I Did Do It! Confessions of a Crime Writer.

2012-01-16T19:55:00.000+13:00

While in Portugal recently I delved into all the book stores I could find to seek out any local crime writers. Interestingly, the book store people all mentioned a writer, Robert Wilson and his novel 'A Small Death in Lisbon' which is awaitng me on my Kindle. Wilson is a British crime writer who lives in Portugal and this novel won the Crime Writers' Association 1999 Gold Dagger Award for Best Crime Novel. It's genre is categorised as: mystery - modern detective/historical WWII. I will let you know my opinion as soon as I have read it.
Many of the top bestsellers here (Chrisholm and Paterson and Piccoult for example have all been transalted into Portugese and there seems to be a healthy reading culture judging by the quantity and quality of chain and independent book stores.

I have not read any works by the Portugese Nobel Prize for Literature (1988) winner, Jose Saramago so I bought one of his books, 'Death With Interruptions' to add to my long list of books yet to read.

While in London I headed off to Charring Cross Road to spend time in the book shops - one in particular, Murder One, only to find it had gone/moved out as had many of the smaller specialist book shops.

And so, I accept that I have contributed to the decline by taking up with the Kindle but what a great invention: so easy to cart so many books around without having to pay excess baggage fees!

2011-12-11T19:47:00.000+13:00

It isn't even the New Year, yet I have already committed myself to a new writing regime starting late January. I have signed up and paid (always a sign of great intentions) for one of Jill Marshall's 8 week on-line courses that includes an assessment of some of my novel. I guess this means I have to get on and finish the current edit! Work has eased for several weeks, therefore less pressure and that will give me more headspace.

2011-12-04T10:32:00.046+13:00

It pays to belong to a writing group; at least,for me, it works. Not only the discipline of turning up with critiques done on time, but also the motivation of hearing of other's progress, writers struggling to accommodate work, family, friends, in order to have writing time.
Two in the group have recently completed the novel they were working on when the group startd up at The Creative Hub last year. Shauna Bickley's second novel 'Lives Interrupted' is now available on Amazon and you can read my review of it.
Tui Allen's 'Ripple' is also available on Amazon and is receiving quite a bit of attention from around the world. I am inspired to persevere with my writing.

2011-11-24T21:57:00.004+13:00

Back again after several weeks away.
I have attended two writing related events in the last two weeks: one at the Auckland Public Library sponsored by the Book Council and one, an evening with my 'Rogues' writing group. Both have inspired me to persevere with my writing.
The first event at the Library was a panel (Gareth Morgan, Tessa Duder, Ian Wedde, Geoff Walker and Juliet Bergh) discussion about how they have juggled the writing alongside working, family and other commitments. It seemed to boil down to - if you have the desire, you'll find/make the time.
Three writers in my writing group epitomise that ability to juggle: Shauna Bickley' e-book, 'Lives Interrupted' is available on Amazon as is Tui Allen's e-book 'Ripple'and Ted Gibbons has finished his manuscript; all three novels were developed during our writing course last year.
They have busy lives and families and jobs and other interests -and they managed to fulfill their desire to write.
What excuse have I for my still unfinished manuscript?
My commitment(I hesitate to call them resolutions): to count all my writing as worthwhile practice and to continue with the novel and short stories I have started. That's part of the problem; starting is easy, it's the keeping at it that is hard.

2011-09-10T17:11:00.001+12:00

Nearly a month since my last post! That's what overseas travel does - interrupts the flow. I'm back for a while, so, back to writing and reading about writing
I've been reading an article on why writers should use social media to publicise their work. The premise was that there are three things conspiring against new writers getting a toe-hold: the diminishing chances of their manuscript making it to a publisher's desk (and there were several reasons within that overall comment),the increasing desire of publisher's to play it safe with who they know and the last factor the 'genre of the moment' - hence the glut now of vampire stories. Some excellent, of course.
So - one way to get noticed is to promote your work yourself. A writer friend told me exactly that years ago but I let that chance go by. Another friend is doing just that, making connections via Facebook and linking into themes in her novel to reach her target audience.
Makes sense, but why do I, and no doubt many writers, find it hard - to -impossible to do it?

2011-08-23T20:30:00.001+12:00

Boy, doesn't time pass quickly? I see my last post was in June! I'd like to say I have been busy writing, but I seem to have been doing more reading than writing. And travelling. On my recent trip to Canada, I came across these Ontario crime writers. Robert Rotenberg who has recently had 'The Guilty Plea' his second book, a legal thriller published and Giles Hunt, a former screenwriter with credits on 'Law and Order' and 'Street Legal' with his novel 'Crime Machine", the fifth in a series. Rotenberg's novel is set in Toronto while Blunt's is set further north in cottage country.
I am looking forward to reading both. Given the write-ups they have recently received I expect both authors will soon be added to my favourite list.

2011-06-26T10:39:00.001+12:00

I am really enjoying reading 'Hunting Blind' by the New Zealand author Paddy Richardson that came out last year. Quite a page turner. Time has been taken to read it, which has slowed down my Amazon searches for books to download to my new toy - a Kindle. This is a good thing as I have spend far too much time browsing and not enough time writing..but I am getting back to it now. Although -I've just read on Crimewatch that Ben Sanders (he of'Fallen') has his second book out soon. I can't fit in all in - keeping up with new works by good New Zealander writers, and writing, and all the others things, like work, and the grandson).
I'll continue to do my bit and buy real books by New Zealand authors though and I am off to buy Sarah Quigley's new book - fortunately for me, I have a great local bookstore 'Dear Reader' around the corner. How convenient!
Update: Never trust me in a bookshop. Not only did I buy the Quigley book, but I also bought the Owen Marshall novel on the Larnachs.

2011-06-12T16:55:00.000+12:00

My new Kindle is fast filling up (only 3,458 books to go!), and thanks to Craig Sisterson's reviews in today's Sunday Books section of the Herald on Sunday, I have just downloaded one of his recommendations - Greg Hurwitz's 'You're Next". His other recommendation isn't available in Kindle form yet. I am busy making sure I have enough to read for my next overseas venture.
I also downloaded Stephen Kings' 'On Writing' - which I read a few years ago and thought it was worth a reread, only to read in the Herald today that Sarah Quigley (a NZ author I enjoy) threw her copy of the same book away!
One article I do recommend is 'Creating: Old Story, New Story', in Randy Ingermanson's latest e-zine, Advanced Fiction Writing. What was going on in your character's life when your story started? What was interrupted? And does that old story impact and affect the new story? Great article and it got me thinking about my main character Lonnie and what she was doing and planning before the story I am writing, started.

2011-05-29T17:24:00.000+12:00

I have finally, after great indecision and google research, bought a Kindle. As I have some trips coming up, I thought now was the time. There was a moment, just before I pressed the 'send' button on the order, that I felt I was adding another nail in the 'real book' coffin.
BUT - not so. E-readers are just another tool that will encourage people to read.

2011-05-09T21:30:00.000+12:00

Mother's Day yesterday and I got my box of scorched almonds so I was happy. I also snuck in an extra hour or so of reading in the middle of the day - an unexpected but welcomed luxury. I got to thinking about the depiction of mother's in my writing - I'm not sure what this signifies, but they don't feature very much at all; at best, a shadowy one-dimensional background figure and at worst, I've killed them off.

