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A Day Trip from Cambridge – to Norwich and The Maddermarket Theatre

I went to see John Mortimer’s adaptation of A Christmas Carol at The Maddermarket Theatre over the Christmas break. It was the first time I’d been to the venue and I loved it – in spite of the dark, atmospheric wooden pillar that blocked my view of Scrooge in his bedroom, above the main stage. … Continue reading A Day Trip from Cambridge – to Norwich and The Maddermarket Theatre

Write Stuff – Turning the Pages

After a day of data-entry and tomato scrubbing (don’t ask) I was keen to relax and catch up with the on-line writing group I belong to. One of the lovely members had posted a link to an article by novelist, Chuck Wendig, outlining 25 reasons a potential reader might give up on your book. Sounded … Continue reading Write Stuff – Turning the Pages

The Liebster Blog award

Anita Chapman, fellow member of the RNA’s New Writers’ Scheme, has very kindly selected my blog for The Liebster Blog award. Thanks, Anita! That’s really kind. As you know, I thoroughly enjoy your blog too. The topics are always thought provoking, and encourage a broad discussion which I really enjoy. In accepting the Liebster Blog … Continue reading The Liebster Blog award

Write Stuff – What’s the Big Idea?

Why is it bad to ask authors where they get their ideas from? I hasten to add that I’ve never committed this sin in person (and it does seem to be a sin in the eyes of many writers). Neil Gaiman describes having to answer the question as one of the pitfalls of the job. … Continue reading Write Stuff – What’s the Big Idea?

Light Stuff – Word Quiz

Here's another one:VerglasIs it:a) glassware made with chromium to achieve a deep, green colourb) a thin coating of ice on an exposed surfacec) a decorative stone tabletd) the individual pane in a stained-glass window that includes the artist's initialsClick here for the answer: http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/verglas

Light Stuff – Word Quiz

In fond memory of Call My Bluff, beloved TV programme of long ago, here’s the latest word to baffle my family over tea and cake:DeltiologistIs it:a) someone who studies the effects of flowing water on river bedsb) someone who works with specialist laboratory clean-room equipmentc) someone who collects postcards as a hobbyd) someone who studies … Continue reading Light Stuff – Word Quiz

Write Stuff – Help and Resources for Writers – Approaching Agents

Following a recent discussion with friends on where to find advice about approaching literary agents, I’ve realised just how many excellent resources there are.   Here’s a round-up of some places to go for inside information:     Help from agents themselves   Carole Blake’s book From Pitch to Publication provides a comprehensive and very … Continue reading Write Stuff – Help and Resources for Writers – Approaching Agents

Write Stuff – Help and Resources for Writers – Author Events

Sarah Duncan has been giving advice on delivering author events on her blog in the last few days, and I’ve found the posts very interesting having worked in literature promotion. It also made me think back to some of the events I’ve attended. One runaway success, in terms of sales, relied very much on getting … Continue reading Write Stuff – Help and Resources for Writers – Author Events

Write Stuff – Help and Resources for Writers 5 – WriteWords

It’s well worth browsing the WriteWords website to get an idea of what’s on offer. Signing up costs £35 a year and gives you access to its full range of benefits. The site’s services include forums, online writing groups, the chance to showcase your work and useful directories featuring agents and publishers. The directory entries … Continue reading Write Stuff – Help and Resources for Writers 5 – WriteWords