Pam Lecky's Blog, page 27
July 9, 2018
In the Library with Irish Author Susie Murphy @susiemwrites
This evening in the Library we have Susie Murphy, who has dropped in to say hello and to share some insights into her life as a debut author.
[image error] You are very welcome, Susie, particularly as you are a fellow Irish historical fiction author. Please introduce yourself:
I have been writing stories since I was eleven years old so publishing my first novel this week is a dream come true for me! My book, A Class Apart, is the first volume in my six-part series A Matter of Class.
Did you read much as a child? Are you an avid reader now? Do you prefer books in your own genre or are you happy to explore others?
I have a vivid memory of me at age seven climbing a stairs and going through big double doors into a library in Waterford. The awe that I felt in that moment was when my love of books began. I was a voracious reader in those early days (a lot of Enid Blyton and Ann M. Martin), and my mother says my most common phrase at the time was ‘I finished the book’. That carried on through my teens (I read The Lord of the Rings twice in a row in the few months running up to my Junior Cert state exams…), but college was my period of drought – I read a grand total of two books in three years. Since then, however, I am never without a book. My Kindle goes everywhere with me in my bag and I always have an audiobook in the car.
While historical fiction is my favourite genre, I do enjoy a lot of fantasy and young adult books too. I’m open to reading anything but love stories are my hook. So if the book has even a small romantic storyline you’ll have me invested in it, no matter what genre it is.
Are you self-published or traditionally published?
I am a self-published author. I did make attempts to go down the traditional publishing route and received my fair share of rejections, all of which I value because I used the feedback to make my book better. Over time, self-publishing became the more appealing option to me as I love the idea of having full control over my book. I get the final say on the edit and cover design and promotion, and that’s very appealing to me.
Which genre do you write in and why?
I write historical fiction set in the 1800s. I find the past a truly captivating place to escape to. I especially love the 19th century because it’s near enough to modern times to be somewhat relatable and yet is still so different to the way we live now. The customs of the time fascinate me – I adore the idea of writing a letter with a quill, stepping into a horse-drawn carriage to go to a ball, marking the name of a dashing gentleman on a dance card. Don’t get me wrong, I have no illusions about the hardships of the era! Of course there were many inequalities and poor conditions, particularly for the lower classes. But I do love to daydream…
Who has been the biggest influence on your writing?
Diana Gabaldon, author of the Outlander series. I just discovered her books in the last three years and can only wonder how I ever survived before that. Remember how I said I’m hooked by love stories? Well, I believe Outlander is the greatest love story out there. I really admire Gabaldon for the way she tells such a gripping tale, and evokes the time period with amazing detail, and makes a reader feel like they will burst if they don’t read on. I have learned so much from her about characterisation and structure and historical settings. Reading her books made me realise that I had been writing my own series in a little bubble. Outlander showed me the scale of historical fiction and gave me the encouragement to expand my series beyond the limited boundaries I had originally set for it. And Gabaldon’s writing style is exactly the kind I like – while I can’t emulate it, I can strive to make my own better because of it.
Has your country of origin/culture influenced your writing?
I’m from Ireland and my book is set in Ireland, so yes! The 19th century was a turbulent time in Irish history and I felt it served as the perfect backdrop to the story I wanted to write. They say ‘write what you know’ – I obviously haven’t lived in the 1800s, but I studied Irish history in school, and I learned how to speak Irish, and I know what it feels like to walk around my grandparents’ old Irish cottage and smell a peat fire, and those kinds of things were definitely helpful in crafting my story.
What part of the writing process do you find most difficult? How do you overcome it?
Writing without editing. When I’m drafting brand new sections, I itch to read back as I go along to make sure what I’ve written is making sense and properly punctuated. But that’s the best way to blunder to a halt and never make any forward progress. I have to just put the head down and remind myself that I can edit later. Oh, but what did I say three paragraphs ago— edit later. Oh, but just one quick look— edit LATER.