2011-04-24T10:05:00.000+12:00

When I visited Iceland several years ago, I picked up a novel by Arnaldur Indridason and have now read all his that have been translated into English. Coincidentally I came across an item about Bernard Scudder - Indridason's translator and found that Scudder had also translated for another Icelandic crime writer, Yrsa Sigurdardottir, who wrote - (and I am currently reading),'My Soul to Take'. I was able to purchase three of her books via Book Depository -and not only did they arrive within 10 days of online order, they were cheaper than through other online order services. I have a fellow writer, Shauna Bickley to thank for putting me onto Book Depository.

There's something fascinating about the writing of these two Icelandic writers:their ability to depict ordinary people caught up in extraorindary events that surround murder, and the manner in which both incorporate the Icelandic landscape into the story to create suspense.

As I continue to work on my current novel - up to the draft, I am looking closely at the development of suspense in a naturally occuring framework - and both Sigurdardottir and Indridason can teach me a great deal.

I recommend both these authors to fellow readers of crime.

2011-04-14T19:58:00.000+12:00

I've been doing a lot of reading of articles and on online forums lately (not so much writing unfortunately) about the changes in young people's reading habits. There are many theories, some logical, some not so, like; young people are reading less because they are unable to concentrate for longer than 30 second bites:they read less because the quality of reading material available is lower/ too American/too hard to come by with fewer quality bookstores out there; with schools pushing greater computer use from a young age, less time is spent learning how to read - etc
I wonder, if in fact, the increasing use of computers often means teenagers are reading more - maybe what they are reading is different,not better or worse.
Reading habits, how we buy books, use of libraries etc, it is all changing - as is expected in this changing world but we musn't think that 'different' is 'worse'.

I had the opportunity last week to talk about being a writer to a Year 9 class and to read one of my high interest, low reading level chapter books, 'A Few Minutes' to them. That went down well - so being read to still seems popular.

2011-03-20T21:33:00.000+13:00

I came across Barbara Kingsolver's web page, www.kingsolver.com during one of my trawls of the web pages of writer's I admire. I usually go stalking this way when I get stuck in my own writing, hoping some of their creativity transfers to my writing. Something worked, because while reading her comments about writing and writers, I suddenly figured out how to move the action along.
Check her out.

2011-03-13T19:53:00.000+13:00

I am still working on my novel, admittedly erratically at the moment as so much else is happening at work and around me, not the least being time spent with grandson Remy (he's so cute) and I've been doing quite a lot of walking so I could enter Round the Bays and make it to the end - which I did today. I feel quite pround of myself for the perseverance and determination needed to make that happen.

Now, I need to translate that energy back into my writing.

I've been doing quite a bit of reading around plot structure and development and trying to apply the good advice to the novel. The main character, Lonnie,is becoming much stronger as events unfold but she is fifteen and I do have to think through what a fifteen year old could do/would do. Not having been fifteen for many years, I have been observing teenagers(there are advantages working in a school)to see just how much some of them do step out of their comfort zone when circumstances force them to.

Meanwhile, I keep reading about writing and writers. I especailly find the Gotham Writers and Writers Digest sites useful and very motivating.

2011-03-04T21:07:00.001+13:00

Firstly,my thoughts have been very much with Christchurch and its people this last 10 days. The constant television coverage leaves me in no doubt of the devestation, the interviews give me an insight into human courage and determination and the need for hope. My prayers are with you.

One of my many resolutions was to read more widely this year, beyond the crime genre, which I do, on occasion but not as often as I think I should. I read a review of David Levithan's (he of 'Will Grayson, Will Grayson' fame) new book, 'The Lover's Dictionary', and it sounded interesting.
It is. A love story told through dictionary entries; so few words that say so much and a fabulous example of 'show, don't tell'.
For example
p22: autonomy,n
"I want my books to have their own shelves," you said, and that's how I knew it would be okay to live together.
and
p74: dispel,v
"It was the way you said,"I have something to tell you." I could feel the magic drain from the room.

2011-02-12T10:34:00.000+13:00

One of the real positives that has come out of last year's master's writing class (and there were many) is that the group gelled and we intend to keep meeting monthly for some time yet. Last week's meeting was just the push I needed to keep on track.
A reworked chapter of my book was critiqued and overall, positive feedback with some insightful comments on improvements was given. It is amazing the difference a word makes - would the teenager say someone 'thrust' or 'shoved' a microphone in their face? That depth of discussion of our work is extremely helpful. I always feel invigorated and encouraged after each meeting.
This wekeend - reading over each members' comments on my chapter and re thinking the ending; keeping true to the character and voice is my thing at the moment.

2011-01-12T15:10:00.000+13:00

So far, I have kept to my goal of writing each day, although I seem to write about 1500 words and then edit them down to about 500 that I am really happy with. This way I will have written this novel several times over!
I've been re reading the Randy Ingermanson article on 'Writing the Perfect Scene' - such good advice and if you don't already subscribe to his e-zine 'Advanced Fiction Writing.com - now is a good time to do so. Go to
http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com

2011-01-01T16:21:00.002+13:00

May Oghma, God of Communication and writing, bestow light and wisdom and great plot lines upon all writers in 2011.
Of course, I have made my resolutions: write more, read more, immerse myself in writer communities more, (just in case the Gods are looking elsewhere). These came ahead of eat less, exercise more. I expect I'll have more chance of achieving the first three.
I have set myself a goal of end of January to complete the fourth draft of the current work-in-progress. Being on holiday helps and I can get 2-3 hours writing done each day, minimum. Progress, so far, is on track.
I am still searching for the elusive workable writing routine when I am working full time. If anyone has some useful advice, please let me know.

2010-12-29T11:06:00.004+13:00

The birth of my first grandchild (a boy, 20 Dec) and then Christmas got in the way of writing and keeping posts up to date, but back on track, inspite of a full house. I've even managed to write each day and I am very pleased with the start of the fourth - yes, fourth draft of the novel-in-progress. My aim is to have it ready by the end of January. It's good to have a goal, I say! It will be more interesting to see if I get to it.
The writing course I did with The Creative Hub this year has been invaluable. I think my writing is tighter, edgier - which is what I was after.
Hope others think so, too!

2010-12-12T14:34:00.002+13:00

For all would be writers- watch this and learn! If it was as simple as suggested - we'd all have hundreds of novels published!
Thanks to writer friend, Shauna Bickley, author of the published novel 'Driftwood', for alerting me to this funny video.
http://rejecter.blogspot.com/2010/11/so-you-want-to-write-novel_28.html

And so, back to my plan to have a writing timetable this summer so that I get the third draft of my novel finished! I'll let you know how it goes.

2010-11-28T20:15:00.000+13:00

Sunshine, good food, good (writer) company - what a great way to spend a few hours on a peaceful Sunday, topped off with listening to the reading of a new children's story. Reading aloud - probably the best advice for a writer - listen to your work being read: you hear the rhythm - and you will know whether is it 'right' or not. As one writer said -how do we get family or friends to listen to a whole novel being read!

2010-11-18T22:12:00.000+13:00

The opportunity to read from my novel-in-progress on radio was a highlight of the advanced writing course I've been doing this year through The Creative Hub.
The whole group had a go and Jam Radio in Devonport gave us the chance to air an example of our work.
Check us out: http://www.jamradio.co.nz/index.php?tag=108

2010-11-04T20:35:00.000+13:00

I was very pleased that Crimewatch took up the review I wrote of Shauna Bickley's recently published novel. Check out the Crimewatch site on the sidebar to read the review.

2010-11-02T21:15:00.000+13:00

I've been rehearsing reading Chapter One of my novel for the radio experience tomorrow night. The more I read it, the more I have 'heard' all the unnecessary words and I have culled quite a number. Also, I've picked up a few awkward sentence constructions that are quite difficult to read out loud. You try reading 'business's success' without slurring. I've changed that.
This is possibly the best exercise - reading aloud to get the rhythm and sound just right.
I can read it without stumbling or losing track - with no one watching or listening. Can I get it right, on the night?

