Today Show, Get Your Book Published Competition – Terms and Conditions

Today Show recently announced their novel writing competition in association with New Island Books. The prize and the terms and conditions are listed on their website - check them out at  http://newislandnews.com/competition/ or the Today Show Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/rtetoday or click on the following link http://www.rte.ie/tv/today/tc.html to hear it straight from Editorial Director of New Island Books Eoin Purcell and Author Nuala Ní Chonchúir.

Or check out the list from the New Island Website below:

Get Your Book Published Competition – Terms and Conditions

Get Your Book Published Competition – Terms and Conditions

 

1. The Promoter is New Island Books (company no. 186067), whose registered office is at 2 Brookside, Dundrum Rd, Dundrum, Dublin 14, Ireland.

 

2. The competition is open to persons aged 18 years or over who are habitually resident on the island of Ireland. Proof of such residence may be required by the Promoter.

 

3. Employees of RTE and of the Promoter and anyone else connected in any way with the competition or with helping to set up or run the competition are excluded from the competition.

 

4. There is no entry fee and no purchase is necessary to enter the competition.

 

5. Only one entry will be accepted per entrant.

 

6. Entries must be original works of fiction in the English language of up to but no longer than 100,000 words in length. Entries must not have been previously published in any form (print or digital, traditional of self-published) or under any other name. Entries must not have been submitted previously to the Promoter. No illustrated works or picture books will be considered. Entrants must detail their name, address, telephone number and e-mail address together with the genre of the book and the word count.

 

7. Entrants must submit their 500 word synopsis and their first 50 page sample to editor@newisland.ie with “Competition Submission” in the subject line, between 16:00hrs on Friday 10th January and Midnight Sunday 25th January 2014. Entries must be submitted in MS Word format and by email. Printed manuscripts will not be accepted, nor will manuscripts contained on CDs or other storage devices sent by post.

 

8. The closing date for receipt of entries is midnight Sunday 25th January 2014. After this date no further entries to the competition will be accepted.

 

9. Unsuccessful entries will be destroyed.

 

10. Shortlisted entries will be contacted to supply full manuscripts by Midnight Friday 21st February 2014. Shortlisted writers who cannot supply a full manuscript by this date will be eliminated.

 

11. No acknowledgment of receipt will be send. The Promoter accepts no responsibility for entries not received successfully for any reason whatsoever.

 

12. The prize for the winner of the competition is as follows:

 

A one book publishing deal contract with the Promoter, no advance, standard Irish publishing industry royalties. The Promoter will absorb all costs associated with publishing from editing, to cover design and print. Book to be published in 2014.

 

13. The Promoter is a service provider only and does not take any legal responsibility for the content of the winning entry.

 

14. The Promoter reserves the right to disqualify any entry if the entry criteria are not met, or if the entry contains defamatory, illegal or offensive material.

 

15. The Promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend the competition and these terms and conditions without notice in the event of a catastrophe, war, civil or military disturbance, act of God or any actual or anticipated breach of any law or regulation or any other event outside of the Promoter’s control.

 

16. No cash alternative to the prize will be offered. The prize is not transferable.

 

17. One winner will be chosen by an independent panel of judges appointed by the Promoter.

 

18. The decision of the panel of judges is final.

 

19. First the shortlist, then the winner will be announced on the RTE Today show. She or he must be available to appear on the show at a time or times agreed with the show’s producers, and must also make themselves available to be interviewed by representatives of the RTÉ Guide, if required. The winner agrees that their book can be included in all media and social media as deemed appropriate by the Promoter.

 

20. The Promoter’s decision in respect of all matters to do with the competition is final and no correspondence will be entered into. RTÉ DOES NOT HAVE, NOR TAKES, ANY RESPONSIBILITY (LEGAL OR OTHERWISE) FOR THE COMPETITION.

 

21. The competition and these terms and conditions will be governed by Irish law and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the Republic of Ireland.

 

22. The winner agrees to the use of his/her name and image in any publicity material created by the Promoter, by RTÉ or by the RTÉ Guide. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current Irish data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party (OTHER THEN RTÉ) without the entrant’s prior WRITTEN consent.

 

23. The Promoter reserves the right to change the title of the winning manuscript prior to publication.

 

24. By entering this competition, entrants will be deemed to have indicated their acceptance of and agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.

 

Privacy Statement

The Promoter is committed to protecting the security of your personal information. The information you provide to the Promoter will be safeguarded under the terms and conditions of the Data Protection Act 1988 and the Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2003 to ensure that the information you provide is safe and is used only for the purposes of the competition. The Promoter will not share your information with any third party not involved with the set up or running of the competition.

 

Although we endeavour to ensure the security of all correspondence, e-mail communications are not 100 per cent secure. Therefore we are unable to guarantee the security of any data you send electronically to us and cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage experienced through any loss of confidentiality of information.

Do you want something for free? Goodreads giveaway:

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Just Because...

by A Circle of Friends

Giveaway ends December 14, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter to win

Are you exactly where you should be?

Do you know when you have that feeling, the one that says ‘this feels exactly like where I should be’?