Do you have a favourite time of day to write?
I gain a certain satisfaction from writing first thing in the morning and achieving some small goal while still in my pyjamas! Then the day is off to a good start. However, I have also had some special writing sessions burning the midnight oil, when only myself and my characters are awake.
What is the best thing about being an author? And the flipside – what is the worst?
The best thing is having a reader react positively to what I’ve written, whether it’s a blog post, a short story or a novel. It makes me so happy to know I’ve accomplished something that has resonated with someone else.
The worst thing is the crippling self-doubt. Who am I to think I can write anything? But getting the type of reaction above is the boost that encourages me to keep going.
Is social media an essential chore or something you enjoy? Which forum do you prefer?
I recognise social media as an essential aspect of being an author in this day and age, but I don’t view it as a chore. I think it’s a privilege to get so close to other authors and readers in what was once quite an isolated occupation. I do wish I was better at it though! I agonise over every post and tweet before I hit send. Of all the forums, I enjoy Twitter the most as a place to discover interesting links, read entertaining tweets, and interact with lovely people!
If you weren’t an author, what would you be up to?
As my writing career is only just taking off, I still work by day as a piano teacher. One of the nicest parts of my job is walking down the school corridors and hearing music coming from every room (even if there’s still some scope for improvement…!).
For years I have devoted all my free time to developing my writing, but if I wasn’t doing that I think I’d like to join a choir for fun. I’m no opera singer but I can hold a tune and love to sing harmonies. I’ve been in choirs in school and college and there’s a great joy in hearing the different vocal parts combine to make one beautiful sound.
It’s the last day and the earth is facing oblivion – what book would you read?
Just one? A cruel question, if ever I heard one! I have always had a huge affection for Watership Down by Richard Adams as it was my favourite book to read as a child. Although I think I would probably get some strange looks to have my nose in a book while it’s raining fire from the sky.
Please tell us about your debut novel:
A Class Apart, is available in both ebook and paperback from July 10th. Set in Ireland in 1828, it’s the first book in my six-part historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The series follows heiress Bridget and stable hand Cormac who are on opposite sides of the class divide – and because of that, society says they shouldn’t fall in love. Keep an eye out for the second volume, A Class Entwined, coming in 2019!
Buy Link: Amazon UK
Thank you very much for having me today, Pam!
I am sure we would all like to wish Susie the very best of luck with her debut release tomorrow and her future writing career. It was a pleasure to chat to her this evening.
If you would like to know about Susie and her work, please check out the links below:
Website: www.susiemurphywrites.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/susiemurphywrites
Twitter: www.twitter.com/susiemwrites
July 6, 2018
In the Library with Author Sarah Dahl
This evening in the Library we have Sarah Dahl, who has dropped in to say hello and to share some insights into her life as an author.
Sarah, you are very welcome. Please introduce yourself:
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I live on the edge of the rural German Eifel and write historical fiction primarily set in the Viking age. I’m interested in everyday life in bygone centuries and the human stories that may have occurred behind the hard, historical facts. I don’t focus on the kings and chieftains, but the very people battling to love and survive. The “You & Me” of previous centuries, because to them I can relate most. Find my books on sarah-dahl.com
Are you an avid reader now? Do you prefer books in your own genre or are you happy to explore others?
I’ve always been and still am an avid reader. I always read half a dozen books simultaneously: on the desk and floors: research books and articles, on the desk and nightstand: histfic by authors I adore (try Nicola Griffith), and on the nightstand and my phone, for pure relaxation: some cosy crime or thrillers. I can’t read in exactly my own genre, which I would describe as sensual histfic romance – I’m too close to it. I can’t relax, I analyse, criticise, I am too brutal or too envious, in case the writing is rubbish or really great. It’s a Berufskrankheit (trade disease) as we say 
June 30, 2018
Historical Fiction Cover Winner June 2018
What draws you to a historical fiction book cover?