2010-10-31T12:21:00.000+13:00

I have been practising my enunciation as The Creative Hub's writers' group I am in is to read excerpts from their current writing on radio, this coming Wednesday night. It is a wonderful opportunity, although a little daunting. Just as well we all had a lesson from Margie Tarver,(New Zealand Society of Authors)to make us aware of what radio requires re speed and clarity - especailly word endings. I've been listening to some TED speeches and National Radio readings and trying to emulate those examples. I think more practice is in order.

2010-10-28T18:49:00.000+13:00

If you are after an interesting premise, based on historical fact,strong characters, action and a good read - go for New Zealand writer, Tania Roxborogh's Bloodlines, the sequel to her award winning 'Banquo's Son.
I've just finished it.Which is just as well as there is a queue waiting to read it.

2010-10-19T08:15:00.000+13:00

A restless night, possibly related to the not-so-healthy dinner I had, BUT - I woke about 3 am and there, in my head was an answer to a problem with my storyline.
The best part about it was - a) I remembered it all when I woke and b)the idea still seemed sensible and right this morning.
Now, all I have to do is write it!
This third draft is starting to gell.

2010-10-12T21:50:00.000+13:00

Writer's Block. It is guaranteed, a sure thing, in fact, possibly the surest thing a writer can expect to happen. Some of the wonderful things happen some of the time - like inspiration, but writer's block..there it is, when you least want it.
So - here is a recipe to help you avoid the dreaded writer's block. I cam across this via another writer's blog - thank you Melinda.
http://margoberendsen.blogspot.com/

2010-10-05T19:24:00.000+13:00

I recently had a great debate with fellow writers about YA reads: how much is too much re grit and realism? We weren't talking about the use of coarse language - that is a whole other debate. We didn't come to a consensus. A few said make it as realistic as the story requires and if that means a bit of realism, then go for it. Others said that teenagers are only too aware of the realities of life and probably want a bit of escapism when they pick up a fiction book. One replied, they can read romances if that's what they want!
As I am writing a YA crime story I am very interested in this argument. My first draft, I thought avoided /glossed over (whether intentional or not, I don't know) the realistic aspects and the second draft is picking up more on the grit.
In my experience, teenagers read both YA and adult fiction so 'protecting' them from reality is I expect, a waste of time.

2010-09-24T21:45:00.000+12:00

This week's workshop was on plot, taken by Tessa Duder. Very timely for me as I've been doing a lot of thinking about this very aspect of the writing craft. I particularly like this quote from Ann Lamott's Bird by Bird. 'Plot grows out of character. If you focus on who the people in your story are, if you sit and write about two people you know and are getting to know better, day by day, something is bound to happen.'
Joan Rosier-Jones, in So You Want to Write talks about making things happen -'you escalate the suspense by showing the reader a series of incidents that build inexorably to the climatic point.' And that is the very thing - making the things that happen exciting and interesting to the reader.
Alfred Hitchcock's famous quote 'Drama is like real life with the dull bits cut out' is so true of fiction. So onward I write, trying to tighten the tension, making the things that happen realistic and interesting.

2010-09-20T10:39:00.000+12:00

I've just had a week of travel (Nova Scotia and Newfoundland), great music, good food and good company, but, not a lot of writing. Maybe the grey matter will be rested and subconsciously come up with answers to a few plot problems.
I was very impressed with the storytelling and music culture in the places we visited. The best accordian and fiddle playing I've ever heard, I think.

2010-09-04T10:00:00.001+12:00

I've just been on The Creative Hub's Facebook page and there is a short video, posted by Tui Allen, about the medieval new operating system. Worth a look.
Go to http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=126755714033760&v=wall

2010-08-29T20:53:00.003+12:00

A few weeks back I mentioned that I had been interviewed by National Radio for an item about The Creative Hub, the advanced fiction writing course I am doing.
Check out the link, and scroll down to the item on The Creative Hub at 14.24pm, to find out more about my writing, and the courses on offer.
http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/artsonsunday

2010-08-27T16:25:00.004+12:00

One of the writers in my writing group has just had a manuscript accepted for publication (Congratulations Shauna) and we were discussing the making of a book trailer to help publicise it. I came across this site that may be of interest to other writers.
Check out this link http://bit.ly/trailers123

2010-08-26T07:42:00.009+12:00

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Val McDermid, crime writer on Tuesday at The Women's Bookshop" in Ponsonby. She was entertaining -I just loved her story of how she borrowed Library books - and her reading from her latest novel 'Trick of the Dark' encouraged me to buy it. Even though I have a rather large teetering pile of unread books beside my bed, I started hers that night.
A little highlight was meeting Craig, he of Kiwicrime.blogspot fame, a great New Zealand site to keep up with crime writing in NZ and around the world.

2010-08-23T20:29:00.001+12:00

I was interviewed today by The Aucklander for an article about The Creative Hub as I am one of the 2010 participants on the Advanced Fiction Writing group.I managed to get in a few (well, more than a few) words about my own writing and how I am hopeful that YA crime stories will become all the rage - with me, of course leading the surge. It will be interesting to see if - or what, makes it to print.
I've just read Vanda Symon's comments about meeting Val McDermid, Scottish crime writer, in Dunedin and so I am looking forward to hearing Val speak tomorrow night at The Women's Bookshop in Ponsonby.

2010-08-22T13:26:00.013+12:00

Writing is largely a solitary occupation, but thank goodness I have some generous, helpful writing colleagues; the group at The Creative Hub for their insightful input each week and to Tania (author of 'Banquo's Son, winner of the LIANZ Award, mentor, friend) who,for the grand fee of a glass of wine and dinner, read through a chapter of my work-in-progress and engaged in a very useful discussion, followed by some great advice, not least of which was to read the article on 'Writing the Perfect Scene" from Randy Ingermanson's Advanced Fiction Writing e-zine. It is worth subscribing to his free monthly writing newsletter. Check it out at www.advancedfictionwriting.com

2010-08-15T14:45:00.000+12:00

Great to see New Zealand crime writers and their books the feature in the Books section of the Sunday Star Times today. About time, too. Good luck to the 3 finalists in the inaugural Ngaio Marsh Award: Vanda Symon, Neil Cross and Alix Bosco to be announced on September 10.
Now for more recognition and publicity about local writers of YA crime/thrillers!

2010-08-14T10:25:00.000+12:00

On www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/artsonsunday, this Sunday at 2.30 there is an item on short story competitions. I was advised to enter as many short story competitions as possible because you meet a deadline and it keeps you writing. I've entered a few (maybe more than a few) over the years and have had more unplaced than I have had placed, but when I have had a placing, the feeling is ... 'wow, I really am a writer'. I need affirmation of this often, even though I have been published.
And now - I'm the accidental interviewee, having been interviwed by National Radio for an item on The Creative Hub, the writing course I am doing. Definitely in the right place at the right time!
Each experience adds to my knowledge bank, I guess. It is just as well it is radio and not TV as the microphone I was holding was shaking so much it would look as though we were in the middle of an earthquake!

2010-08-07T10:18:00.000+12:00

The workshop last week with Tina Shaw on characters was good fun, interesting and productive - and clarified for me a thing or two. I have ben developing a 'baddie' character and it has been a bit of a struggle. He is either way too bad, bordering on melodramatic - all that is missing is a moustache he could twirl, or way too wishy-washy and such a push-over he couldn't possibly do anything too bad.
So, back to work on him.

