AN Essex-based author's new book launch is a success.

Sam Scott, from Wickham Bishops, celebrated the launch of her first published children's book at the weekend.

Sam has been a writer on-and-off for around 14 years.

She has signed a three-book deal with Stanhope Books, and recently launched the first instalment in the series.

Sophie Spirit and the Batting Manor Mystery, inspired by a young girl who Sam met, is about a deaf girl with a rare medical condition.

The main character, Sophie meets three spirits who she befriends and helps to fight the evil forces working against them.

Read more: Author publishes first children's book with Great Totham launch

The book was released on July 26, however the official book launch was on Saturday, August 14.

The event celebrating Sam's first children's book was held at the Prince of Wales pub in Great Totham.

Sam said the launch "couldn't have gone better".

She added: "It was lovely, it was the first time I was able to feel excited, and pleased about everything."

Sam also had a special surprise in store for her guests, a reading of the book by a girl named Emily.

Despite having never done something like this before, Sam said Emily showed such confidence.

"She was an absolute superstar."

The author also revealed another book, more aimed at older children and teenagers, is set to be published at the end of this year, or beginning of next year.

For more information on Sam and where to find her new book visit GoodReads.