I recently signed up to a Playwriting Mentorship Program with Playwright John Sheehy, ‘Fred and Alice’ and ‘Set in Stone’ are just two examples of his wonderful work and I decided to adapt my short story ‘Who Won the War?’ into a play.

As the program is progressing I can see my play unfold before my eyes. It was also decided that we do it as a group and as a result the feedback and development assistance is invaluable. So, I have the pleasure of learning much more about the art of playwriting while doing so in the company of some very talented writers, Mary Angland, Mary T Bradford and Mary Anne Bartlett (along with our mentor John Sheehy of course). This way I get to be present as their plays unfold and gain strength too. It is such a supportive and progressive environment.

We had a meeting recently where, I know that if we didn’t all have other things to do in our lives, we would have stayed working at the plays for the night.

This playwright phase in my life feels exactly like where I should be and I am loving every minute of the process.

Mary Angland and Mary Bradford’s award winning stories can also be found along with mine, Daniel Kaye’s, Micheál O’Flaherty’s and Roisin Peddle’s in the newly released ‘Just Because…’ available now on Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Just-Because-collection-short-stories/dp/1492860360/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1383495639&sr=1-1&keywords=Just+Because+by+A+Circle+of+Friends

You can look inside … go on you know you want to.

Check out Mary Bradford’s short story collection ‘A Baker’s Dozen’ available on Kindle  http://www.amazon.com/A-Bakers-Dozen-Mary-Bradford-ebook/dp/B00976AGI4   or paperback http://www.amazon.com/Bakers-Dozen-Thirteen-Stories-Everyday/dp/1466403152/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1383495585&sr=1-1&keywords=a+bakers+dozen+by+Mary+T+Bradford

Check out Daniel Kaye’s short story collection ‘The Eleventh Hour’ Kindle  http://www.amazon.com/The-Eleventh-Hour-ebook/dp/B005KSS8DS or paperback  http://www.amazon.com/Eleventh-Hour-collection-fiction-published/dp/146636632X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1383495853&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Eleventh+Hour+by+Daniel+Kaye

Daniel’s much anticipated debut novel ‘I, Vladimir’ is due out Autumn 2014.

My offer of $1,000,000 - as promised, the letter from 'Steve'

In response to requests, here is the letter from ‘Mr. Steve’ as promised. This has been posted exactly as it was emailed to me spelling, layout and punctuation mistakes included.  (My email address under Bcc is the only item I have removed.)

I can only imagine how many this was sent to. But then again, if only one person replies, and is unfortunate enough to have giving them their bank details, then I suppose they consider it worth-while.

My response to this email is in the blog post underneath this.

 

Mr STEVE

01:02 AM

"STEVE WILLIAMS" <p.maclean@ntlworld.com

To

<No Recipient>

Bcc:

 

Dear ,

I am  Mr. Steve Williams, a banker by profession, currently working

with  Biao Bank in Abidjan  Cote Divoire.  I am the account manager of

late  Mr. Richard

Shelton,  the formal manager of Cocoa processing industry here in

Abidjan Cote Divoire.

On the 22nd of Dec.2009 ,our customer, his wife and only child

were involved in a ghastly motor accident, where all the occupants of

the vehicle unfortunately lost their lives.

Since then I have made several  inquiries  to  locate any of his

extended relatives or Business partners  and this has proved abortive.

After these several unsuccessful attempts, I decided to contact you for

your assistance to transfer the sum of( US$2.6 M ) (TWO Million Six

hundred thousand United States Dollars)

that was left behind by our customer in our bank .

The banking Law and guideline of BIAO BANK stipulates that if such

money remained unclaimed for over four years,  the money will be

converted into bank treasury as unclaimed fund.

Therefore i am  contacting you,  for your assistance to transfer the

money to your account.

I have decided to offer you 40 % of the total money for your assistance,

I also want to assure you that this transaction is legal. Therefore

you should not entertain any atom of fear as all required arrangements

have been made for the transfer .

Awaiting your immediate response

 

regards

 

Mr.STEVE WILLIAMS

 

 

Please warn anyone you know about this scam.

I just got offered over $1,000,000!!

What is 40% of 2.6 million Us Dollars???

Well, that’s what Steve Williams, Account Manager of Biao Bank in Abidjan Cote Divoire wants to give to somebody.

Who does he want to give it to?

Well me, he picked me, yes me, to get 40% of a2.6 million U.S. Dollars. It belongs to an account holder who had a tragic death about four years ago.

For what in return  you may well ask?

You see, according to Steve, if relatives or business partners of this account holder can't be found or the money isn’t claimed from their bank after four years, it can be offered to random strangers like me. Just like that!  

I just couldn’t contain my excitement but was concerned. I needed to offer some advice to Steve regarding his search for beneficiaries to the Mr. Richard Shelton fund. I just didn’t think he’d carried out enough searches.

Here’s what I replied to Steve Williams at stevwilliams006@yahoo.com :

Dear Steve,

I was very sad to hear of the demise of your customer.

