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Samantha Mattocks

Award-winning author and journalist, creator of the Magical Mister Mishkins™ series

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Ekstern I Tribute to the King

by Samantha Mattocksupdated on 22 May, 202427 September, 2023 Leave a Comment on Ekstern I Tribute to the King

Ekstern I Tribute to the King was launched in Aachen over the weekend.

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I just missed the Flower Moon rising tonight, but I just missed the Flower Moon rising tonight, but it was worth the ten minute wait for this incredible sight to reappear from behind the cloud. The moon is so large tonight, it is as though you can reach out and touch it. Make a wish 🌙
And just like that, we are in May. Can someone p And just like that, we are in May. Can someone please let me know where the first third of the year has gone? It seems to have slipped through my fingers like quicksilver, impossible to hold and to recover once gone. Are you feeling that way too? We are now into the first of the summer according to the old ways; today is Beltane, the Gaelic May Day festival that marks the beginning of summer. It is also historically one of my favourite months of the year, and I am hopeful that this year will deliver one more. I am busy with books and writing, but also planning the upcoming launch of Nero the Hero and much more besides. As ever - watch this space, and do sign up to my newsletter to be the first to know about things! https://samanthamattocks.com/subscribe-to-samanthas-newsletter Diary dates: I will be on the Local Flavours stage at the Beccles Food & Drink Festival on 23 May, cooking up a storm with some amazing produce from Old Hall Farm; and then 31 May, I will be at the Anglian Authors Fair at the gorgeous Sudbury Arts Centre. I hope to see you at either or both of these. Do let me know your plans for May. Have an amazing month. Samantha xx
What a beautiful spot to sit and pause. I am waiti What a beautiful spot to sit and pause. I am waiting for my dad and found this perfect place to sit a while. Just lately, I have had a longing to be outside with the wind in my hair. The cool breeze reviving and refreshing after what feels like the longest slumber. The rustle of the trees could be secret whispers from those gone before, ready to impart their wisdom - if only we stop and listen. I am eternally grateful for moments of calm such as this, just letting nature do its miraculous thing around me while I rest, reset, and refresh, leaving me ready for the next challenge.
Writing days with this one... The @magicalmistermi Writing days with this one... The @magicalmistermishkins tends to curl up behind me and sleep, but every so often, he demands affection and a cuddle. Trying to take a selfie with him was a fun challenge and he wanted to look anywhere but ahead, but we got there in the end!
I love this time of year so much as nature bursts I love this time of year so much as nature bursts into life. The iris is one of my favourite flowers, and the colours of this one are so elegant. Time for a quiet Sunday evening ahead of what looks set to be a very busy week. Have a lovely evening all. Samantha xx
What a gorgeous way to spend a Friday, wandering a What a gorgeous way to spend a Friday, wandering around Halesworth and enjoying the sunshine. I was with my dear friend @paulasmith.2025 and we had a lovely wander around the many independent shops before treating ourselves to coffee and cake @blackdogdelihalesworth - espresso financier and sour cherry bakewell. We shared, of course. Half and half, so we had the best of both worlds. Halesworth was wonderful. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly, and the glorious sunshine truly was the icing on the cake! Fridays don't come much better than this. Heaven 🧡
Some heroes have paws, a beard, and a bark... Intr Some heroes have paws, a beard, and a bark... Introducing Nero the Hero! Prepare to meet your new favourite superhero as Nero the Hero reveals his secret! Pre-order your copy today: https://www.thegreatbritishbookshop.co.uk/products/nero-the-hero "A charming story with plenty of heart," C Povey. Nero is no ordinary dog. This miniature schnauzer has a beard, a bark, and a secret. When danger strikes, he transforms into Nero the Hero, a powerful protector with extraordinary abilities. Alongside his human, twelve-year-old Jack, Nero dives into fast-paced adventures filled with mystery, heart, and just a touch of fun. But when Jack makes a brave mistake and finds himself in real danger, Nero must face his greatest challenge yet to save his best friend alone. Perfect for readers aged 8-12, this highly illustrated chapter book blends action-packed fantasy with an engaging, accessible style, making it ideal for reluctant readers and confident young bookworms alike. With short chapters and dynamic illustrations, Nero the Hero is a thrilling start to a children’s fantasy series about friendship, bravery, and daring rescues. Fans of Claude and The Hounds of Penhallow Hall will love this action-filled adventure starring a heroic dog and the boy who believes in him. From the author of the popular Magical Mister Mishkins series, Samantha Mattocks introduces a bold new hero first seen in The Magic of Mister Mishkins. Beautifully illustrated by Gerda Smit, this is a story full of adventure, loyalty, and the power of believing in something extraordinary.
Something new is coming... Time to meet your new Something new is coming... Time to meet your new hero - Nero the Hero! The latest book from Samantha Mattocks, author of The Magical Mister Mishkins series. Out 25 June - pre-order now!
I have never been an artist. That kind of creativi I have never been an artist. That kind of creativity and me have never gone hand in hand. But I always wanted to try. I'd doodle and draw - generally shapes where only I recognised the meaning. Two years ago, I began to try watercolour but something happened that made me stop. A friend of a friend came along this year and not only gave me a lesson, but also a gift bag of paints, brushes, paper and more. Most days, I try to create something. Some watercolours are more successful than others. But there is something I rather love about the cats I am painting, and it felt only fitting that this be my first brave step to share. Thank you @michellemouldartist for the guidance and inspiration, and @paulasmith.2025 for being an amazing friend to us both. Happy Saturday, Samantha xx
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