Each month I will be choosing my ‘Pam’s Pick’. Hopefully, you will be intrigued enough to look beyond the covers I feature and find your next favourite author. If a cover interests you just click on the link to learn more about the book.
My June winner is:
Chasing Ghosts by Madalyn Morgan
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This month there is a bit of a theme going on and this cover triggered it! What a clever cover this is – perfectly fits its genre. Even the title caught my eye. The use of a sepia image and the red text is just perfect. The good news is that this is only one book in a 6 book series. Congratulations to Madalyn!
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In 1949 after receiving treatment for shell shock in Canada, Claire’s husband disappears.
Has Mitch left her for the woman he talks about in his sleep? Or is he on the run from accusations of wartime treachery?
Claire goes to France in search of the truth, aided by old friends from the Resistance.
To find out more, please click here
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Continuing our WW2 theme, here are some other wonderful covers.
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The Yankee Years series: During the Second World War Northern Ireland hosted American, British and Canadian troops. County Fermanagh welcomed Air Force squadrons hunting U-boats and defending shipping convoys in the Atlantic Ocean and Army battalions training and preparing for deployment to Europe’s Western Front. After the Allied troops arrived, life would never be the same again. The Yankee Years novels and Short Reads weave thrilling and romantic tales of the people and the era.
To find out more, please click here
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When an accomplished dancer is injured before the international jitterbug contest, June is tapped to take her place. June struggles to overcome her fears, win the contest, and not fall in love with her—otherwise engaged—dance partner.
Fifty years earlier, WW2 era, another 18-year-old jitterbug, Violet, leads the life June and her friends emulate. But Violet’s life begins to unravel when she and her sailor beau find her grifting father passed out on her doorstep, blood oozing from his head.
They race against his deployment to tie the knot before the war can tear them apart. When his letters mysteriously stop arriving, Violet is forced to make the decision of a lifetime alone.
Half a century later, while practicing for the contest, June finds an antique dress which may lead her to the one person she’s been looking for, her biological grandmother, and the key to unlocking a fifty year-old mystery.
THE GIRL IN THE JITTERBUG DRESS is the parallel story of two young women struggling with love, loss, and redemption, united across generations by a 1940’s swing dress.
To find out more, please click here
And the not so small print: the judge’s decision is final (that would be me!) and is highly subjective.
Please note this is a cover competition only and does not constitute a review of any of the books featured. It’s up to you to explore. Happy Reading!
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Watch out every month for the next featured selection of great covers, and don’t forget, if you read a book and love it, post a review and make an author happy.
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June 11, 2018
A Conversation with Author Patricia Asedegbega
This evening in the Library we have Patricia Asedegbega, who has dropped in to say hello and to share some insights into her life as an author.
You are very welcome, Patricia, please introduce yourself:
[image error]I live in sunny Spain and have been writing for about six years now. I started with a collection of cat stories to raise funds for a shelter and then moved on to my first suspense novel. I write both in Spanish and English and have series in both languages. Though I am a biologist, writing is my true passion. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to do what I love.
Did you read much as a child? Are you an avid reader now? Do you prefer books in your own genre or are you happy to explore others?
I devoured books as a child and read everything I could get my hands on. I still enjoy doing so now although I have less time. I like discovering new authors in my favourite genre which is suspense.
Are you self-published or traditionally published?
My first two books were co-published but I can´t say the results were satisfactory, so I have been self-published since then. I like being able to control everything in the creative process.
Which genre do you write in and why?
I write suspense with a touch of my particular brand of humour. I´ve always liked reading mystery novels with the ability to surprise me. so choosing to write in that genre was something that came very natural to me.
Who has been the biggest influence on your writing?
Definitely Agatha Christie, I started reading her wok when I was quite young and through the years I have reread most of her books. I think her writing style has stood the passage of time.
Has your country of origin/culture influenced your writing?
