight knot coils in Brooke’s stomach as she glances at the clock on her phone screen. Her eyes widen. ‘Oh bugger!’ she gasps, realising she’s already late. Jackie quickly covers one of Oliver’s ears.</p>
<p>‘It’s fine,’ Jackie says. ‘I’ll lock up. You go.’</p>
<p>‘Ta, Jackie. I’ll see you later, yeah?’ Brooke calls, slipping her feet into her heels and thrusting her arms through her jacket.</p>
<p>She steps outside, barely sparing a second to feel the warmth of the morning sun.</p>
<p><i>Breathe. Count to ten.</i></p>
<p>With a quick pat of her pocket to check for her keys, she turns on her heel and hurries down the path, completely unaware of the calm, unblinking eyes watching from across the street. The same eyes that have tracked her every move since dawn. Since every dawn for years. Watching the same window, at the same time. Every morning.</p>
<p>Oh, and she <i>will be</i> perfect.</p>
</blockquote>
<hr />
<p><span class="a-text-bold"><br />
<strong>HE WATCHES. HE WAITS. HE WANTS </strong></span><em><strong><span class="a-text-bold a-text-italic">HER</span></strong></em><span class="a-text-bold"><strong>.</strong></span></p>
<p>Brooke Jackson is on the brink.<span></span></p>
<p>She’s struggling to make ends meet, caring for her baby boy while trying to piece together a shattered relationship. When she returns from maternity leave, the company has collapsed, leaving her jobless overnight. Desperate for stability and buried beneath relentless bills, she accepts a job at a small corner shop – her last chance to survive. Until her new boss offers her a lifeline that could wipe away her debts and give her son the life he deserves… at a price.</p>
<p><span class="a-text-bold">Spencer White has been nothing but kind to Brooke.</span><span></span></p>
<p>A friend, a confidant, her boss, and an easy solution to all her financial problems. But beneath the warm smiles and gentle manner lies a dark obsession, one that tightens its grip with every passing day.</p>
<p>When Brooke makes a chilling discovery, she realises she’s been living under a false sense of security. The man she trusted most has been keeping secrets. Dangerous ones.</p>
<p>And now, he’s ready to make sure she understands the truth: They <span class="a-text-bold a-text-italic">belong</span><span> together.</span></p>
<p>No matter <span class="a-text-bold">what it takes</span><span>.</span></p>
<p>And she <em><strong><span class="a-text-bold a-text-italic">will be</span></strong></em><span> perfect.</span></p>
<p><em><strong><span class="a-text-bold">The Shopkeeper</span> is an utterly addictive, heart-pounding <span class="a-text-bold">stalker thriller</span> from the bestselling author of <span class="a-text-bold a-text-italic">One Step Closer</span>.</strong></em></p>
<p>
</div></div><div class="w-separator size_medium"></div><div class="w-btn-wrapper align_none"><a class="w-btn us-btn-style_1" target="_blank" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shopkeeper-deliciously-utterly-addictive-horror-thriller-ebook/dp/B0GFGQ336T/ref=sr_1_10?crid=2I1PWX8RX5NY4&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.tvn_HgAkqDuaJwyEGA7x4qi9rZ9Z6lWVgd__OANhxcsnDAMbtkbBsJOq5elEX3oY_Urmq2Vdc0p-rPPliOSMg6pBxtPL90BnQJezJC0dWeK0HDVigWSLt0zdSao31JhHC3okdoDiA5PzXUpGt0CxLyVO2nzRNxt2DgBjrzC1yD4.ulFucMN8x9_eQ3jmaU2OTfeL2pH7x5YhBQ8YEPoT3F0&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=alex+james+eccleston&amp;qid=1787646449&amp;sprefix=,aps,350&amp;sr=8-10"><span class="w-btn-label">Pre-Order Your Copy Here</span></a></div></div></div></div></div></section></p>
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		<title>New Exclusive Vintage Edition of Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/new-exclusive-vintage-edition-of-nineteen-minutes-to-midnight/</link>
					<comments>https://alexjameseccleston.com/new-exclusive-vintage-edition-of-nineteen-minutes-to-midnight/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 10:23:17 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Features]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Offers]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=1735</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><section class="l-section wpb_row height_auto width_full"><div class="l-section-h i-cf"><div class="g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default"><div class="wpb_column vc_column_container"><div class="vc_column-inner"><div class="wpb_text_column"><div class="wpb_wrapper"></p>
<p class="PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer" data-start="208" data-end="438">I&#8217;ve always loved those old book covers you can often pick up in charity shops. You know the ones&#8230; a little battered around the edges, a tea stain on page 33, the spine <em>extremely</em> slightly creased. Well read. Well loved. Full of character.<span aria-hidden="true" class="PDq2pG_selectionAnchor"></span></p>
