A message, an apology to all of you from Jo Cox.

Hi there! I'm told some of you are getting impatient to know what's going on with me at the minute, so I'm taking a minute or two out of writing your new book, so I can bring you all up to speed. (If the book is late in February, it's your fault and not mine!)

Anyway, I've been beavering away as you must know (slavedrivers the lot of you) and you will be shocked, thrilled and absolutely delighted with the new hardback (Blood Brothers) in February 2010.

So, what have I been doing? The patio has been relaid, because the land was built up just there, and the entire thing was beginning to sink at every corner. If it had gone on like that, I'd have been feeding next door's cat one day and the pair of us would have disappeared forever!

Yesterday I was at Hampton Court and was presented with the most beautiful rose which was named after me - Rosa Josephine. It's deep red and the blossom is over six inches in diameter (awesome!) And I still can't imagine why I deserve it; there are more deserving people than me out there I'm sure.

I had my brother Bernard down for the weekend and he drove me round the twist as always. (I do love the little fat lump though).

Anyway, not much more to tell, because I'm nearly always locked in my office writing away, creating characters committing murder; making love; causing mayhem and going through every draining emotion known to man. It's a wonder they haven't carted me off before now.

Got to go my darlings! My stomach is playing a tune, telling me I need a sandwich and a cuppa. What bliss!

Love you all, but you already know that. So look after yourselves and don't forget to watch out for my tours this autumn. (See Chatterbox for more details) and if you don't already receive it, write to HarperCollins with your name and address get onto the list!

Bye for now, and thanks for your much appreciated loyalty as always.

Jo x