Author Spotlight: P.A. Ruddock
Our very first author spotlight goes to P.A. Ruddock. I met P.A. through a Facebook group that he had created. It’s honestly one of the most supportive and engaging groups I’ve had the pleasure to belong to. It’s a small-ish group of authors, so it’s easy to get to know those who are active. I feel I was blessed to be invited to mingle with such gracious and caring individuals. So, I wanted to do something special for the man who created the group. Thank you, P.A.!
P.A. Ruddock
Born in London, the United Kingdom, P.A. Ruddock has in his time been a soldier, studied psychology at Middlesex University, worked in accountancy, and has recently retired from the railway industry. He currently lives in the UK, dividing his time between London and Wales. A widower, middle-aged, with one grown-up son, and, in his own words, the most adorable grandson and baby granddaughter in all the world.
When not writing or working he is a keen outdoor enthusiast, enjoying nothing more than walking, climbing, wild camping, and cycling in the British countryside, particularly North & South Wales and the Highlands of Scotland.
In addition to his first book, ‘Not What You Thought? And Other Surprises,’ he is also a prolific blogger and book reviewer. Following the publication of his first anthology, he hopes to develop and pursue a writing career. He is currently working on a further three books. One is another anthology of ‘Rat’ themed semi-horror stories, and the other two, dark crime/psychological thrillers.
Author Spotlight: P.A. Ruddock @EchoesOfThePen #books #horror #fiction #AddictiveReads Click To Tweet
P.A. Ruddock has one published book of short stories, Not What You Thought? and other surprises. Royalties from this anthology go to various military service related charities.
A varied collection of flash fiction and short stories, mostly funny, some sad, and others more dramatic and poignant.
From the humour of several twist in the tale type stories to those of the harsh realities of the world we live in, a collection to both entertain and keep the reader guessing. Among such stories: a drastic way of dealing with those annoying cold callers that plague our peace and quiet, poetic justice for those who would profit from the suffering of others, the touching story of how a father helps his young son come to terms with the death of his mother, and a husband’s unique way of saying goodbye.
There are also an additional ten stories from five very talented guest authors, including a hilarious account of an April fool’s joke, a couple of very funny stories and some hard hitting stories of comeuppance, and an intriguing story of a businessman’s unexpected but very welcome encounter with a beautiful young woman.
These and many more…
*With guest contributions from the following authors:
Tom Benson – Lesley Hayes – Peter Nena – John M.W. Smith – Matthew Williams
You can purchase Not What You Thought? anthology at the links below:
Amazon UK Amazon US
P.A. Ruddock also has stories in the following anthologies:
You’re Not Alone: An Indie Author Anthology
The Welcome: and other Sci-Fi stories
Holes: An Indie Author Anthology
Personal note: I have read many of P.A.’s short stories over the past year (including the anthology, Not What You Thought?) and I have to say I have been delighted by them all. He’s a master short story writer – making the characters and action come to life in few words. That’s very difficult to do and not everyone does it well. But, P.A. does. His scenes are rich and vivid and his work is full of twists you don’t see coming. He has a great sense of humor and I’ve laughed out loud many times while reading. He has a way with horror and humor, often combining the two for very enjoyable reads.
You can find out more about P.A. Ruddock at his websites, where you can read some great stories for free.


11 Comments
echoesofthepen
What can I say other than to say thank you such kind words,,you’ve just made my day 😊😊😊
Rhonda
You’re welcome, Paul! 🙂
lesleysky
I love Paul Ruddock’s short stories. He always manages a twist in the tale you weren’t able to predict. He is also a generous supporter of other writers, and much valued by fellow authors both as a scribe and a friend.
Rhonda
Absolutely, Lesley! 🙂
echoesofthepen
Gosh, I don’t know what say, but thank you …
Tom
A well-deserved showcase for the founder of our Indie Author Support and Discussion group. A nicer guy to honour would be hard to find.
Thank you on behalf of all those who don’t pass this way to read the post, Rhonda. 🙂
Rhonda
Thank you, Tom! He is such a nice guy. As are you and the rest of those in our group. 🙂
echoesofthepen
Aww, thanks, Tom, right nice comment, cheers …
http21211authorsarahstuart
It would be enough for one lifetime to have founded a group like this one, but I’ve yet to read any of the short stories. About that TBR list… I’ll have to add a book. I find short stories incredibly difficult, but if Lesley says they are good, they’re good – hers are.
Rhonda
His short stories really are good. Twists I don’t see coming! 🙂
Rebecca Caerter
With a story like “a drastic way of dealing with those annoying cold callers that plague our peace and quiet” I couldn’t help myself. I went out and bought the book! Will read and review when I have a chance.