<p data-start="440" data-end="499">Well, I&#8217;m excited to announce something a little special&#8230;</p>
<p data-start="501" data-end="620">Whilst a vintage cover isn&#8217;t really on-brand for me, neither is <a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/nineteen-minutes-to-midnight/"><em data-start="565" data-end="595">Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</em></a>&#8230; so I couldn&#8217;t resist.</p>
<p>I wanted to design a cover completely different to what I usually put out. One that reminds me of those battered Stephen King books from the &#8217;80s you often find in old used-book stores. I do happen to have a copy of <em>‘Salem’s Lot</em> on my shelf, which has had such treatment. So I brushed off my old uni design skills, drew something up, played around with the shading, and brought it to life digitally using my handy, always faithful design tool friend, Adobe Illustrator (other design tools are available), digitally enhancing it with colour and adding that nostalgic typography which so many horror-thriller novels used back in the day. I won&#8217;t lie, I was tempted to go with the ITC Benguiat Bold font, but I do believe that has been used elsewhere in the past (about a million times; most notably for the Stranger Things logo and many of King&#8217;s own novels), so I resisted.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p data-start="501" data-end="620">And I&#8217;m pretty chuffed with what I came up with:</p>
<p>
</div></div><div class="w-separator size_medium"></div><div class="w-slider style_none fit_scaledown nav_dots count_2"><div class="w-slider-h" aria-hidden="true"><div class="royalSlider"><div class="rsContent"><a class="rsImg" data-rsw="640" data-rsh="1024" data-rsBigImg="https://alexjameseccleston.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Vintage-Edition-sketch.jpg" href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Vintage-Edition-sketch-640x1024.jpg"><span data-alt=""></span></a></div><div class="rsContent"><a class="rsImg" data-rsw="640" data-rsh="1024" data-rsBigImg="https://alexjameseccleston.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Nineteen-Minutes-Vintage-Edition.jpg" href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Nineteen-Minutes-Vintage-Edition-640x1024.jpg"><span data-alt=""></span></a></div></div><img decoding="async" src="https://alexjameseccleston.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Vintage-Edition-sketch-640x1024.jpg" width="640" height="1024" alt loading="lazy"></div><div class="w-slider-json" data-us-json='{&quot;autoScaleSlider&quot;:true,&quot;addActiveClass&quot;:true,&quot;loop&quot;:true,&quot;fadeInLoadedSlide&quot;:false,&quot;slidesSpacing&quot;:0,&quot;imageScalePadding&quot;:0,&quot;numImagesToPreload&quot;:2,&quot;arrowsNav&quot;:true,&quot;arrowsNavAutoHide&quot;:true,&quot;transitionType&quot;:&quot;fade&quot;,&quot;transitionSpeed&quot;:250,&quot;block&quot;:{&quot;moveEffect&quot;:&quot;none&quot;,&quot;speed&quot;:300},&quot;thumbs&quot;:{&quot;fitInViewport&quot;:false,&quot;firstMargin&quot;:false,&quot;spacing&quot;:4},&quot;controlNavigation&quot;:&quot;bullets&quot;,&quot;autoplay&quot;:{&quot;enabled&quot;:true,&quot;pauseOnHover&quot;:false,&quot;delay&quot;:2000},&quot;fullscreen&quot;:{&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;autoScaleSliderWidth&quot;:640,&quot;autoScaleSliderHeight&quot;:1024}'></div></div><div class="w-separator size_medium"></div><div class="wpb_text_column"><div class="wpb_wrapper"></p>
<p data-start="638" data-end="873">So (professional voice on), I&#8217;m delighted to introduce the <strong data-start="653" data-end="682">exclusive Vintage Edition</strong> of <em data-start="686" data-end="716">Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</em>, is now available <a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/product/nineteeen-minutes-to-midnight-collectors-vintage-edition-paperback/"><strong data-start="334" data-end="368">exclusively through my website</strong></a>.</p>
<p data-start="638" data-end="873">This isn&#8217;t just another paperback. Created especially for collectors and readers who want something unique on their bookshelf, this edition features a <strong data-start="522" data-end="558">brand-new vintage-inspired cover</strong> that won&#8217;t be available anywhere else. Once it&#8217;s gone, it won&#8217;t be reprinted.</p>
<p data-start="638" data-end="873">Whether you&#8217;re discovering Jerome Adewale&#8217;s time-twisting adventure for the first time or returning to the mysterious grandfather clock at nineteen minutes to midnight, this exclusive edition is the perfect way to experience the story.</p>