40% of 2.6 million U.S. dollars is incredibly generous. I believe that amounts to just over 1 million U.S. dollars or €1.28 million euros. That would mean giving our Government just over €500,000 in gift tax. They will be delighted considering the state of the country’s finances.

I am concerned however, Steve, that you have not carried out enough checks to locate relations for Mr. Shelton's, those that would be considered his rightful beneficiaries. As I understand it, his wife's extended family would also have a right to his money. But you don't say that you have carried out a search for her family.

I feel I should do something to help. So, I have forwarded your details to my contacts in Interpol, the Police Force and the Revenue Commissioners. So, you'd never know, they may locate some relatives or business partners of the late Mr. and Mrs. Shelton.

Also, I would assume that as an account manager at a huge financial institution such as Biao Bank in Abidjan Cote Divoire that you would be afforded a secretary or personal assistant to do your typing for you. Considering the state of the punctuation and type-setting in your email, you either have none or the one you do have needs to be fired.

As you failed to put my name in at the start I shall sign it off with what you did address me as...

Yours Sincerely,

Random Comma.

I wonder if I'll get any further correspondence from 'Steve'.

Poetry's Rich Rewards

Poetry is written for the love of it. The monetary gain aspect of it is a far reaching promise that appears to the rare few.

Recently, a friend asked me to write a poem for her, to give to her husband as a gift. I used to do this a lot when I was younger. I once converted a poem I’d made for a bride on her hen night for the best man to read as a speech. Heavy censoring needed to be done, but it was recited by the best man to huge applause. I’m sure the video is out there somewhere.  Anyway back to the present, I agreed to her request, but she wanted to pay me, this I refused. 

Once she knew I wasn’t taking payment, I sat with pen in hand and asked her for a few details and it was up to her how personal she got. Let me say, she revealed quite a bit. Armed with my information, I left and scripted the piece. I returned shortly, with a four stanza poem for her to give to her husband which was, as such, from her. She was very happy and insisted on paying me again. But, after I refused she then gave me something else as payment… a dozen organic free-range eggs. Reassured with the fact that any hunger pangs would be kept away with my wonderful treat, I carried them home and stocked my fridge.

Later that night I sent her a message wondering how the poem went down with her husband. I can only assume that it was received quite well, because she wanted to know when she’d meet me again to give me more of her organic free-range eggs.

Who says you won’t get rich on poetry, eh.

Take a breather and consider….

When you’re writing a scene, as it unfolds in your imagination, do you visualise the weather in the particular scene? If you do, is it largely influenced by the weather conditions you are writing in at the time?

I’ve discovered that if the day is nice outside my window, then that is what I imagine my character to be in, as I work through a chapter or section of my novel or short story. It has come to my attention because Ireland has been having a lot of sunshine lately. Prior to this, I imagined my characters in cold and wet climates, which is typical Irish weather.

Also, does your mood influence what type of story you write, i.e. sad, happy, romantic or creepy? This, I must think about, but generally I find that mood only influences the result, which is either a productive one or not.

Long may the sunny Irish weather continue!

More Poetry for Pleasure - untitled

Indolent permit demurred.
Lush libretti purred.
Muse overflows.
Heading where?
Who knows?

Interview with MOCHA, MOONLIGHT, AND MURDER author MaryAnn Kempher!

Today, I’m happy to host newly published author MaryAnn Kempher whose new book  MOCHA, MOONLIGHT, AND MURDER will be FREE on Amazon.com 11-15 June.  

Welcome, MaryAnn.

Thank you so much for having me Marie.

MaryAnn, I thought we’d start with a few questions:

Why don’t you tell us a little about MOCHA, MOONLIGHT, AND MURDER.

First, it’s Romantic Suspense. I like to tell people if you like Jane Austen and/or Agatha Christie, you’ll love this book. It’s Romance and Mystery, and suspense, and comedy. And everyone who has read it has said, they didn’t see the ending coming. Which, to me, is a huge compliment.

The eventual romance is very realistic, very friendship-based, and doesn’t come easy.

Your Book has a lot of humor in it, mostly between the two main characters.

Yes, Katherine and Scott were made to harass each other. Because they’re friends, and aren’t trying to get each other into bed, they’re not afraid to give each other a hard time, this makes for some very funny dialogue. But the waiting ensures great sexual tension for them, and the reader. It also gives their romance a solid foundation.

How long did it take you to write your book?

I started writing my book on September 8^th 2008. But that date is misleading. I didn’t write consistently at first. Sometimes weeks would go by without writing. Those first drafts were real stinkers. The book was finally in really good shape in 2012. I started sending it out, and finally in December, a publisher expressed an interest in publishing my book.

Are you working on anything new?

Yes, I’m working on my second book. It’s not an actual sequel, but characters from my first book will make cameo appearances.

Is your second book Romantic Suspense too?

Yes, but less romance this time and more mystery. It’s set on a cruise ship. Two people are murdered and it’s up to the new head of security to find the killer before the cruise returns to port. If he doesn’t, the local police will take over, and he doesn’t want that.

Will this book have humor too?

Yes, always. Wherever there’s romance, there’s humor.

