Like everybody else I know, I have no problem with what faith people have. I want to live in a tolerant world where people are free to enjoy their religion and take comfort from their beliefs.  Tolerance surely has to be the most important aspect of life and sadly one which, in certain parts of the world, is in decline. I looked up its meaning – “broad-minded” “understanding” “charitable”  – imagine a world where these principles took precedence.

Faith can turn to intolerance when the fundamentalists take control. Fundamentalism is most often based on a perverted idea of religion. It warps people’s minds to such an extent that they justify any action, any atrocity in the name of their God. The beliefs of others are despised. The accident of which clan you are born into (jew,muslim,catholic,protestant) predetermines who you are told to hate.

A new year has just started and already we have had serious terrorist attacks in both Mali and Algeria. And on our doorstep more vitriol in Northern Ireland. Less serious perhaps but for those of us who remember the horror and the killings, it is a warning that hatred can always be resurrected.

This may seem a rather sombre note for my first blog of 2013. Having had a wonderful family Christmas, I am passionate about wanting a better world for my children and grandchildren. We need to work together and confront the truth.

For authors like me – writers of fiction, I can base my books on the reality of our times, hopefully entertain the reader and also bring to people’s attention what we are facing.

Take a look at Debacle, Mayhem, Chaos, Havoc, Turmoil and Corruption. You will see that the backgrounds to the books are based on fact.

Mayhem is being promoted on Kindle this weekend and will be free. The baddies are fundamentalists determined to promote their way of life.  Which fundamentalists? Read it to find out!