<p data-start="875" data-end="1032">Printed in the UK on premium eggshell paper with a soft matte finish, the Vintage Edition has been designed to feel every bit as special as the story inside.</p>
<p data-start="1034" data-end="1116">If you&#8217;ve never read <em data-start="1055" data-end="1085">Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</em>, here&#8217;s what you can expect&#8230;</p>
<blockquote data-start="1118" data-end="1490">
<p data-start="1120" data-end="1490"><em data-start="1120" data-end="1490">When sixteen-year-old Jerome Adewale discovers a mysterious grandfather clock that appears every night at exactly nineteen minutes to midnight, he&#8217;s transported to the nineteenth century, where a young Victorian poet and a terrifying supernatural entity are waiting. What follows is a thrilling race across centuries where one wrong decision could destroy time itself.</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p data-start="1492" data-end="1675">Described as <strong data-start="1505" data-end="1553">&#8216;Doctor Who meets The Haunting of Bly Manor&#8217;</strong>, it&#8217;s a fast-paced blend of science fiction, mystery and supernatural horror that&#8217;s become a firm favourite with readers.</p>
<p data-start="1677" data-end="1789">If you&#8217;d like to own this exclusive edition, you can order your copy directly from my website while stocks last.</p>
<p data-start="1791" data-end="1982">Thank you, as always, for supporting my writing. Every direct order helps me continue creating new stories, and I genuinely appreciate every single reader who chooses to buy directly from me.</p>
<p data-start="1984" data-end="2055">I hope you enjoy this special edition as much as I enjoyed creating it.</p>
<p data-start="2057" data-end="2083" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">– <strong data-start="2059" data-end="2083" data-is-last-node="">Alex</strong></p>
<p>
</div></div><div class="w-separator size_medium"></div><div class="w-btn-wrapper align_none"><a class="w-btn us-btn-style_1" href="/product/nineteeen-minutes-to-midnight-collectors-vintage-edition-paperback/"><span class="w-btn-label">Grab your copy here</span></a></div></div></div></div></div></section><section class="l-section wpb_row height_medium"><div class="l-section-h i-cf"><div class="g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default"><div class="wpb_column vc_column_container"><div class="vc_column-inner"></div></div></div></div></section></p>
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		<title>Beta Reader Applications Are Now Open!</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/beta-reader-applications-are-now-open/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:52:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Upcoming releases]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=1704</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[It’s that time again… I’m looking for a team of BETA readers to be among the very first to experience my brand-new crime mystery before anyone else. If you’ve ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process, now’s your chance. This upcoming novel is a tense, fast-paced crime thriller packed with twists, secrets and...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="p1 wp-block-paragraph">It’s that time again…</p>



<p class="p1 wp-block-paragraph">I’m looking for a team of BETA readers to be among the very first to experience my brand-new crime mystery before anyone else.</p>



<p class="p1 wp-block-paragraph">If you’ve ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process, now’s your chance.</p>



<p class="p1 wp-block-paragraph">This upcoming novel is a tense, fast-paced crime thriller packed with twists, secrets and moments that I hope will keep you turning the pages late into the night. While it’s still going through its final stages before publication, I’m looking for honest, enthusiastic beta readers to help me polish it into the strongest book it can be.</p>



<p class="p1 wp-block-paragraph">As a beta reader, you’ll receive an advance copy of the manuscript and be asked to share your thoughts as you read. I’m especially interested in hearing what kept you hooked, whether any twists caught you by surprise, if anything felt confusing or slow, and, most importantly, whether the story kept you guessing until the very end.</p>



<p class="p1 wp-block-paragraph">Your feedback genuinely makes a difference. Every book I’ve published has been improved thanks to the incredible readers who have taken the time to share their thoughts, and I’m so grateful for everyone who volunteers.</p>