2010-07-19T20:42:00.000+12:00

It's great belonging to a network of writers - so thank you to those who passed on this link so we could all have a little bit of fun.
Go to this site
http://iwl.me/
and see who you write like.

2010-07-18T21:04:00.000+12:00

I have had the good fortune this week to listen to Ngahihi O-Te-Ra-Bidois speak on motivation and leadership. While it was in a business context much of what he said applies to anything anyone wishes to put their mind to; have faith, believe in yourself, have a clear direction, stick to it.
Maybe that is why I made good progress on my work-in-progress.

2010-07-11T21:36:00.000+12:00

It is amazing what a little bit of pressure can produce. As of last Thursday, I had written almost zip. The deadline seemed some time off and there were other things to do, like snooze, lie on the couch, watch silly sitcoms. Then it occured to me that if I was to write 8,000 words worth someone else reading, I had better get a move on. So, in between going to a movie -'Me and Orson Welles', doing a small amount of housework and lunch with a friend, I managed to write 2,000 words - and I can only hope most of them will survive the next edit.

2010-07-03T21:45:00.000+12:00

Just when I was getting a tad dispirited with my current work-in-progress, as in 'where is it going?' I have just received a "Highly Commended" for a short story I entered earlier in the year in a competition - so it is back to writing with renewed enthusiasm.

2010-06-29T21:11:00.000+12:00

At the moment, I am rewriting the press conference scene in my work-in-progress and have been watching You Tube real police press conferences to help me visualise the scene. You Tube can be a very useful research tool, although I am very easily distracted.

I found the Mandy Hager novel a little hard to get through; very dense and involved so I have turned to the latest Donna Leon crime novel for a bit of light relief.

I'm travelling to Nova Scotia in a few months and wonder if there are any Nova Scotian writers anyone recommends.

2010-06-22T08:21:00.000+12:00

I have picked up Mandy Hagar's young adult novel 'The Crossing' so will be able to comment in a day or so. It came highly recommended so I am looking forward to getting into it.
Meanwhile, I am awaiting my third critique (on Wednesday) of the next few chapters of my novel-in-progress from my Creative Hub group. It is always a little nerve-wracking, but worth it!

2010-06-17T17:40:00.003+12:00

The Writers' group I belong to is very useful. Members share some interesting sites - (and also insights into our writing) but this is worth a browse for any writer. Feel encouraged.
www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/feb/20/ten-rules-for-writing-fiction-part-one

2010-06-14T20:15:00.000+12:00

I listened to the writer/poet Martin Edmonds a few weeks back and was pleased and relieved when he said he edited the beginning of his work over and over and over and it took him quite a while before he was satisfied and could move on. That made me feel less 'alone' as I am onto the third major draft of my latest YA crime novel - and I am only now, after several weeks moving beyond the first 4 chapters.I tend to edit as I go as I find I can't just write, spelling errors and all - must be the English teacher in me - I am compelled to correct!
Being in the Creative Hub Advanced Fiction Writers group is proving extremely helpful - not the least that I have to meet deadlines every few weeks.
And that's my excuse for not keeping up with this blog lately!

2010-06-03T09:45:00.000+12:00

Thanks to one of my writing group who put me onto the web site, http://www.writersdiet.ac.nz/ where you can test if your writing is 'flabby or fit.'
Here is a little bit from the website blurb.

Imagine yourself recruiting a long-distance runner to deliver an important message. What kind of person will you choose: a lean, strong athlete with well-toned muscles and powerful lungs, or a podgy, unfit couch potato who will wheeze and pant up the first few hills before collapsing in exhaustion? The answer is obvious. Yet far too many writers send their best ideas out into the world on brittle-boned sentences weighted down with rhetorical flab.

The Writer's Diet will help you energise your writing, boost your verbal fitness levels and strip unnecessary padding from your prose. First, take the Wasteline Test to diagnose your verbal fitness levels in each of five common problem areas. Next, follow the no-nonsense advice in each chapter to strengthen and tone your verbal muscles.

Writers at every level, from students to professionals, will benefit from the Writer's Diet workout. Before long, you will find yourself producing stylish, energetic prose every time you put pen to paper.

This is the work of a New Zealand writer and academic and I recommend you give the test a go with some of your own writing.

2010-05-30T11:47:00.000+12:00

Friday night saw me doing the things I really like; a movie (The Secret in their Eyes), casual dining ( Food Hall) and a browse in Border's plus a few purchases. The pile of books beside the bed is more a tower, soon to topple if I don't polish a few off. I am ploughing my way through a Wally Lamb novel at the moment -and for the first time in a very long time, I might put it aside and move on. It isn't often I give up on a book -there is always hope it will get better but I am finding Dolores in 'She's Come Undone" a bit hard to take.

2010-05-13T18:42:00.004+12:00

One writing magazine (subscription) and their weekly email newsletter (free) I find interesting, is the American Writers Digest (www.writersdigest.com). It is full of snippets about writing, interviews with writers covering many genres and writing tips. Last week I was working on a scene in my work-in-progress that was heavy on coincidence and there happened to be an article about that very skill - how to weave in believable coincidences into your plot - and (I think) it set me off on the right path (now I have to work on avoiding cliches!).

I am off to a few sessions at the Auckland Writers and Readers Week in Auckland, and reading Lia Hill's 'The Beginner's Guide to Living' and Charlotte Grimshaw's 'The Night Book' before I go to their sessions. Pity work interfered so I couldn't get to Thomas Keneally's session today.

2010-04-29T18:57:00.000+12:00

This week, I have been thinking about the skill of 'show,not tell'. I have read many 'how to' writing books, studied examples and still have trouble. When is the back story information useful, or necessary and when is it not? There is a fine balance, a balance that is hard to get.
I am reading a novel at the moment (one I may not be recommending but I'm going to read a few more pages before I decide) that deals with one incident for 59 pages! There is a lot of description and 'telling'. Maybe there is a point to it and I have to read on.

2010-04-23T17:36:00.002+12:00

I have joined a writer's group and I had the opportunity during the week to listen to Martin Edmond, Writer-in-Residence at the Michael King Centre, speak about 'voice':what do writer's mean by this, where does it come from, how to sustain it. He spoke movingly about gaining his 'voice'when he gave his father's eulogy, a fitting time to find it, I expect.

I would like to know other's opinion about writing fiction using the present tense. This is relatively common in young adult fiction as it gives immediacy to the reader. One person said that the use of present tense is something that amateur writers often use (to ill effect, I gathered) and that using this tense is not commonly used by writers around the world.
I have been experimenting with the present tense in my current manuscript, a young adult fiction - and so, somewhat chastened by the discussion (but aware I am in the group to learn and develop my writing skills) I am re writing my manuscript in the past tense.
What do other's think about this?

2010-04-18T15:47:00.000+12:00

Whenever I travel overseas I search out novels by a local crime writing author. I found the Icelandic author, Arnaldur Indridason that way (I recommend his 'The Draining Lake') and on my recent holiday to China I came across the novel 'Death of a Red Heroine' by Shanghai-born, USA living, Qiu Xiaolong. Set in 1990, as well as a 'who-done-it,it gives a very interesting perspective on the social changes China experienced during and after the cultural revolution and the effects of that period on ordinary people.
I read so many crime novels that I am ever hopeful some of the skills of those writers will, by the osmosis process, seep into me and my own writing will improve. I am (still)plodding away with my novel about the disappearance of a young girl; the story has stayed with me for years so there must be something 'there'.
And, while browsing the net today I came across a NZ blog devoted to crime writers - www.kiwicrime.blogspot.com - and some postings there about reading crime writers from around the world. Maybe I can get a fan group for Arnaldur going?