I am half Spanish and half Nigerian and I´ve been lucky to have lived in both countries. Their diverse cultures have enriched my life and as a result, my writing. I do hope this comes across to the reader when they read my books.
What part of the writing process do you find most difficult? How do you overcome it?
I enjoy almost every part of the writing process, even when I get blocked. For me the difficulty lies in what comes afterwards. I do not at all enjoy the marketing aspect, I wish I could just write and write, but I do want to get my work out there.
Do you have a favourite time of day to write?
For now I have to write in my spare time when I´m done with my day job so I do so mostly at weekends.
What is the best thing about being an author? And the flipside – what is the worst?
I love developing an idea, creating characters and somehow bringing the plot to life. Getting feedback from readers is something that makes my day as it has been mainly positive; they encourage me to go on. The worst part for me would be dealing with marketing the book.
Is social media an essential chore or something you enjoy? Which forum do you prefer?
Definitely a chore because it takes time away from writing or doing other things, but I know it is a necessity and a good tool to use to reach and inform readers. I guess Facebook would be my favourite.
If you weren’t an author, what would you be up to?
I would have loved to follow my second passion and become a chef.
It’s the last day and the earth is facing oblivion – what book would you read?
The Bible.
Please tell us about your latest published work.
[image error]I just released Class of 2008 for pre-order. It is the sequel to I stand corrected and is a suspense series co-narrated by a cat and his mistress from their very different points of view.
After surviving the near-death experience at the hands of her husband, “cold eyes,” Rosario and her feline friend Balou are trying to get some semblance of normality back into their lives A new home, new surroundings, old friends, and plenty of rest is just what the doctor ordered, had he been consulted. Balou’s law of minimum effort means days spent licking his paws in the sun, but Balou’s practice is soon shaken to its very foundation. When a dear friend’s innocent class reunion goes horribly wrong, their peace is shattered. In a race against time, the amateur sleuths navigate the muddy waters of old secrets and friendships to try to save the day, but the clock is ticking and it might very well be too late…
This gripping new tale of suspense is the second in the Rosario and Balou series, from the author of I Stand Corrected.
Class of 2008 is now available for pre-order. Click here.
If you would like to know more about Patricia and her work, please see the links below:
https://www.facebook.com/PatriciasUniverse/
https://www.instagram.com/patriciaspen/
https://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_1_14?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=patricia+asedegbega&sprefix=patricia+asede%2Caps%2C239&crid=1PLYBMGH774VN
June 8, 2018
A Conversation with Author Mimi Matthews
Today in the library, I have a very special guest; fellow Victorianist and historical fiction author, Mimi Matthews. I have been following Mimi’s super blog posts for ages and always been impressed by her knowledge of the Victorian era. Having read two of her novels (which I can highly recommend), I am looking forward to the release of her newest book on Victorian beauty and fashion in July. Her novel, The Lost Letter is on special promotion at the moment (a cracking read); see details and link below.
You are very welcome, Mimi, please introduce yourself:
I’m an author of both historical non-fiction and historical romance. My books include The Pug Who Bit Napoleon, The Lost Letter, and The Viscount and the Vicar’s Daughter.
Did you read much as a child? Are you an avid reader now? Do you prefer books in your own genre or are you happy to explore others?
I was a total bookworm as a child. I read everything available—literally everything—and still do. My tastes are pretty broad. I love historical romance and historical non-fiction, of course, but I also really enjoy epic fantasy, horror, and classic literature. Suffice to say, if it’s well written, I’ll read it.
Are you self-published or traditionally published?
I’m a hybrid author, which means that some of my books are traditionally published and some are published as an indie author.
Which genre do you write in and why?
I write both historical non-fiction and historical romance. Why? I simply love the 19th century. I’ve been researching and writing about it for quite a few years. There’s nothing I enjoy more than discovering some quirky bit of Victorian history.
Who has been the biggest influence on your writing?