<p class="p1 wp-block-paragraph">Applications are now open, but they’ll only be available for a limited time, so don’t leave it too long if you’re interested.</p>



<p class="p1 wp-block-paragraph">Thank you, as always, for your continued support. I can’t wait to share this story with you.</p>



<div class="wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/beta-readers/">Sign up now!</a></div>
</div>
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		<title>The Girl Who Lives By The Sea is Out Now!</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/the-girl-who-lives-by-the-sea-is-out-now/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2026 07:16:22 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[New Releases]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Romance]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=1693</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[I’m so excited to finally share that The Girl Who Lives By The Sea is now available! This story has been incredibly close to my heart. Set in a quiet Cornish village, it’s a tender romance wrapped around family secrets, first love, grief, and the search for where we truly belong. It’s a little different...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="p1">I’m so excited to finally share that <span class="s1"><b><a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/the-girl-who-lives-by-the-sea/">The Girl Who Lives By The Sea</a></b></span> is now available!</p>
<p class="p1">This story has been incredibly close to my heart. Set in a quiet Cornish village, it’s a tender romance wrapped around family secrets, first love, grief, and the search for where we truly belong. It’s a little different from my previous thrillers, but I hope you’ll fall in love with Mia and Luke’s story just as much as I have.</p>
<p class="p1">Even better, <span class="s1"><b><a href="https://amzn.eu/d/06SGQifh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Girl Who Lives By The Sea is available to read with Kindle Unlimited</a></b></span>, so if you’re a subscriber, you can dive straight in at no extra cost.</p>
<p class="p1">Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. Every preorder, purchase, page read, review and recommendation means more than you know.</p>
<p class="p1">I can’t wait to hear what you think.</p>
<p class="p1">Happy reading!</p>
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		<title>50,000 orders! 🤯</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/50000-orders/</link>
					<comments>https://alexjameseccleston.com/50000-orders/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 09:13:35 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog Posts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=1653</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[So, yesterday, I checked the total orders for One Step Closer since release in October 2025. I knew I was getting close to the big &#8217;50&#8217; – but I&#8217;ll be honest, I had to take a moment to stare at the screen and take it in. 50,000 orders. Wow. Even now, I&#8217;m still trying to...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>So, yesterday, I checked the total orders for <a href="https://alexjameseccleston.com/books/one-step-closer/">One Step Closer</a> since release in October 2025.</p>
<p>I knew I was getting close to the big &#8217;50&#8217; – but I&#8217;ll be honest, I had to take a moment to stare at the screen and take it in.</p>
<p><strong>50,000 orders.</strong></p>
<p>Wow. Even now, I&#8217;m still trying to get my head around it.</p>
<p>Is it bad that my first thought was: I just hope I caught all those bloody typos!</p>
<p>But seriously, when I made the decision to return to indie publishing with this book, there was definitely a part of me that wondered if I was making the right choice. Self-publishing means juggling a lot of balls, clubs&#8230; tennis rackets I guess? What I mean is you&#8217;re not only the author. You’re responsible for the covers, formatting, ads, marketing, websites, social media, newsletters, algorithms, release strategies, pricing, audiobook commissions, FUNDING THE WHOLE THING… and breathe.</p>
<p>At times, it can put you off a bit.</p>
<p>I won&#8217;t lie, there are times (especially before a book&#8217;s release) when I think: why am I bothering?</p>
<p>But over the past few months, I’ve learned so much. Probably more than I ever expected to. Not just about publishing, but about readers too. About what connects with people. About building something slowly over time instead of expecting overnight success.</p>
<p>I very nearly went down the traditional publishing route for this. But as I&#8217;ve stated in previous blog posts, having tried traditional (and having been lucky enough to be given the opportunity), I decided it simply isn&#8217;t for me.</p>