2010-03-24T21:07:00.002+13:00

I've been thinking about my characters in the novel and I have this awful feeling that I may have to kill one off before she has really got a foothold. Maybe she is meant for another story.

2010-03-21T10:36:00.000+13:00

A trip to Wellington yesterday - for the fun of it, to have breakfast on Oriental Parade,followd by seeing the Pompeii Exhibition at Te Papa just in case that is the closest I ever get to the real Pompeii, then lunch at the Mac Brewery then a smooth flight home - for some reason got me thinking about my novel-in-draft again and I have written about 3,000 more words. Maybe I should travel more, maybe that is my 'muse' - having my head in the clouds! That's a good excuse. I am feeling quietly pleased with the way the novel-in-draft is progressing. It's a pity I have to break off writing to do vacuuming and food shopping and tomorrow, go to work!

2010-03-14T14:02:00.000+13:00

I meant to stay home today and do housework, or maybe even gardening, but somehow I ended up at the book shop where the new Arnaldur Indridason, 'Hypothermia", fell off the shelf and into my hands. I like the way he manages to keep a gripping pace and builds suspense without resorting to over-the-top gruesomeness; his stories, set in Iceland (and I've been lucky enough to have been there) are grim and cold,reflecting the landscape.
Before I settle down to get my latest short story ready to enter a local competition, I've been checking out local writer's blogs and I am constantly in awe at how much writing they get done, in between all the other things they do. I must learn how.

2010-03-10T20:57:00.000+13:00

A wee thrill yesterday was having a visit from a past student, a keen, talented writer who is now studying journalism. It was wonderful that she took the time.

2010-03-03T20:38:00.000+13:00

It's been a few weeks since I've made time to post anything - busy with work and family and friends and writing. YES! Writing. I've got a renewed spurt of creativity and have worked on a short story that I think is ready to be entered into a short story contest. It is more for an adult audience so that is a departure for me - and a development that I think I will pursue. I haven't heard a word from Penguin about my manuscript so I think I can say that manuscript has not risen to the top of their slush pile. I have such a belief in the story and the characters that I will take another look at it, in maybe a month or so when I am over the disappointment of yet another rejection.
I am reading the new Paul Cleave novel 'Blood Men' - thoroughly enjoying it but I wonder what people in Christchurch think of it?

2010-01-26T17:00:00.000+13:00

I am definitely a summer person - I just love the sun, the fact that everyone still has that holiday feeling and the long days that mean I can squeeze more into my day; I seem to have more time to go to movies, more time to read, more time to exercise and more time to think about what I am writing!
I've set my 2010 goals - 'less thinking, more doing' is basically it and so far I have almost kept to the 500 words a day aim. I never said those words would be any good and I often delete most of them, but I am working on the premise that some of those words will pay off by leading me in the 'right' direction, or developing into a workable idea and even, maybe, helping me perfect some of those aspects that I need to work on - like 'showing' not telling.

2010-01-06T21:16:00.000+13:00

Holidays are a wonderful invention and there should be more of them. Time to relax and enjoy food and drink and good company and think and weave my story and read parts, again, of 'Story' by Robert McKee (highly recommended)and then rethink aspects of the novel I'm working on and make New Year Resolutions (think less, write more, along with the usual eat less, exercise more but I've been making that promise for many years).

2009-12-17T21:31:00.000+13:00

I work with a guy who is a great story teller; he can develop a simple incident and turn it into an event. Such skill. I've been trying to analyse why he is so entertaining -and I realise it has a lot to do with timing and voice modulation; Now, how do I capture that and put it into words?

2009-12-13T17:46:00.000+13:00

It's intereting how, out of all the experiences and all the interactions with people I have in any one week, how one tiny aspect of one of those moments will develop in my imagination and start a thought process. This morning I had such a moment. I was at a very busy pre-Christmas market and suddenly I was thinking how someone could have a job and raise a child, but still remain apart,largely unseen - and what type of event would cause that to change. And it started to fit with a storyline I am working on and a character I am developing. So - a successful morning - Christmas gift shopping AND an emerging storyline.

2009-11-29T15:13:00.000+13:00

So much for my good intentions to keep up with my blog. It is going the way of the housework; I mean to do it, but....
However, I am recovering from the last writing rejection and 'getting back on the bike'and drafting another story and rethinking Chapter 4 of my never-ending rewrites of my novel. I am trying not to make work, planned (not actual)Christmas shopping, social gatherings and general sloth be my excuses for neglecting the writing.
And I re read my 2009 writing goals.....and maybe I'll repeat them for 2010!

2009-11-18T20:42:00.000+13:00

I was heard to say, today 'You can teach an old dog new tricks' (I was figuring out how to upload a video clip onto a web site) - and it brought home to me that learning never stops. So, while I am 'stuck'on my present writing, I am rereading dog-earred pages of Ann Lamott's 'Bird by Bird' and my eye went to, on p 178 - ' I no longer think of it as [writer's] block. I think that is looking at the problem from the wrong angle...if you accept the reality that ... you are not in a productive creative period - you free yourself to begin filling up again.'
And when I started to write about the steps to upload a video, (following Lamott's advise 'to get one page of anything written'), into my head popped an idea worth developing.

2009-11-07T19:50:00.000+13:00

'Those who can't.... teach'. Although I am not having a great deal of success lately, one of my creative writing students was awarded first prize in the Western Districts Short Story competition, secondary schools division. Another student's work was Very Highly Commended. It is great to see these opportunities available - and being taken up, by young writers. Creative writing is alive and well!

2009-10-30T22:01:00.000+13:00

Another rejection! A day of ruminating on this writing business and my role in it. I shall go read a good book.I happen to be finishing off TK Roxborogh's 'Banquo's Son'. A gripping read.
That will inspire me to persevere.

2009-10-18T20:42:00.000+13:00

Why is it that one particular thing that happens, in any given day of so much happening, will stay in my mind and start to develop as a possible storyline? How do I recognise the potential of that event? I'm not sure, but I'm glad it does happen. I was at a bit of a do last week and I saw a woman I did not know looking tired. She was shouldering a very large,heavy bag and now, a week later, that incident has startd to form into a short story. So, instead of gardening, I spent a large part of the day drafting it. Very productive.

What is occupying me right now

2009-10-11T14:35:00.007+13:00

I've got back to reworking my latest manuscript, a YA crime novel. The story has its origins in the disappearance of a student I taught over 19 years ago. I've often wondered what happened to her. From that event, I've said 'what if?' What if she had planned her disappearance? What if she suddenly turns up? What if she has a daughter who knew nothing of her mother's past?
Here is a taster from the first chapter. What do you think?

• ONE

The motel lobby is wall-to-wall mirrors. Bad design idea. Bet the owners reckoned it was cosy and inviting but, hell, no way. I’d have to stare at the ceiling to avoid seeing my own reflection and it wouldn’t surprise me to see mirrors up there. Maybe it used to be a brothel and they just hadn’t got round to renovating, or maybe, it was a brothel and wait until I tell Greta that Mum had made a huge, huge mistake in booking us into it.

While the cop and the owners are busy discussing me as if I’m not here, I take a ‘I’m not checking myself in the mirror look' and I like the effect. Uncombed, coffee-brown shoulder length hair and not the ink-black I told Mum I was going to dye it as soon as she let me off the leash back in Sydney. The tattooed and pierced baby face emblazoned t-shirt given to me by my Very Best Friend Greta, found in our favourite op-shop in Bondi, looks just right over my most worn blue jeans. Pity about the dark smudges ringing my eyes; they make me look sick.

