Now that my second book has been published, I've been looking for some different artistic outlets to give my brain a new challenge.

My bedroom was redecorated earlier this year and in late summer I became bored with staring at a blank white wall. I had planned to buy a large bright artwork to break things up and provide something more interesting to look at.

Then I thought, why don't I just give it a go myself?

I've always been impressed by trompe l'oeil paintings - images that literally 'trick the eye' - but never contemplated attempting one myself.

However, that blank wall in my room was a tempting canvas.

My niece decided to add her own details to the painting. 

Fortunately, there wasn't any paint on the brush.

The view from my bedroom is now much improved and makes me feel as if it's summer all the time.