How can readers connect with you?

Multiple ways.

My website is http://mkempher.com

I’m active on Twitter, my Twitter handle is https://twitter.com/maryannkempher. 

I’m on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMaryAnnKempher?ref=hl

I’m on Goodreads and Pinterest too.

Thank you MaryAnn.

Thank you Marie.

 

More snippets of poetry for your pleasure

Giving a call,
To greet you all,
hope your words will fall,
to decorate parchment.

Marie O'Halloran

Some poetry for your pleasure.

Love drunk

Cream liquor skin.

Brandy flecked hair.

Finest wine kisses.

Intoxicating pair.

Mind-altering love,

too heady to bear.

 

©Marie O’Halloran

GILDED DESTINY: A Vesper Novella is live for Nook, Kindle, Kobo and in paperback on Amazon!

Paperback here!

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Next Big Thing

Thanks to Mary Bradford I’ve been tagged for The Next Big Thing and I am delighted to be a part of this on-rolling blog. It’s been enlightening answering these questions and I hope you will make a return visit here or follow me on Twitter. https://twitter.com/@MarieOHalloran2

What is my Next Big Thing?

The next big thing for me is getting proactive with my completed novel. I’d love to get it out there and I’m doing research at the moment on the best publishing houses or agents to send it to.

What is the working title of your book?

The title of my first completed novel is Subtle Changes   

Where did the idea come from for the book?

There is more to domestic violence than the physical aspect. I decided to look at it from a psychological point of view. How someone can exert control and manipulation that way. Also, when someone falls in love how much they are willing to change to please a person.

What genre does your book fall under?

I feel it falls under Psychological Thriller, similar to Elizabeth Haynes ‘Into the Darkest Corner’. http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9226039-into-the-darkest-corner a book I really enjoyed reading. It also received fantastic reviews.

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

I didn’t have to think about this for too long. My main character, Stephen Jones is dark and complex. He is charming and ambitious with a lot of baggage. That being said I think Tom Hardy would be ideal. I loved him in the t.v. adaptation of Martina Cole’s novel The Take.

His love interest Fiona Hunt, an independent, strong character, who is looking forward to her new job, meets her boss Stephen and innocently gets embroiled in his baggage would be played by either Olivia Wilde or Jessica Biel. I think both these actresses are incredibly talented. Or come to think about it, an unknown actress might be perfect. I love Cillian Murphy and James McAvoy so I would find spots for them too. That would be my dream team.

What is the one sentence synopsis of your book?

Stephen Jones is grieving for his dead fiancée, Leanne, until he sets his sights on Fiona, who resembles Leanne and uses manipulation and her love for him to try to change her to be identical, both in looks and personality.

How long did it take to write the 1st draft of your manuscript?

The idea rolled around in my mind for ages. I wrote about 15,000 words and left it for about a year. Then I met Mary Bradford and Declan Kearney (pen name Daniel Kaye). They found me lodged under their wings and I claimed squatter’s rights! There’s no getting rid of me now guys. They inspired me to continue. So I managed to finish to first draft in about 3 or 4 months.

Who or what inspired you to write this book?

I have seen and read about domestic situations through work. There are also ads on the internet promoting women’s awareness of when their partners are being too controlling. I decided to take this idea and write a story around it. It is so important to remember that if you are in a relationship like that to recognise the warning signs.

What else about your book might pique the readers’ interest?

Fiona is at odds with whether to start a relationship with Stephen. He is so damaged by the past that his perception of the present is dangerously altered. She has no idea of this so  unknown to Fiona, their relationship is fundamentally flawed by his underlying issues. Other characters have things that they are dealing with, so there are other storylines interwoven in the book.  Fiona is in too deep when he starts to show his true colours.

When and how will it be published?

Shout out to publishers’ and agents’ out there. I’d love to be able to hold my published book in my hands. Any medium, eBook or print to get it out there would be great. I will be announcing as soon as I get offered a contract. That’s why I’m researching the most appropriate destinations for it.

This Next Big Thing is a fantastic idea. Answering these questions have made me think more about my book and getting it out there. It reminded me of how much I enjoyed getting to know my characters. So many thanks to again to Mary Bradford. Check out http://marytbradford-author.blogspot.ie/2013/01/next-big-thing.html?spref=tw

Do you ever suffer writing hangovers?

 

Is there such a thing as word binging, word fatigue or even a word hangover? If there is I think I’m suffering from it.

 From a productive point of view it’s been a fantastic week. I said I would, and did make a great run at my writing. I sit here today itching to write more of my second novel or pen the winner of the next short story or poetry competition. I long to develop and expand my literary vocabulary but I’m exhausted. I think I have binged so much on words this week that I’m in a word slump. I still have loads I want to say, declare and proclaim, so to speak, on paper. I want to plant dark lettered seeds from fertile ideas, within blank white pages, to grow and configure something entertaining and reaction provoking.

