Thursday 18/09/14

Beyond fashion preference, your choice of shoes might seem insignificant in the urban environment. On smooth, flat, even ground, you'd be right. Open toed sandals, or light weight shoes made from a breathable material are a great choice for wearing around town.

But once you leave the well maintained footpaths of suburbia and tread into the countryside, your choice of shoe becomes a little more important. A sturdy sole with a solid tread pattern is far more practical than a smooth soled office shoe. A durable sole stops sharp objects from penetrating your foot. (I learned that the hard way as a teenager when a 6 inch rusty nail went through the sole of my sneaker, and into my foot).

The lightweight, breathable material used for sneakers works wonders when you're running time trials on the track; but will do precious little to protect your foot from sharp sticks or jagged rocks when you're climbing over rough terrain.

Boots that come up over your ankle will help prevent an injury if you are unfortunate enough to roll your ankle (yeah, I learned that the hard way too). And don't forget, snake bites tend to happen on the lower portion of people's legs (leather boots to the rescue).

Even from a self-defence perspective, boots make a lot of sense. Lightweight sneakers will provide your feet with about the same amount of protection as a pair of slippers.

Hopefully, the next time you head out from the urban environment, you'll be a little more mindful of your choice of footwear.

 

When I wrote this story, I wanted it to be unique. Ignoring the fact that the book is about zombies, I've tried to keep the story as realistic as possible.

The book is set in Australia, and in Australia we have very strict laws governing gun control and gun ownership, so there is no way the main character could stumble across the caches of high-powered (and often military grade) firearms that appear in other stories of this genre. So no; there probably won't be head-shot after head-shot to eliminate the approaching wave of undead. (Have you ever tried to shoot a target about the size of a cantaloupe? Now put that target 50 or 100 or 200 or even 500 meters away. Now get this tiny target to wobble along at an unsteady shamble. Now factor in a cross breeze. That sort of targeting is the stuff of legends. I know I couldn't pull it off; I haven't had that level of training).

The main character in my story has to rely on basic disaster preparedness training as well as self-defense training. The same sort of training that is available to any member of the public if they are willing to dedicate the time to learn.

The story starts in Sydney, Australia; but I can't disclose where it goes from there without giving away too much, or even the ending.

I found the biggest challenge was writing the self-defense and fight sequences. Teaching self-defense is easy. Putting it into words was difficult.

The best way for other people to discover the book and to decide if it is of interest to them, is by reviews from people like you who have already read it. I encourage everyone who reads my book to give an honest review at the online store where you purchased it; eg Amazon, iBooks, Barnes & Noble etc. Also, if you're a member of Goodreads please leave a copy of your review there too.

 

31/03/2020

Things are serious folks. The enemy is formless, odorless, and invisible; but we are not helpless. The situation is not hopeless. This is a fight we can win. If we continue to remain in our homes as directed, continue practicing social distancing, and making sure you wash your hands regularly.

Take care of yourselves. Remember to eat properly, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly. Social isolation is not an excuse to avoid exercise. Social isolation is not an excuse to let your brain turn to mush; read, research, and engage in intelligent conversation.

Regularly call your friends and family to make sure they are OK. A friendly voice on the phone can make a huge difference to someone's psychological well-being. Don't overlook the importance of specifically asking if they are OK. It may encourage them to ask for help if they need it.

As long as we support each other, and show compassion to each other, we will get through this. COVID-19 will not last forever.

 

22/03/2020

I finally pushed through my writer's block and come up with an ending for the short story I've been writing. My book of short stories is finally back on track. I'm a very happy camper.

 

13/02/2020

Hi everyone. I have a new project in the works with Burn House Books to help my books gain a foothold in the International market. I hope you’ll help make this project a success by sharing these updates on your social media pages.

Check out the link to Burn House Books here: https://burnhousepublishing.com

 

 

10/01/2020

It’s been a while since my last post, but I’ve kept busy. Unfortunately I haven’t had much time for writing this year (for which I apologise), but the renovations are finally finished. I’m going to take care of a few other things, then ease myself back into writing.

A couple of weeks ago I finally returned to my paintbrushes after a 15 year absence, and finally painted a few wargaming miniatures (yeah yeah, I know; big surprise I like geeky things – and an even bigger surprise, the first thing I paint is some zombies). To give you an idea of the challenge involved, these miniatures are only an inch tall. I had to retrain my hand/eye coordination, and learn to be patient (with the paint, and myself). The opportunity to just focus on such tiny canvases helps me forget about things for a while.

I hope you are all well, and I look forward to returning to my manuscript in the next couple of weeks. I’m really happy with what I’ve written so far, and look forward to sharing it with you soon.

 

 

 

03/07/2019

I'm very excited to announce that my first book Sleep With One Eye Open has been selected to appear on the Ezvid Wiki page "Books With Inventive Takes on the Zombie Genre". Only 11 books were selected for this honour, and mine was the only Australian inclusion.

