Writing
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Why is Writing is Akin to Gardening?
Writing and gardening are my two main activities and I would argue that they they need a similar mindset. Being Creative Of course! When I am writing it is very much a visual experience, where pictures or a film reel transposes into words. A creative mind is one with imagination, having an idea of what…
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Interesting to look back! ~ Planning and Writing a Novel way back around 2010
In order to carry out the research for the third book in my Riduna Series, I needed to search out my old research notes carried out over 15 years ago. Research for my second novel, set in WW1 mainly in the Southampton area and The Channel Islands, was substantial, and continued way past the end…
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New Year, New Resolutions to Make or Break!
Well, it is near the end of January. Here’s a review of where I am at with my writing projects: Firstly, I have a completed manuscript which is currently under review by my first editors. Chapters have also been sent to a museum in London for comment and criticism. AIM for 2026 ~ publish this…
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16 Years of Blog Posts ~ What Next?
I began this blog on 9th December 2009, the year my first book RIDUNA was published by Pegasus Elliot McKenzie, 16 years ago. There are many good reasons for authors to write blog post regularly. Here are mine: What have I enjoyed over the years? What I have not enjoyed? Although I can’t say categorically…
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Music that has shaped my life ~ creativity working hand in hand (4)
Continuing with songs which influence my writing, but also those which tell the story of my life, oh, there are songs too numerous to mention really, including Stairway to Heaven ~ Led Zeppelin, Bridge over Troubled Water ~ Simon and Garfunkel, both iconic tracks that everyone knows, but Thank you ~ by Dido (my namesake…
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My Place to Write ~ A Place to Call Home
My place to write has much improved since my husband has finally put up some pictures for me. Since it was the first room we decorated in the house back in 2015, he has been reluctant to make holes in the pristine walls! I am now surrounded by family photographs above my desk and items…
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How to Create an Imaginary Setting for a Novel
Draw a map Draw out a basic map with streets, footpaths, houses, shops and any other key places. Make it large enough to add to. Link it to other towns, real or imaginary, with arrows at the edge of the page. (eg Bedford 5 miles) Add in railway stations and bus stations, if they feature…
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Why is Writing is Akin to Gardening?
Writing and gardening are my two main activities and I would argue that they they need a similar mindset. Being Creative Of course! When I am writing it is very much a visual experience, where pictures or a film reel transposes into words. A creative mind is one with imagination, having an idea of what…