I stare at the desk sign announcing that Owner Operators, Dennis and Katherine Plummer are pleased to be of service and I wonder if they could be done for false advertising. There is no way those two are doing me any service.

“I’m staying here and waiting.” I drag my eyes away from admiring me in the mirror and say, to no one in particular as they are still too busy talking about me.
Mr Plummer, obviously not pleased and suddenly staring, protests. “Well, you can’t.”

“Try and see it from our point of view, dear,” his wife says, smiling at me for the first time ever.

Fake smile, fake sympathy, fake, fake, like the whole lobby, trying to make it look bigger than it is. Don’t they realise how fat the mirrors made everyone look?

“My Mum’s paid for two nights. I’m staying.”

The adults look at each other, their heads turning back and forth like clown heads at the Easter Show. Mr Plummer’s ‘help-me-out' look directed at the police officer makes him look moronic and I wonder if I should repeat what I said, really slowly, not too sure which part of ‘I’m staying’, he didn’t understand.

Just to prove they were useless, they’d rung the police as if I had done something wrong. I pretty much feel as if I should smash their mirrors or vandalise their desk sign to give them something real to be upset about. I haven’t even sworn yet, although the words are lining up in my head, ready to be given the ‘Go’ signal. And why the police even bother to take any notice of their hissy fit, I have no idea. Don’t New Zealand police have any real criminals to chase?

The officer, Constable something starting with M, stands blocking the entrance, feet slightly apart, her body loose, elbows jutting out from her sides,a stance suggesting she is ready for anything if I try to make a run for it.

‘What’s your name, Miss? How old are you?" she asks.
Did I look as if I was born yesterday. I ignore the first question. “Old enough to be left on my own for a few hours.”

She stares at me, waiting, but I can outstare her. I won every time Greta and I played that game with our teachers.

“The surname’s ‘Harrison’. See.” Mrs Plummer waves a piece of paper at the officer. “And that’s just it,” she turns to me. ‘It's been more that a few hours, hasn’t it? It’s been nearly all day.” Now back to the officer. “We’re a motel. We can’t be responsible for a teenager. We’re nearly full and we’re terribly busy and it isn’t right that her mother has abandoned the girl.”

“She hasn’t abandoned me, “I contradict, instantly hating that word. “She’s..” I’m searching for a word, the opposite of ‘abandoned’ but my brain has locked down into sleep mode. “You didn’t have to call the cops. She’ll be back soon.” I cringe at my cry baby tone. I’ll be stamping my feet and rolling on the floor throwing a tantrum next.

“Had an argument, have you?” the officer asks.

“No.”

Husband and wife and the officer all purse their lips and deliberately don’t look at each other.

“Don’t believe me. See if I care.”

Mr Plummer shuffles behind the counter, head down, hands busy picking up and putting down bits of paper as if his business’s success depends on them being in the right order. We all watch, mesmerised and then he directs his words to the policewoman. “Look, we’ve got a business to run. We’re not child minders. She can’t stay here and that’s that.”

Hello. I’m here. I’m visible. Talk to me.

“I’m sorry, dear, but he’s right.” At least his wife recognises I am here but when she leans forward, arms out to hug me, that is a bit too much. I step back, out of reach.

“This is getting us nowhere. By rights, I should be off duty. I’ll take you to the station and we’ll see what we can find out. Come on, go get your things.” The officer speaks in that school teacher ‘do as you’re told’ voice, expecting no argument.
“No, you can’t make me. She’ll be back soon. We’ve paid.” I imitate her posture, legs apart, arms by my side, hoping I look tougher than I feel.

They must train police officers in creepy facial expressions and she gives me the tilted head, eyes widening in anger, staring down her nose at me and chin jutting out. Her words are clipped and firm. “Actually, I can make you. Let’s see. ‘Refusing to give your details. No fixed abode. Unaccompanied minor. Causing a disturbance. Refusing to assist police in their enquiries.’ I’m sure there is more. Just give me time to think of them. Now, get a move on.”

2009-10-08T16:09:00.004+13:00

When I travel, which I recently did, to Melbourne, the trip starts for me the second I am on the plane, remote control in my hand, and I scroll through all the movie options and I ended up watching 'The Hangover'. Maybe it was being in a confined space, or the rarified atmosphere - but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Not the usual genre of movie I see. The next best thing about being in Melbourne was I was there the day the new Stieg Larsson book came out. So far, so excellent.

2009-09-26T11:16:00.004+12:00

The last month has gone in a blur, what with being very busy at a full-time job and editing two very different pieces to enter into two very different short story competitions. I find if I am held to a deadline, I am more likely to give up slothing on the couch or going to bed early to read. So now, I wait for the results.

2009-08-30T12:05:00.000+12:00

In between work and friends and, I admit, housework, I've managed to finish a short story that I am entering into a competition. I find having a deadline and a purpose keeps me writing and focused, as on these dreary winter nights it is too, too easy to slouch on the couch. So, I put myself on the line again. I believe in the 'have to be in to win', but I find the rejection takes a few weeks to get over. Usually after that time, I can be dispassionate about my writing and see where improvements can be made. Anyway, here's hoping.

2009-08-23T16:52:00.004+12:00

Interestingly, the two people who critiqued the draft of the current story I'm working on, both focused on different aspects but their comments got me thinking and as a result I've spent a great deal of the weekend re writing, sticking with the original idea but changing the ending significantly. It has taken me some time to gain confidence in having my work critiqued, but if you can find the 'right' readers, the process can be very worthwhile. Now I can see, that easily 500 words were superfluous to the story and deleting them created a faster pace and strengthening of the connections. I'm learning!

2009-08-07T09:46:00.006+12:00

I'm off to Wellington for the weekend - a weekend of culture and art and Te Papa and maybe a bit of cafe culture and possibly a wee explore of Martinbgorough and time to start a new book (The Slap, by Christos Tsiolkas) and work on the third draft of the short story that is, after some very useful critiquing,taking shape. So much for a relaxing weekend!

2009-08-02T11:57:00.004+12:00

Maybe I write best under a little pressure but it has been one of those busy, busy weeks at work with evening meetings but I have toiled away late in the night on a short story that I am planning to finish /edit/rewrite/edit and rewrite in time to enter the Sunday Star Short Story competition. I've had an idea taking shape in my head for some time about neighbourly dynamics in a cul-de-sac but the story I have ended up writing is a long way from the original idea. Maybe the original idea will surface in another story, or part of a story another day. Meanwhile, I am almost ready to entrust the draft to a writer friend who I know will critique it in the kindest possible way but she will also give me some insights into where improvements can be made. So I will take a deep breath, send it to her and hope she feels the story has some merit. Otherwise it will join the piles and piles of ideas that showed such hope of growing at the start but failed to develop. Occasionally I re read these and once or twice something in them has ended up in another story.
Meanwhile my reading time has suffered and I am still reading 'Evening is the Whole Day'.

2009-07-25T14:58:00.003+12:00

The weekend at last after a long week at work after two weeks holiday. Getting back into the rhythm of work has taken up all my energy and I've only been able to think about writing but not actually doing very much (if you don't count all the email replies to queries at work). As usual my head is full of ideas, some of which, or slivers of the idea may eventually find their way to a page.