Established in 2011, Ezvid Wiki has grown from a small user-generated forum into the largest and most comprehensive video wiki on the planet, providing useful, unbiased information and actionable guidance to hundreds of millions of people around the world, in thousands of knowledge categories. It is now among the top 3000 websites in the United States. Their YouTube channel has over 425 000 subscribers and more than 250 million views since founding.

As an Indie author, this is a fantastic opportunity to share my work with a wider audience. Please click on the link below to read the article and watch the video that my book is now featured in:

https://wiki.ezvid.com/m/11-books-with-inventive-takes-on-the-zombie-genre-eJQn_YJs-PLMG

 

09/06/2019

Fear not; book four in the series is still a work in progress. Working full time, home renovations, and adulting take up most of my time, but I still manage to write a little each day.


Watch this space for future updates.

 

 

03/11/2018

Good evening everyone,

Just a quick update on the renovations. So far there haven’t been any major catastrophes, and all is going well. There has been plenty of hard work, a few good laughs, and a few interesting visitors along the way.


Our local water dragon has also taken an interest in our activities (I nearly didn’t see him watching me from the garden while I was pouring paint).


We’ve still got a lot of work ahead of us, but we’re still in good spirits.


(Photo: Beau Johnston)

IMG 1710b

 

 

 

22/09/2018

IMG 1553b

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I just checked into a lovely B&B for the weekend. The bathroom is a little sketchy though. The last time I saw décor like this was on one of those “unsolved murder” shows on TV.

Just kidding. In addition to working full time and having to fulfil the endless cycle of daily chores, I’m also renovating my house (..... in all my spare time..... ha-ha-ha-ha).

I won’t bore you with the details, but it has drastically reduced the amount of time I have for writing.

But fear not..... reduced doesn’t mean “none at all”. I’m currently writing my fourth book, and I’m pleased with my progress. I’ve finished five short stories, and still have many more tales to tell.

There is still a lot of work to do around the house, but I will do my best to keep you up to date with my progress on book four.

 

 

05/07/2018

I regret to announce that I must take a break from writing my monthly blog. I have had to make several changes in my life which will give me more time to devote to writing books. I want to thank everyone for the support and encouragement they have given me over the last four years.

Please be sure to check this page regularly for updates about my books and other projects. 

 

 

03/12/2017

After two long years of hard work, I am proud to present my third book Sleep One Eye Open: Shadow. My original plan was finish and publish the manuscript in 2016; but sometimes, life has its own agenda. When that happens, you just have to go with the flow. So, thank you to you, my readers, for your patience.

Sleep With One Eye Open: Shadow is a dark and disturbing glimpse into the Zombie Apocalypse. There will be cheers, and tears, and probably a few emails asking me why I..... actually, that would be telling. I’ll let you find out for yourselves.

Sleep With One Eye Open - Synopsis

Life has never been fair, but the Zombie Apocalypse ensures the odds are always tipped in the Grim Reaper’s favour. John fought alone, fought hard and won against a cunning and vicious enemy. Life was supposed to reward him for his courage and tenacity. Unfortunately, reports of his skirmishes have come to the attention of a new enemy.

The home he fought so hard to defend is no longer safe. Hordes of zombies are pouring in from the south and well-armed enemies lurk in the shadows.

Join John and his family in this latest chapter of their struggle to survive a nightmarish world of never-ending fear, hunger and death.

Tonight, 'Sleep With One Eye Open: Shadow' is available on Kindle, Kobo, and iBooks. Tomorrow, it shall also be available in paperback.

http://beaujohnston.com.au/index.php/sample-chapters
http://beaujohnston.com.au/index.php/buy-now

 

17/09/2017

I estimate I am only eight weeks away from publishing my third book in the Sleep With One Eye Open series. So today I am sharing a sneak peek of the cover for Sleep With One Eye Open: Shadow.

I apologise for taking so long to get to this point, but very soon you will be taking a dark and disturbing trip into the Zombie Apocalypse.

SWOEO Shadow sml

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Photo: Beau Johnston)
(Graphic Artist: Lisa Johnston)

 

24/01/2016

If you blinked you missed it! The price drop is over, but you can still pick up your new favourite zombie book for a few dollars. Go on, read a book this weekend, and lose yourself in the story.

 

 

16/01/2016

PRICE DROP! 'Sleep With One Eye Open' and 'Sleep With One Eye Open: Ghost' are now available on Kindle, Kobo and iBooks for $4.00 each. Yes, you read that right; $4.00 each. For the spare change in your pocket you can download and read your new favorite horror story. What are you waiting for?

 

 

25/12/2015

I’d like to thank everyone who has purchased or read my books this year. Fear not, your journey is not over; book number three is progressing nicely, so I look forward to giving you dark and disturbing nightmares in the new year. I’d also like to thank everyone who reads my blog. I hope I’ve given you information that has kept you safe, and entertained.