It’s just… I feel like I’ve run the writing equivalent of a marathon. The mind is willing but the fingers are weak. It is futile taking a long break from it, (I don’t want to anyway) because that’s when they start tapping at my inner skull. Yes they, those characters that want to be born, give a speech or just make a remark. Once my pen gives birth to them they give me a little rest. Actually I’ve given them a lot of opportunity to speak this week so they need to give me a little break. Not long, just a little rest…until the next word binging session. So… bring it on!

Do you like Sherry Trifle?

I have three questions for you to consider. At first you may not see the connection but read on:

Do you like Sherry Trifle? Where do you get your inspiration? Where do you write?

This is my answer:

I wrote a ballad after a funny conversation with a friend. We were discussing the notion of eating Sherry Trifle that was laced with alcohol. We wondered if you were stopped by the Guards how many portions of it would put you over the legal limit for driving. This particular friend I find very inspiring so I decided to pen a ballad based on our chat.

A train journey the following day provided the perfect opportunity to put pen to paper. The first train wasn’t too busy, so I scribbled away at my ease, sniggering to myself. I had a connection change to a smaller train that provided less occupancy for the passengers. I took my seat and resumed my writing while continuing to giggle and laugh to myself as ‘The Ballad of the Sherry Trifle’ told its story.

All of a sudden I looked up and noticed how packed the train was but I remained at a four (small) seater table, on my own!

Well, the balled got written, I travelled in comfort and now I know how to gain the best space on a packed train.

Oh and according to the ballad what happened to the man who ate too much Sherry Trifle…well you’ll just have to watch this space and see.

Stephen Murray's Passion for Poetry

If you haven’t had the chance to attend a workshop by Stephen Murray, do so when the next opportunity arises.

His open, fervent and helpful nature created an environment where the depths of our hearts and souls were searched to draw out poetry. At the end of this very productive workshop, the results were a pleasure to hear, as my fellow attendees read out their pieces.

The passion for his craft shone through and he clearly enjoys reading as well as writing poetry. He lent his voice and read some pieces written in the workshop with as much passion as if he’d written them himself. It was definitely a worthwhile day.

Check out his work and his Facebook page here:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephen-Murray-Poet-Author-Raconteur/156795801014130

Writers who run or are considering it...

Those of us who write know the perils of sitting on our rear ends for long periods of time. Getting some exercise in when you’re on a writing roll would not necessarily be high on your list of things to do. However, getting out and breathing fresh air, by going for a walk or even a jog, could open your mind to progress your story when you’re wondering where you want it to go next.

For those of you who write and run (or run and write), I don’t advocate doing both at the same time, there is a resource you should really check out.

http://intelligentrunning.com/about-2

George Anderson’s intelligent running website contains very helpful tips and hints.

I had the opportunity to submit a piece about returning to running after an injury and he included it in his website. Check mine and Amy Martin’s story here http://intelligentrunning.com/returning-to-running-after-an-injury

Sitting for long periods, then expecting your body to kick into exercise mode can cause injuries. There are some great tips on the best stretches to help the transition.

George’s ‘Beginner’s Luck' programme is free to download here http://intelligentrunning.com/ and is a great way to start off or return to running after an extended break.

Check it out and let me know what you think.

Creative Musings

Creative Musings

I have to confess,
my mind is a mess,
ideas and thoughts,
all over the place.

But surely I'll find,
if I settle my mind,
my masterpiece
will get written post haste.

The title of my new novel.......

sub·tle

adj. sub·tler, sub·tlest

1.

a. So slight as to be difficult to detect or describe; elusive: a subtle smile.

b. Difficult to understand; abstruse: an argument whose subtle point was lost on her opponent.

2. Able to make fine distinctions: a subtle mind.

3.

a. Characterized by skill or ingenuity; clever.

b. Crafty or sly; devious.

c. Operating in a hidden, usually injurious way; insidious: a subtle poison

 

 

change (chnj)

v. changed, chang·ing, chang·es

v.tr.

1.

a. To cause to be different.

b. To give a completely different form or appearance to; transform.

2. To give and receive reciprocally; interchange: change places.

3. To exchange for or replace with another, usually of the same kind or category: change one's name;

4.

a. To lay aside, abandon, or leave for another; switch: change methods; change sides.

b. To transfer from (one conveyance) to another: change planes.

 

v.intr.

1. To become different or undergo alteration.

2. To undergo transformation or transition.

3. To go from one phase to another, as the moon or the seasons.

 

n.

1. The act, process, or result of altering or modifying.

2. The replacing of one thing for another; substitution: a change of atmosphere; a change of ownership.

3. A transformation or transition from one state, condition, or phase to another: the change of seasons.

 

The title of my new novel 'Subtle Changes'

 

Ready To Query?

When you're at the querying stage it is important to take note of good advice.

Check out http://daniel-kaye.blogspot.ie/ for excellent advice re: social media and writing in general.

Check out Mike Wells' blog for some great tips about landing a good literary agent. Mike Well's Blog

Just to add to the above and follow on from my last tip, I'd like to share some more advice.

See if the agent/publisher you are querying has a regularily updated blog. You may find more useful information by checking their page. Also, see if they're on twitter, they may post helpful hints as to the genre they are accepting, at the time you're ready to query. It could save wasting your and their time by sending work that may be on their general submissions guidelines, but specifically they want the fifth genre down the list because they are inundated with the others.