2009-07-16T17:34:00.007+12:00

A wonderful thing about going on holiday is having the time to read (and read a lot of the time). Since going to Iceland in 2004 and picking up Hallgrimur Helgason's novel '101 Reykjavivk' I decided to seek out local writers I've not come across before, from the places I visited. I tend to look for crime writers, but I'm open to nearly any genre. This way, I've been introduced to Donna Leon (Venice) and Ellis Peters(Shrewsbury)to name 2, and having just been to Singapore and Malaysia, I've been introduced to Singapore's Shamini' Flints' crime novel, 'Inspector Singh Investigates'

and Malaysia's Preeta Samarasan's 'Evening is the Whole Day'.

Both are very different reads, the first being a light who-done-it and the second a more lyrically written view of post colonial Malaysia and the lives and plights of an Indian family.

I did spent some time thinking (still) about my own writing and I actually did some -and I have just finished a short short story that I have entered into a competition. Here's hoping.

2009-06-28T13:26:00.003+12:00

It's a very wet Sunday so it has been great for writing. I've been working on a short story that is slowly coming together. I am at that stage where it needs to simmer for a week and then I'll revisit it. I find that works well for me, letting it sink into my subconscious and then looking at it afresh.

I've been reading Tessa Duder's 'Is She Still Alive?' - a collection of short stories about older women in a variety of situations. Very readable with very real characters and emotions.

2009-06-21T11:26:00.008+12:00

I am still reading Emily Perkins' 'Novel about My Wife', and can't decide whether I like it -but I'm going to finish it so that must say something.
One of my daughters is a huge, huge fan of Pride and Prejudice - the book, the films) and I came across a new novel called 'Pride and Prejudice and Zombies' but she drew the line at that. It made me wonder how - and why, anyone would come up with such an idea. How many people are interested? Probably more than I realise.
And that took me to all the ideas for stories I have swirling around in my head at the moment, (none of which are easily transferring to the page), but to me, they all have potential - at least for now.
I had the opportunity last week to read one of my stories to a Year 10 class - and it was a joy. The students were interested - always a good start, listened while I read and even asked some very sensible questions. It certainly went a long way to encourage me to keep going with my writing. There is nothing quite like an appreciative audience. Books and reading are not dead!

2009-06-14T14:40:00.005+12:00

Sometimes I just need a light, well-written entertaining novel that doesn't require too much brain power or concentration - and maybe that's is why evey now and again I pick up an Alexander McCall-Smith. I've just finished his 'Tea-Time for the Traditionally Built' and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Now I am ready for a novel with a bit more kick, so I've started Emily Perkin's 'Novel About My Wife'.
Maybe it is the winter blues , but I have a dark thread of an idea weaving its way in my brain and it is slowly taking shape into a short story - a macabre one. I need sunshine, I think.

2009-06-07T16:28:00.006+12:00

It's been a few weeks since I last wrote. Life has a way of getting in the way of important things - like writing. I've had visitors for weeks and I wouldn't change a thing but now I need to recharge the writing batteries and so I've been doing more thinking than writing.

I've even slowed down on the reading and it took me more than the usual week to read 'Mr Toppitt'. The book's premise caught my attention and for most of the book, my attention was held but towards the end it waned. Maybe it was trying to be too clever, or maybe I am not clever enough to keep up.

Now I'm onto another Alexander McCall-Smith, 'Tea-time for the Traditionally Built'. I like his simple, (not simplistic style) and the everyday occurances that he is so able to weave into his stories.

I'm still working on my crime novel. At the moment I'm playing with first or third person for the main character. I'm usually more comfortable writing in the third person, but this character and his story want me to tell it through his eyes.
And then there are the 2-3 short stories that are playing out in my head as well!

And I'd like to mention the success of Tania Roxborogh, a long-standing friend and writing mentor of mine and her success with her new novel 'Banquo's Son'. It has been picked up by the publishing firm, Writer's House, in USA. She deserves every success.

2009-05-02T17:15:00.008+12:00

I haven't been writing as much as I would like because in any spare time I've been all engrossed in the first daughter's wedding arrangements and big day on Sunday. It's great to have so many family here for the occasion too.
I have been reading late at night, though and I am nearly finished 'Salmon Fishing in the Yemen". Well worth the read.

2009-04-22T20:53:00.004+12:00

I've finished 'The Independence of Miss Mary Bennet' and towards the end it was hard going. Once I vowed never to waste time reading a book I didn't really enjoy but when it comes right to it, I find I keep going, in the hope it will get better. Maybe it is the optimist in me! This book did not work for me as I did not find it 'true' to the Jane Austen style. So now it's onto something light - a page turne perhaps. I have the latest Jeffrey Archer - maybe I'll give that a go, although it is several years since I last read anything of his.

I have set myself a goal of completing a short story for adults - and so I am spending considerable time thinking that through but as it is back to work for Term 2of school next week, maybe it will take longer than I expect.

2009-04-14T15:39:00.004+12:00

I am thrilled to receive this from the well-known NZ writer, Tania Roxborogh, who every so kindly has nominated me for this award in recognition of my perseverence in this writing business. How thoughtful. It is just what I need to motivate me.

As with these awards there are a few simple rules:
1. Put the logo on your blog or post.
2. Nominate up to 10 blogs which show great attitude and/or gratitude!
3. Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.
4. Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
5. Remember to link to the person from whom you received your award.

2009-04-12T13:08:00.012+12:00

Another rejection - this time a short story entered into a competition! A long time ago, a friend tried to soothe my dejection when I received yet another rejection for one of my novels that 'a rejection means you are out there, writing and that is a good thing'. Maybe, but it takes a while to overcome the feeling of not being 'good enough' at this writing business.
This weekend I will indulge in chocolate and waste a few hours on mindless games (have you tried to hit the Easter Eggs on the Flybuys site?) and then get back to writing. I have an idea gestating away for a short short story that I might develop.
Meanwhile, I have finished 'The Book Thief' and have started Colleen McCullough's 'The Independence of Miss Mary Bennet'. An interesting premise - the Bennet family 20 years on, centred around the least visible girl, Mary. I shall persevere and let you know what I think.

2009-04-05T20:17:00.003+12:00

I've nearly finished 'The Book Thief'. It has taken a little longer than it normally takes to read a book, probably because a few other things, like work and family have taken up time as well. I feel I need to read something light and frivolous after the last three. I've also been drafting two short stories, the plots of which just popped into my head but are taking much more thought and work to mould into anything worth persevering with. At least the creative juices are flowing again and I hope to have time over Easter to work on them.

2009-03-30T15:24:00.006+13:00

I've just started 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak,a book I've been meaning to read for some time. It has sat on my bookshelf waiting patiently while other titles have snuck in ahead.

As you can see from my reading,I am enjoying the crime plot with the slew of out-of-the-ordinary characters all in a believable setting. This is what I am aiming for in my own writing. Not that I think I will ever be able to emulate writers such as Larsson or Zusak but I persevere.
I really enjoyed the two Larsson novels and wonder when the third is being published.

2009-03-22T13:33:00.007+13:00

I've started reading the second Stieg Larsson novel,'The Girl Who Played with Fire', and I am finding it almost un-put-downable'. Great read, intricate plot and credibly drawn characters.

I've also been thinking I need to plot out my next novel. I'm up to a re-write stage and as the plot becomes more complex, I have to go back through notes to remember some of the minor detail. I came across a web site (www.spacejock.com) that takes you through the YWriter free software) that helps you plot out your work and I've spent writing time working through it. It may be a useful tool once you come to grips with how to set it up. I've been reading different author approaches to planning their writing and it is interesting to read of the various ways. I guess you have to find a way that works for you. Still, more and more I am moving towards serious plotting and planning chapter by chapter. I'm not sure if that is a natural development as I write more, or if it is yet another procrastination tool to avoid doing the real thing (and I'm very adapt at those tricks).