So many authors! Jane Austen, the Brontë’s, Elizabeth Gaskell, Georgette Heyer, Amanda Quick. I’ve also been lucky to have lots of positive influences on my writing in regular life—from my first literary agent to college and law professors. The most consistent influence has, of course, been my mom. She’s always been encouraging, even when I was very young and wouldn’t let her read my novels.
Has your country of origin/culture influenced your writing?
[image error]I’m an American—or, more specifically, a Californian—but I don’t think it’s had much influence on my writing. My non-fiction books deal primarily with 19th century history and my novels are set in Victorian England. It’s all very different from where I live in real life!
What part of the writing process do you find most difficult? How do you overcome it?
It’s often really hard for me to make time to write, especially during times of stress. I don’t usually prioritize my writing unless I have a deadline. Having a firm deadline really helps me to stay on track.
Do you have a favourite time of day to write?
Mid-morning to mid-afternoon is my most productive time. But if I’m inspired, I’ll write whenever I can.
What is the best thing about being an author? And the flipside – what is the worst?
For me, the solitude is both the best thing and the worst thing. I really like being alone and quiet so I can focus on my work, but too much solitude can be a little depressing.
Is social media an essential chore or something you enjoy? Which forum do you prefer?
I was never on social media until my literary agent said I had to join in order to establish an “author platform.” Initially, I really resented it. Now, however, there are definitely parts I enjoy. Twitter is my favorite, but Facebook is better for sharing images from my research or posting news about my books.
If you weren’t an author, what would you be up to?
I’m a lawyer in real life, so I’d probably just continue doing that.
It’s the last day and the earth is facing oblivion – what book would you read?
Oh gosh. Probably The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The final lines are pure poetry. Then again, if the earth was facing oblivion, I’m not sure I’d be in much of a reading mood…
Please tell us what you are working on at the moment:
My next non-fiction book A Victorian Lady’s Guide to Fashion and Beauty is coming out in July Click here to pre-order.
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My next Victorian romance The Matrimonial Advertisement is coming out in September. Click here to pre-order.
In addition, Tantor Media will be releasing the audiobook version of my Victorian romance The Lost Letter later this month. To celebrate, The Lost Letter ebook is on sale for 99p/99¢ from June 4-10. Click here.
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If you would like to know more about Mimi and her work, please check out her links below:
Website: https://www.mimimatthews.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MimiMatthewsAuthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/
May 27, 2018
Historical Fiction Cover Winner May 2018
What draws you to a historical fiction book cover?
Each month I will be choosing my ‘Pam’s Pick’. Hopefully, you will be intrigued enough to look beyond the covers I feature and find your next favourite author. If a cover interests you just click on the link to learn more about the book.
My May winner is:
The Abandoned by Sharon Thompson
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I love a good crime thriller and this cover is perfect. The red cradle hints at drama and high emotion. This cover is intriguing yet dark and the story, set in 1950s Ireland, sounds like a cracking read. Congrats to Sharon (who I interviewed recently Sharon’s Interview).
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Peggy Bowden has not had an easy life. As a teenager, her mother was committed to an asylum and then a local priest forced her into an abusive marriage. But when her husband dies in an accident Peggy sees an opportunity to start again and trains as a midwife.
In 1950s Dublin it is not easy for a woman to make a living and Peggy sees a chance to start a business and soon a lucrative maternity home is up and running.
But when Peggy realizes that the lack of birth control is an issue for women, she uses their plight as a way to make more money. Very soon Peggy is on the wrong side of the law.
What makes a woman decide to walk down a dark path? Can Peggy ever get back on the straight and narrow? Or will she have to pay for her crimes?
Set against the backdrop of Ireland in the 1950’s The Abandoned tells the story of one woman’s fight for survival and her journey into the underbelly of a dangerous criminal world.
To find out more, please click here
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As ever, there was stiff competition for the top spot. Take a look at these wonderful covers.