Also, they may share information as to what stage they're at in relation to current queries. For example if their submission guidelines say to allow six to eight weeks before they let you know and the date six/eight weeks on is highlighted on your calender, before you send a follow up, check their blog/twitter/facebook. Here, they may be more likely to share that they're actally twelve weeks behind. This helps you plan your follow-up query in a more timely manner - and you'd never know you might hear in the meantime.

Of course, I am not advocating stalking any agent or publisher but, if they are good enough to share the above information on a public forum it would be silly not to make use of it.

Happy writing and happy querying.

One Last Check Before Pressing Send

Ready to send your novel out for consideration?

You are cross-eyed, demented and you swear you will do something drastic if you have to read those first few lines again! You've felt like you have gone over it enough and you copy and paste it into the email after composing it with care.

Subject entered, destination address entered, then your finger hovers as you ready yourself to press send...but wait, just give it one more read after you copy it to the body of the email.

It is a different format so giving it a reread might highlight that little error you may have scanned over or missed by the skin of it's teeth. Usually, it's only up to ten pages to be submitted. It's not as if you have to go over the entire three hundred and odd pages again.

So give it one last check before pressing send.

A poem for Mother's Day

Here is a rhyming one for all the mammies!

Mother

 

When you had us kids,

mum became your name.

Regardless of you real one,

when we called it out, you came.

 

You’d hear us near and far,

there was nothing you couldn’t fix,

you’d appear, ready to act,

with a plaster or a kiss.

 

There for every moment,

from tiny steps to mighty leaps,

and because of that we love you,

heaps and heaps and heaps.

Five Sentence Fiction - Whisper

Time for a new prompt for Lillie’s Five Sentence Fiction. This week the magic word is WHISPER. Check out the other contributions at http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=249784

Helpless

Rosie’s body shivered as the cold set in and a damp sensation pooled underneath her helpless body. She didn’t know where the shot came from; she just knew that she would be in serious trouble if she didn’t get help soon.

Hearing footsteps and a familiar voice she called out, “Sam, Sam, help me please“.

He bent down and whispered, “sure I will.”

Standing over her, he raised the gun, firing an exterminating slug into her brain.

Keith Hanley Interview

Keith Hanley Interview: Ken Wheeler caught up with Voice of Ireland hopeful Keith Hanley after the talented teen got through to the live shows.

Interview with author Mary T Bradford

Have a listen as Mary talks about her short story collection 'A Baker's Dozen' - a collection of 13 short stories about life, love, loss and dilemmas, on BCR 92.6

Interview with author Mary T Bradford

Her new novel 'A Thorn in my Side' get a mention too. Mary and the presenters Charlotte Grimely and John Harrold promote the advantage of print.

Lets Talk Books

I got the opportunity, along with authors Daniel Kaye, Declan Kearney and Mary Bradford, to speak about the launch of Anthology 'Windows of Words' that we have contributed to, on BCR 92.6. We also get to mention our own books: Daniel Kaye's collection of 'Eleventh Hour'; his novel due for release soon 'I, Vladimir'; Mary T Bradford's 'collection of short stories 'A Baker's Dozen ' and her new novel 'A Thorn in my Side' and my own just completed novel 'Subtle Changes'.

Charleville Writers Group: Declan Kearney, Mary Bradford and Marie O' Halloran of the Charleville Writers Group popped in to the studio recently to talk to Charlotte about what the group is up to and about their upcoming book launch.

For Mary's collection:

Mary's book is available here! Easy peasy just click the link!


For Daniel's collection:

Get Daniel's book here! Easy peasy just click the link!

Five Sentence Fiction - Empty

Time for a new prompt for Lillie’s Five Sentence Fiction. This weeks’ is EMPTY http://lilliemcferrin.com/five-sentence-fiction-empty/ Check out the other contributions at http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=244375

A big welcome to the 5SF link Mary Bradford Check out her contribution at http://marytbradford-author.blogspot.ie/2013/03/5-sentence-fiction-challenge.html?spref=fb

 

Empty

Empty… she never knew what he meant by this. Ambitious, progressive, intelligent were the words she used to describe herself, never empty.

“Wait, it’s too soon, not yet” or “it is not the right time”, were always the excuses she’d use when he pressed her to progress their relationship.

Now, as she looks around her large penthouse apartment and sips a solitary latte, she wonders who to share the news of her latest promotion with. He is long gone, she now knows what he meant by empty.

An afternoon with Poet Tony Curtis – Reading at Ennis Book Club Festival Saturday 2nd March 2013

Every so often things happen that lead you on certain paths. At first, you don’t put too much thought into where they might take you and you go along for the ride. I did such a thing on Saturday and I wasn’t disappointed. In a previous post I shared the news that one of my poems was picked to be a runner up in a recent competition. As a result of this, I received a pair of tickets to see Tony Curtis. This poet’s talents are well listed http://www.tonycurtisirishpoet.com/blog.php but I had never attended one of his readings.