<p>I am comfortable formatting my books, self-coding ebooks, designing my own covers. These are skills I use in my day job, and I&#8217;m fortunate enough to be able to save quite a lot of money not having to go out and commission these services.</p>
<p>Still, editors are priceless&#8230; but don&#8217;t come cheap!</p>
<p>But one of the biggest lessons for me since publishing One Step Closer has been self-promotion.</p>
<p>That’s something a lot of writers struggle with, myself included. Putting your work out there can feel uncomfortable. Every book I write is an expression of myself, and there’s always that little voice wondering whether I&#8217;m annoying the hell out of everybody; posting too much, talking about my books all the time. But I’ve realised something important: if you genuinely care about the stories you write, you should be proud to talk about them.</p>
<p>Because if you don’t believe in your own work, why should anyone else?</p>
<p>I still feel like I’m learning every single day, and I know I’ve only scratched the surface of what’s possible as an indie author. But hitting 50,000 orders for One Step Closer has really reminded me why I came back to this side of publishing in the first place. There’s something incredibly rewarding about building this career yourself, connecting directly with readers, and seeing people support stories you poured your heart into.</p>
<p>So if you’ve bought one of my books, shared a post, left a review, recommended my work to someone else, or even just followed my journey quietly in the background… thank you. Truly.</p>
<p>I don’t think I’ll ever fully process that 50,000 people took a chance on one of my stories.</p>
<p>And the exciting part is, I feel like I’m only just getting started.</p>
<p>I genuinely can’t wait to take everything I’ve learned and pour it into the next books.</p>
<p>Watch this space!</p>
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		<title>Nineteen Mintues To Midnight (Combined Edition)</title>
		<link>https://alexjameseccleston.com/nineteen-mintues-to-midnight-combined-edition/</link>
					<comments>https://alexjameseccleston.com/nineteen-mintues-to-midnight-combined-edition/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[aj_eccleston]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 08:09:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[News & Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Upcoming releases]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://alexjameseccleston.com/?p=1630</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Exciting times over here – and this is something I’ve been wanting to share for a long time. Nineteen Minutes to Midnight is being rereleased as one complete novel… exactly as it was always meant to be. When the story was first written, it existed as a single, continuous narrative. However, due to a publishing...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="p1">Exciting times over here – and this is something I’ve been wanting to share for a long time.</p>
<p class="p1"><i>Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</i> is being rereleased as one complete novel… exactly as it was always meant to be.</p>
<p class="p1">When the story was first written, it existed as a single, continuous narrative. However, due to a publishing decision at the time, it was split into two separate books: <span class="s1"><i>Nineteen Minutes to Midnight</i></span> and <span class="s1"><i>Gone Midnight</i></span>. While that version found its readers (and I’m incredibly grateful for every single one of you), it was never quite the story in its truest form.</p>
<p class="p1">Now, that’s changing.</p>
<p class="p1">This new edition, published under my own imprint, AJE Press, brings the story back together – restoring the pacing, tension, and emotional journey exactly as it was originally written. No breaks. The full experience, from beginning to end.</p>
<p class="p1">For me, this isn’t just a rerelease. It’s a return to the story as it was always intended to be read.</p>
<p class="p1">If you’ve read both books before, this will feel like rediscovering the story in a whole new way. And if you’re coming to it for the first time, you’ll be experiencing it exactly as I imagined it from the very beginning.</p>
<p class="p1">There’s more to come very soon, including release details, cover reveals, and what this means for existing editions – so keep an eye out.</p>
<p>This is only the beginning&#8230;</p>
<p class="p1">Thank you, as always, for being part of this journey.</p>
<p class="p2">Alex</p>
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