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When Alexandra Tallis discovers that her witless sister has imprisoned their father’s nemesis, Theo Crombie, in their attic, she quickly frees him, fighting an unladylike impulse to keep him as her own special captive. Despite the brutal beating she receives from her father for her actions, Alexandra continues to yearn for the delicious Mr. Crombie even though she knows that nothing will ever come of her dreams.
Injured and shackled in a stranger’s attic, Theo unexpectedly discovers the woman of his dreams. But how can he pursue those dreams when her bizarre family’s complex relationships threaten the very foundation of his existence? Somehow Theo must find a way through this maze to claim his lady
To find out more, please click here
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Two stories, two heartbreaks: one past, one present…
Leaving her native France and arriving in North Wales as a postgraduate student of History and Folklore, Mel is cautiously optimistic that she can escape from her troubled past and begin a new and happier life.
She settles into her student accommodation and begins work on her thesis, concentrating particularly on one fascinating manuscript: a compelling and tragic tale of a cursed medieval princess.
Then she meets Ray – charming, down-to-earth and devastatingly handsome. Within days, Mel’s entire world has transformed from lonely and frustrated to loving and fulfilled. Despite her failure with previous relationships, she allows herself to hope that this time, at last, she can make it work.
But Mel’s dreams of happiness are under constant threat. She is hiding a dark and terrible secret, which Ray – or indeed anybody else – must never ever discover…
To find out more, please click here
And the not so small print: the judge’s decision is final (that would be me!) and is highly subjective.
Please note this is a cover competition only and does not constitute a review of any of the books featured. It’s up to you to explore. Happy Reading!
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Watch out every month for the next featured selection of great covers, and don’t forget, if you read a book and love it, post a review and make an author happy.
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May 18, 2018
A Conversation with Author Kevin McManus
This evening in the Library we have Kevin McManus, creator of the Ray Logue Mysteries, who has dropped in to say hello and to share some insights into his life as an author.
You are very welcome, Kevin, please introduce yourself:[image error]
I am a crime fiction writer from Leitrim in Western Ireland. I graduated from Maynooth university in 1998 with an MA in History and a Higher Diploma in Education. I have worked as a secondary school teacher since then.
In 2016 I was awarded the Leonard Trophy for my writing and in 2017, my third novel: Under the Red Winter Sky was voted the best Crime Novel of the year and 5th best Indie published novel of the year out of 2000 nominated books.
I support Aston Villa FC and I love Classic Rock music from the 70s. I played Bass guitar in Rock Bands for over 20 years.
Did you read much as a child? Are you an avid reader now? Do you prefer books in your own genre or are you happy to explore others?
I started out as a kid reading comics, I had my head permanently stuck in Marvel and Sci-Fi magazines. Later as a teenager I graduated to fantasy and horror books by Robert E. Howard, Harry Harrison, Michael Moorcock and James Herbert. From there on to literary and crime fiction.
Are you self-published or traditionally published?
I am traditionally published with Sharpe Book.
Which genre do you write in and why?
I write in the crime fiction genre, it wasn’t a conscious decision. My first novel The Whole of the Moon, started out as standard literary fiction but it morphed into crime fiction. I continued that trend for my next three books.
Who has been the biggest influence on your writing?
Jo Nebo, Dennis Lehane, Ken Bruen, Ian Rankin and George V. Higgins.
Has your country of origin/culture influenced your writing?
Absolutely, all of my novels are set in Western Ireland. The storylines are shaped by the culture, music, weather, landscape, dialect and particular sense of black humour.
What part of the writing process do you find most difficult? How do you overcome it?
Finding time to write. I am a full time school teacher. So I only really get time to write during school holidays. It can be difficult then just to turn on the tap and get yourself into writing mode.
Do you have a favourite time of day to write?
Evenings are best for me generally.
What is the best thing about being an author? And the flipside – what is the worst?