A relaxed Mr. Curtis strode into the room and was introduced. He described himself as ‘a bendy kinda soul’ and always dressing in black and white.  Sharing stories of his life and inspirations behind his work, his entertaining descriptions enthralled me. Orating from his collection ‘Folk’ and his new one ‘The Connemara Pony’, I was hooked. The evening got better as he recited ‘The Garden flat’, written at the railing of Michael Hartnett’s house http://www.eigsemichaelhartnett.ie/michael-hartnett-1941-1999.html and ‘What darkness covers’, the last poem Tony read to Michael before his passing. He spoke with affection of his friendship with Dennis O’Driscoll http://dennisodriscoll.com/ and his last encounter with him before his passing in December 2012.

Laughter filled the room as he told us of how the Arts Council did a report into why he was so popular with the people who call the Central Mental Hospital their home. His regard for its occupants was evident as he spoke of how he felt when reading there and shared two poems reflecting life in such an institution.  

We had the pleasure of being the first audience to hear two new pieces ‘Civil War’ and one about Elizabeth Bishop http://www.poetryfoundation.org/bio/elizabeth-bishop before he finished the evening with a song.

Overall it was worth the journey to Ennis to attend the event and I look forward to reading my signed copy of ‘Folk’ over the coming weeks.

Good news to share - my poem 'Friendship' - came runner up in Caring for Carers Ireland National Poetry Competition

I’m sharing good news. My poem ‘Friendship’ came runner-up in the ‘Caring for Carers Ireland National Poetry Competition’. Well done to the winner Clara Hurley with her poem ‘Weaver’, click here to read her well deserved winning poem http://www.caringforcarers.ie/2013/02/friendships-bring-out-the-creative-side-of-carers/ I’d like to share mine with you here:

Friendship

My heart is adorned,

with many treasures,

my friend’s names,

embroidered throughout.

 

Scribed on the surface,

then absorbed deep,

where I keep them

safeguarded within.

 

My heart has lodgings,

for friends new and old,

blood may flow through,

but it’s bursting with gold.

Different Paths

It’s that time of the week again for Lillie’s Five Sentence Fiction http://lilliemcferrin.com/five-sentence-fiction-abandoned/ Check out the other contributions at http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=244375 This weeks word is ABANDONED

Different Paths

Fiona often thought back to the dreams she gave up when she fell pregnant at 16.

“She’s the brains of the family and will go far,” her father used to boast, but not after she broke the news to him.

Today, she looks around at the proud faces of her children and grandchildren as the ceremony gets underway.

“I knew you could do it and I’m delighted to be here to see it,” her father’s says and hugs her as tight as his arthritis ridden body can manage.

As she proudly accepts her degree, she appreciates that they weren’t abandoned dreams, just put on hold while she took a different path to get to this point.

Five Sentence Fiction - PURPLE

Different Shades

Sometimes they are yellow, sometimes just blue. I used to love putting on makeup to look my best, now it’s worn for another reason. Last night some came up deep purple. So many factors influence the colours. My body shows different shades of pain, just depends on how hard he hits.

Check out the other contributors http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=239604

I am a writer...

This may look like some obvious declaration to the world but it's not. I shall explain, Mary Bradford http://marytbradford-author.blogspot.ie drew my attention recently to a great competition at http://www.carousel-creates.com . They gave us four words 'I am a writer' as inspiration to write a piece. As the very worthy winners have been announced, (big congrats to Hazel Gaynor, John McCarthy and Grace Tierney and those who were short listed), I’d like to share what I wrote with you. I found it a very worthy exercise. Perhaps it will give you cause to ponder, feel free to share your thoughts:

I am a writer…

I ask my computer daily if it is ready to consume the words I’m about to write. I can feel its anticipation and sometimes I can’t type fast enough for my brain.  Then other times sit there for ages with the cursor blinking, teasing, inviting but performance anxiety gets to me and nothing pops into my head. I revert on occasion to simpler tools and choose to use pen and paper. I can even sometimes feel the journey the words take from my brain, along my arms and out through my fingers.

It’s enriched me, initiating a wonder about creativity. I look at things different to how I used to. My awareness level peaks as I absorb things that surround me. They were always around me I just didn’t appreciate them.  Now, I don’t just read a book, I immerse myself in it. I don’t just watch a movie, I appreciate how it is constructed. I think about what the person may have thought when they wrote the script. How they sat down and put everything together.

It also awakened the critic in me. I find I edit everything, people speaking, reporters on telly, D.J.’s on the radio. It’s funny because I also edit myself. I find that I have to stop and spell the simplest of words that rolled off my tongue before.

Most of all I love the journey writing takes me on. By sharing it I can bring others along too. I don’t need a vehicle to transport my readers, I don’t need to tax and insure my computer or paper. It’s a free ride on an adventure because I am a writer.

Shattered Dreams - RIP Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe

Shattered Dreams

On entering the gates of the Garda Training College in Templemore, Co. Tipperary, Garda recruits have many dreams. They dream of making a difference, helping people, becoming Detective, Sergeant, even some day possibly, Commissioner.