 

May peace, happiness and goodwill be with you and your family this Christmas. I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

 

28/10/2015

Good evening everyone. Due to a huge increase in my workload, I have finally had to accept that there are only 24 hours in each day. It is with great reluctance that I must reduce the frequency of my blog from once a week to once a month.

Until further notice, blog night will now be on the 2nd Thursday of every month. I thank everyone for their loyalty, and understanding of my decision.

 

 

05/10/2015

Good afternoon one and all. I just received an email to let me know this month's edition of Sinister Reads is up for all to enjoy. I'm proud to say my second novel Sleep With One Eye Open: Ghost is featured in this issue.

Sinister Reads is a project managed by the Australian Horror Writers Association (AHWA) used to promote the work of its members.

https://sinisterreads.wordpress.com/

 

 

19/09/2015

Great news, my new book Sleep With One Eye Open: Ghost is now available at even more retailers. Head to our Buy Now! page to purchase your copy now!

 

 

31/08/2015

Good evening everyone. I promised you big news and here it is. Today, my second novel Sleep With One Eye Open: Ghost was published. It is currently available on Kindle, iBooks, and kobo.

We are currently waiting for the proof copy to arrive from the printer. Once we have that, physical copies will soon be available.

I'd like to thank everyone for their support, encouragement and feedback over the last couple of years.

 

 

23/08/2015

I am extremely happy to announce that I have finished the fifth and final edit of Sleep With One Eye Open: Ghost. The manuscript is now in the hands of my editor for final review before going to print.

 

 

01/08/2015

Here it is everyone, a sneak preview of the cover of Sleep With One Eye Open: Ghost. I'm happy to say that I'm in the final stages of editing now.

title final final compressed

 

 

27/07/2015

Excellent news; I just finished the 3rd (and hopefully final) edit of Sleep With One Eye Open: Ghost. Final read begins. If all goes well, I'm hoping the eBook version will be out in the next 14 days, and the paperback shouldn't be too far behind (depending on how long it takes to get a proof copy in the post).

 

 

17/03/2015

Make sure you never miss another blog or news article again by subscribing to my webpage. Each feed had its own subscription. You know the drill; fill in the box on the right (and the one on the blog page too); then you can take it easy, knowing you'll always be up to date with what I've been doing. Be the first to know of price changes, release dates and future events.

 

 

12/03/2015

Congratulations readers! Chapter two is now up for you to further whet your appetites for this great novel. Just click the "Sample Chapters" tab.

 

 

14/12/2014

This weekend we went scouting for suitable locations for photos for the front cover of the sequel to Sleep With One Eye Open. Despite a lack of cooperation from mother nature (very hot day with annoying intermittent rain!) and passing motorists we got some great shots.

 

 

09/11/2014

Wow! Sleep With One Eye Open is now available at Barnes and Noble, a very old and well known bookstore. Use the link below to get your paperback copy. Also available from Tower Books, a book retailer in the UK.

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sleep-with-one-eye-open-beau-johnston/1120427742?ean=9781494811778

http://www.tower.com/sleep-with-one-eye-open-beau-johnston-paperback/wapi/124682728

 

 

05/11/2014

More good news for everyone! Two more retailers are selling paperback versions of my novel Sleep With One Eye Open. Book Depository is well known by everyone, mostly because of their large range and free postage. Kinokuniya Sydney offers the largest range of books with over 300,000 titles in English, Japanese, Chinese, French and German.

http://www.bookdepository.com/Sleep-with-One-Eye-Open-Beau-Johnston/9781494811778

https://australia.kinokuniya.com/bw/9781494811778

 

 

03/11/2014

Good news for my Australian readers! I just found a couple of Australian retail outlets that are selling the paperback version of Sleep With One Eye Open.

http://www.bookworld.com.au/books/sleep-with-one-eye-open-beau-johnston/p/9781494811778

http://www.angusrobertson.com.au/books/sleep-with-one-eye-open-beau-johnston/p/9781494811778

http://www.holisticpage.com.au/sleep-with-one-eye-open-beau-johnston/9781494811778

 

 

 

12/10/2014

Web Site Update!

Great news everyone. My web guru added a new feature to my blog allowing you to share my blog on your Google+ and Facebook pages with just the click of a button. At the bottom of each post you'll notice this new feature. Please use this plug-in to share information that is important to you, or may help your friends and family.

 

 

 

19/09/2014

Good news everyone, Sleep With One Eye Open has been reduced in price; and is now available for:

$6.99 on Kindle, iBooks and Kobo
$9.99 for paperback (only available at Amazon.com)

 

http://www.amazon.com/Sleep-With-One-Eye-Open-ebook/dp/B00I0YPR0G

https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/sleep-with-one-eye-open/id877198278?mt=11

http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/sleep-with-one-eye-open