Writing is really enjoyable when you get in the zone and everything starts to flow but getting started is difficult. The first four chapters are a chore after that it sort of takes off. Editing and rewrites get tedious after a while. You can only rewrite so many times but you eventually have to just let it go.
Is social media an essential chore or something you enjoy? Which forum do you prefer?
I only realised after I published my first book that you end up spending more time on social media trying to market yourself than you do writing. But It’s a necessary evil.
If you weren’t an author, what would you be up to?
A Rock Star. LOL.
It’s the last day and the earth is facing oblivion – what book would you read?
The instructions of how to build a nuclear fall out shelter.
Please tell us what you are working on at the moment:
My latest published book is New Blood. The second Detective Ray Logue book and the follow up to Death Rains Down. They are both published by Sharpe Books. At present I am working on the very early stage of a third Ray Logue Book which I hope to publish late 2018 or early 2019.
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If you’d like to know more about Kevin and his work, please check out his links below:
Website: https://kevinmcmanusbooks.wordpress.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bassbreeze
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Books-by-Kevin-McManus-1075444599167606/
Amazon page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kevin-McManus/e/B01E4GF0GY/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
April 29, 2018
Historical Fiction Cover Winner April 2018
What draws you to a historical fiction book cover?
Each month I will be choosing my ‘Pam’s Pick’. Hopefully, you will be intrigued enough to look beyond the covers I feature and find your next favourite author. If a cover interests you just click on the link to learn more about the book.
My April winner is:
The Silent Woman by Terry Lynn Thomas
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This cover jumped out; the colours and images are intriguing and I love the pop of red. I would click on it if scrolling or pick it up in a bookshop, for sure. Who doesn’t love a good mystery and this looks like it could be a cracking story.
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Would you sell your secrets?
Catherine Carlisle is trapped in a loveless marriage and the threat of World War Two is looming. She sees no way out… that is until a trusted friend asks her to switch her husband’s papers in a desperate bid to confuse the Germans.
Soon Catherine finds herself caught up in a deadly mixture of espionage and murder. Someone is selling secrets to the other side, and the evidence seems to point right at her.
Can she clear her name before it’s too late?
To find out more, please click here
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As ever, there was stiff competition for the top spot. Take a look at these wonderful covers.
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In seventh-century England, a vicious attack sets in motion a war of attrition which will last for generations. Four kings, connected by blood and marriage, vie for the mantle of overlord. Three affect to rule with divine assistance. The fourth, whose cousin and sister have been mistreated and whose friend has been slaughtered, watches, and waits. He is a pagan, he is a Mercian, and his name is Penda.
By his side is a woman determined to escape her brutal past. She aids his struggle against his treacherous brother and their alliance founds a dynasty with the potential to end injustice and suppression, if only they can continue to stand together…
A story that spans generations, and travels from Sutton Hoo to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne and back to the buried treasure of Staffordshire, this is the first volume of the tales of the Iclingas, the family who ruled Mercia, fighting to avenge their kin and to keep their people free
To find out more, please click here
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Lady Isobella Rothbury believes herself to be on the shelf at 21 having suffered the humiliation of being cast aside in her coming out season. Now needing to help her cousin she seeks assistance from the Duke of Carlisle.
Richard Duke of Carlisle was intending to take a new mistress but is intrigued by Isobella’s approach and finds himself developing a growing interest in her. How he moved from considering a mistress to contemplating matrimony comes as some surprise.
Harry Duke of Exmouth was duped into marriage and plots to capture the virgin he let go. He will bed and breed from the un-named lady he boasts to his friends.
Overhearing the plan Richard realises that the lady is question is Isobella and he has no intention of allowing the lady he desires to end up as mistress to a scoundrel.
If he saves Isobella will he discover the passion she can bring to his bed? And will Isobella find out that to prevent the man you love from seeking a mistress, you should take on that role yourself?
To find out more, please click here
And the not so small print: the judge’s decision is final (that would be me!) and is highly subjective.
