Here is a clutch of clues from a recent paper to gently tease the grey cells:

* 1. Manager plunged into Eastern sea showing relief (8) - Embossed

* 2. Work too hard to get public a vote (7) - Overtax

* 3. English journalists gripped by such strong drink (8) - Espresso

* 4. Knight - alias covering fine author (5) - Kafka

* 5. The Queen embracing Murray, an all-round performer (8) - Handyman

* 6. Avid reader of Bellow getting over work being rewritten (8) - Bookworm

* 7. Vulnerable bid (6) - Tender

* 8. Fight aquatic creatures coming up leaving river (3-2) - Set-to



Enjoy!

1. EmBOSSed

5. Handyman (Queen = HM around Andy (Murray) + an)

Bernie

6. Avid reader of Bellow getting over work being rewritten (8)

bookworm

Avid reader = boo(kwor)m
Bellow = boom
getting over - container ind
work = kwor (being rewritten - angr ind)

7. tender (dbl.def.)

4. Kafka
knight=K
alias=AKA
fine=f

8. Fight aquatic creatures coming up leaving river (3-2)

set to - fight

otters - aquatic creatures (coming up - reversed) leaving R(iver)

All good.

2: overtax
3:espresso

Correct, naturellement!