Hitting the blue lights and sirens ensure rapid flow through a busy street or town. The adrenalin racing through the bloodstream when entering a dangerous situation induces thoughts of ‘who needs help?’ or ‘where are we needed?’ not ‘what could happen to me?’

The families of eighty seven Gardaí who looked on with pride as they graduated did not dream of walking behind the tri-colour draped coffin of their loved one. Those that trained and served with them never dream they will have to recall the steps of the funeral march to accompany their colleague’s remains.

Gardaí may dream of receiving a medal for bravery but never dream that their families have to receive it on their behalf.

RIP Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe

Five Sentence Fiction - Forgotten

The opportunity of lifetime arrived and I couldn’t wait. I joined the queue and looked around at the other nine lucky people who got this chance. ‘Make sure you bring your pass, no admission without it’, the instruction had been delivered clearly, so I searched my pockets.

My flimsy tissue crumbled under the weight of my tears as I’d realised I’d forgotten mine.

140 Character Story (Inspired by Twitter)

Senses fully alert as I stumble around.Can't find a way out.A film of rust lines my tongue.Hands grab me.Any hope of escape now gone.

Next Big Thing

Next Big Thing

Thanks to Mary Bradford I’ve been tagged for The Next Big Thing and I am delighted to be a part of this on-rolling blog. It’s been enlightening answering these questions and I hope you will make a return visit here or follow me on Twitter. https://twitter.com/@MarieOHalloran2

What is my Next Big Thing?

The next big thing for me is getting proactive with my completed novel. I’d love to get it out there and I’m doing research at the moment on the best publishing houses or agents to send it to.

What is the working title of your book?

The title of my first completed novel is Subtle Changes   

Where did the idea come from for the book?

There is more to domestic violence than the physical aspect. I decided to look at it from a psychological point of view. How someone can exert control and manipulation that way. Also, when someone falls in love how much they are willing to change to please a person.

What genre does your book fall under?

I feel it falls under Psychological Thriller, similar to Elizabeth Haynes ‘Into the Darkest Corner’. http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9226039-into-the-darkest-corner a book I really enjoyed reading. It also received fantastic reviews.

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

I didn’t have to think about this for too long. My main character, Stephen Jones is dark and complex. He is charming and ambitious with a lot of baggage. That being said I think Tom Hardy would be ideal. I loved him in the t.v. adaptation of Martina Cole’s novel The Take.

His love interest Fiona Hunt, an independent, strong character, who is looking forward to her new job, meets her boss Stephen and innocently gets embroiled in his baggage would be played by either Olivia Wilde or Jessica Biel. I think both these actresses are incredibly talented. Or come to think about it, an unknown actress might be perfect. I love Cillian Murphy and James McAvoy so I would find spots for them too. That would be my dream team.

What is the one sentence synopsis of your book?

Stephen Jones is grieving for his dead fiancée, Leanne, until he sets his sights on Fiona, who resembles Leanne and uses manipulation and her love for him to try to change her to be identical, both in looks and personality.

How long did it take to write the 1st draft of your manuscript?

The idea rolled around in my mind for ages. I wrote about 15,000 words and left it for about a year. Then I met Mary Bradford and Declan Kearney (pen name Daniel Kaye). They found me lodged under their wings and I claimed squatter’s rights! There’s no getting rid of me now guys. They inspired me to continue. So I managed to finish to first draft in about 3 or 4 months.

Who or what inspired you to write this book?

I would have seen and read about domestic situations and ads on the internet promoting women’s awareness of when their partners are being too controlling. I decided to take this idea and write a story around it. It is so important to remember that if you are in a relationship like that to recognise the warning signs.

What else about your book might pique the readers’ interest?

Fiona is at odds with whether to start a relationship with Stephen. She cannot resist him and they get together. Unknown to Fiona, their relationship is fundamentally flawed by his underlying issues. Other characters have thing that they are dealing with, so there are other storylines interwoven in the book. Their distraction means his behaviour goes unnoticed. He starts to come apart when others realise what he is doing. She in in too deep when he starts to show his true colours.

When and how will it be published?

Shout out to publishers’ and agents’ out there. I’d love to be able to hold my published book in my hands. Any medium, eBook or print to get it out there would be great. I will be announcing as soon as I get offered a contract. That’s why I’m researching the most appropriate destinations for it.

This Next Big Thing is a fantastic idea. Answering these questions have made me think more about my book and getting it out there. It reminded me of how much I enjoyed getting to know my characters. So many thanks to again to Mary Bradford. Check out http://marytbradford-author.blogspot.ie/2013/01/next-big-thing.html?spref=tw Thank you too to previous posters Jillian Godsil and Susan Condon. Check then out at http://susancondon.wordpress.com/tag/jillian-godsil/ and http://jilliangodsil.com/ for previous posts.

Now over to my both creative and interesting fellow writers, watch their posts on Wed. 30th January 2013

Daniel Kaye

https://daniel-kaye.blogspot.ie/

https://twitter.com/@DanielKaye_

Roisin Peddle

@randomDescent