New cover for The Birdwatcher's Wife

HATS off to author Gayle Smith Padgett for a smart initiative.

Last year, she published her book, The Birdwatcher's Wife, to favourable reviews from blogger Mark Avery and others (including one in this forum).

But many potential readers were slightly confused, thinking it might a novel rather than what it actually is - an account of the birdwatching activities in France, partly of her and partly of her husband, Ralph.

The witty and fast-paced narrative also takes in plenty of other experiences - for instance, enjoying superb food and wine, visiting street markets and philosophising on French women's love affair with quality-made lingerie.

Gayle has now put things right by selecting both  a new cover picture and, more importantly,  a sub-title which clarifies the content of the book.

So good luck to the author, and here's hoping that it will lead to a boost in sales.