2009-03-14T17:37:00.003+13:00

I've started putting fingers to keyboard again. I have been working away on a young adult crime novel for some time and am up to the third rewrite. The basic storyline is a good one - so I believe - but I also know the story needs to develop more. So, every few days I sit at the computer and work away. I think it will be a long, long gestation.
I have started reading Jill Marshall's 'As it is on Telly'. So far, an amusing read.

2009-03-08T12:27:00.005+13:00

At last. I've finished 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'. It's been a while since I stayed up very, very late reading and even wanted to go to bed early to get in extra reading time. I found this novel very satisfying and I'll be heading off to get the next Larsson novel.
I've now picked up Brian Falkner's 'The Tomorrow Code'. I try to read as many New Zealand young adult novels as I can and I've had this one for a few weeks in the pile by the bed. So far 60 pages in, I want to know what happens next - a sure sign of tension well developed and believable characters immersed in a probable plot.

2009-02-28T19:19:00.005+13:00

Maybe it is the sultry weather, dampening my usually creative brain from coming up with great story lines, so I took to reading some writing magazines to see what was new. I came across a web site: http://thestorystarter.com/ What a great idea. One click, and there's a starter to get you going. Check it out.
Meanwhile, I'm still reading the Larsson novel. I even found myself reading it at 1.00am.

2009-02-22T20:12:00.007+13:00

The book I'm about to start is 'The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson. My daughter recommended this novel a few months ago and it has finally reached the top of the pile of books by my bed. The NZ Herald ran a very positive review of the book on Saturday and I will let you know my opinion when I finish it. It is rather large, so it may take me a little while.
Just before Christmas I joined a writers' critique group and today I went along to my second session. I wonder why I put off joining one for so long. Taking time to talk about writing is a joy and I found the analysis of my story very rewarding - and some of the comments extremely useful. I took along a story that I think has the bones of a story worth developing but I knew it needed work - and others in the group pointed me in the right direction to start the rewrite.

2009-02-16T19:55:00.003+13:00

I'm still reading 'March'. I've been slower getting through this book than normal, because there seems to be so many other things to take up my time. For example, I watched a video at home - something I rarely do (I much prefer to go to a movie theatre to see a film). The video was 'The Wrong Man' and I found it rivetting. It took me a while to see the connection of the opening scene with the main story, but eventually I caught on.
I wrote a story once that had a prologue and eventually the plot unfolded (that was the intention), showing how events in the prologue were connected. It didn't work, possibly because I'm yet to grasp the nuances of that style. I'm still more comfortable with a chronological style of narrative. I admire those who can develop a complicated, twisting plot line. Anyway, back to the movie. Clever twists, cross-double cross- and things aren't what they seem, combined with slick dialogue, fast pace and not-bad-to-look-at-actors made for a pleasant lie-on the-couch and watch the screen entertainment. Now, it's back to 'March'.

2009-02-11T19:06:00.005+13:00

I've started reading 'March' by Geraldine Brooks. As a young girl I loved 'Little Women' and so this account of the absent father appealed. A friend recommended the book as a 'must read'. The first few pages wwere heavy going but it could have been the late night start or the heat so I will persevere.
As far as the writing is going, it is usually quite late before I get to relax in front of the computer and the best I can manange is an outline of an idea or two. In the middle of the night an idea can seem extremely exciting and full of potential, yet in the harsh light of the morning, it can seem incredibly dull and a'go nowhere' idea. I shall resort to my writing exercise book and skim through all the plot lines and good ideas I have written down over the years to see if anything has metamorphosed into a potential best seller.

2009-02-08T16:44:00.005+13:00

I am in a 'wasteland' of writing at the moment. I'm not sure if it is the heat - although I coped with much hotter when I lived in Australia, or the flurry of the first few weeks in a college at the beginning of the year, or a real 'writer's block' time, but as I wasn't getting anywhere with any of the ideas I have cramming my head at the moment, I did a bit of surfing around writing sites. Sometimes, reading about writing, reminding myself of writing techniques, reading about authors helps get me back into the writing mode.

One site I thought had something useful to pass on, was www.copyblogger.com. So, give it a look.

The book I'm reading at the moment is P D James' 'The Private Patient'. I've been a fan of the Adam Dalgliesh stories and this one doesn't disappoint. The plot is tight, the characters believable and the twists and turns credible.

2009-02-04T20:49:00.003+13:00

I am finding it hard to get the creative juices flowing again, now that I am back at work full-time. I had resolved (one of those New Year Resolutions I made -and I should know better) to write every day -and now I am hoping I can count emails and Facebook and blogs as 'writing'.
I have worked out how to 'make'time. Each morning, on my 15 minute drive to work, I don't turn on the radio or CD. Instead, I play little writing games such as describing what I see using the five senses, or developing an event that happened the day before using 'what if'.
Yesterday I saw one person driving and drinking coffee, one on the phone and one applying makeup. And that was just at one set of lights! I developed a storyline where all three people may have contributed to an accident -and worked out the excuses they gave the police officer. It's one quick way of keeping the thought processes active.
And I'm sure seeing the strange lady talking to herself in the car must amuse some.

2009-01-28T20:45:00.002+13:00

One of the main things I have to overcome when I want to write is the tendency to procrastinate. I plan to sit down at the computer and draft out the great story circulating in my head. But first, I have to vacuum and dust those very fine cobwebs from under the couch or high up the walls, put a load of washing on, write out the shopping list, even make a start on the huge pile of ironing -in fact anything but write. I lie awake in the early hours of the morning, thinking about a story, writing it, rewriting it - all in my head, and the story has such promise at that point. If the story lingers, shaping and reshaping and turning into something different from where it started, then I get to the place where I just have to write. Sometimes I think it would be easier if I trained myself to write it all down from the start. Other times I think the process is a natural one for me and I have to work through it until I get to where the story is ready to be seen in print. Even if the first draft is just one of many.
I am at the 'nearly ready' to put the story into black strokes onto the white background. , I've done the dishes and hung out a load of washing, I've made myself a cup of tea- so now I have no excuses left. It must be the 'write' time.

2009-01-25T11:30:00.001+13:00

There are so many websites offering advice for writers -where to start? Having a site recommended by a writer is certainly helpful. Sites I find useful are: dictionary and thesaurus sites, baby name sites (just google) and I've put the link to a grammar help site I found recently. Check them out.

2009-01-24T20:00:00.000+13:00

When I travel anywhere, (which isn't as often as I would like), I try to find a local crime writer. This is how I came across the Icelandic crime writer, Arnaldur Indridason and his novel 'The Draining of the Lake', a few years ago. This novel was a tightly woven, realistic story and so I have kept an eye out for his latest, 'Arctic Chill', which just happened to be available at Borders. A writer I recommend.

I was introduced to the Australian writer, Emma Darcy and her 'Who Killed Angelique, Who Killed Bianca, Who Killed..." series by a second hand book store operator in Coolangatta, a few weeks ago. I'm glad I took the time and had a chat about books with him because the three of the series I've read so far are just the thing for a lazy afternoon in the sun.

2009-01-23T21:20:00.000+13:00

I tend to write fiction for young adult readers, so I read as much young adult fiction as I can. At the moment I am reading the first of the Twilight series. This series is extremely popular with the young teenagers I know. I can see why the story appeals - independent young girl, misunderstood boy, concerned father, absent mother and the dawning of sexual awareness - but with a great taboo line - vampires.