Please note this is a cover competition only and does not constitute a review of any of the books featured. It’s up to you to explore. Happy Reading!
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Watch out every month for the next featured selection of great covers, and don’t forget, if you read a book and love it, post a review and make an author happy.
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April 13, 2018
A Conversation with Author Sharon Thompson
[image error]This evening in the Library, I am delighted to welcome fellow Irish author, Sharon Thompson, who has dropped in to say hello and to share some insights into her life as an author.
Please tell us a little about yourself:
Sharon Thompson here, Irish author who is living in Donegal. I write anything I can but my debut crime novel just launched in January 2018 with leading digital publishers, Bloodhound Books UK. It was a #1 Best-seller on Kindle.
Did you read much as a child? Are you an avid reader now? Do you prefer books in your own genre or are you happy to explore others?
I loved to read but possibly wasn’t an avid reader. Enid Blyton and The Famous Five were firm favourites. The Secret Garden and Black Beauty stick in my memory. Recently someone mentioned the Thorn Birds and I read this in my teenage years and it brought me back to that book. English was my favourite subject at school.
Now, I love to read all sorts of books. I adore crime fiction writers like Louise Phillips, Andrea Mara and Liz Nugent, contemporary women’s fiction by Carmel Harrington, historical fiction from Hazel Gaynor and I’m throughly enjoying Prime Time by Jane Wenham-Jones. Short-stories by Kelly Creighton and yourself Pam Lecky are great to find. I love to write and read short stories. Oh memoir too! Lorna Sixsmith novel ‘Till the Cows Come Home’ is out soon and I was lucky to read an advance copy. It is a must-read in May. Alana Kirk is also fabulous in this genre. I love blogs and follow the likes of The S Mum/Maria Rushe and ‘Thoughts on a page’ by Tric Kearney. I like writers to make me smile as well as cry.
Are you self-published or traditionally published?
My debut novel The Abandoned launched in Jan 2018 with Bloodhound Books at #1 on Irish kindle crime fiction. It is doing well in sales and reviews and I’m delighted.
Which genre do you write in and why?
I skip around with genres. I write anything I can. However, my manuscripts are mostly historical crime fiction. But ….. I also write short stories, contemporary fiction and non-fiction pieces. I love to write and therefore write everything and anything to continue in this ‘writing life’.
Who has been the biggest influence on your writing?
This is a tough one. If I say that I feel John McGathern influenced me, it feels wrong, as he is such a great writer, who I never will even touch in terms of ability – but I love his work. Louise Phillips’ books were huge for me when I stumbled across them on a shelf when wanting a female, Irish crime-writer. Carmel Harrington, is like my writing fairy-godmother. We found each other on twitter and she suggested I write for fun and changed my life. Vanessa O’ Loughlin encouraged me to believe in myself. My writing group gave me confidence and are thriving as writers themselves and are leading lights in my writing life.
There’s also a magic that inspires me to write and I dedicate my books to this magic.
Has your country of origin/culture influenced your writing?
My novel is based in Dublin, Ireland. Most of my work is Irish based. Therefore, it is hugely influential on me. The Abandoned has a definite ‘Irish style’ and I’m told it has a rhythm or flow which is possibly unique to Irish writers? Others could let me know if this is accurate please.
What part of the writing process do you find most difficult? How do you overcome it?
Editing for me is the most difficult. I never know if and when a manuscript is ready to go to submissions or back to the publisher. I tend to over-think, over-write and worry about trivial details. I tried to overcome it this time by writing with ‘abandon’. I’m not sure I mastered it and am awaiting my edits on my book 2 from Bloodhound Books with trepidation.
Do you have a favourite time of day to write?
Anytime really suits me but possibly the morning is when I get the flow of words best. I am lucky to be a full-time writer with no children, an elderly, sleepy dog and an understanding husband. I write when I want to. Lucky me!
What is the best thing about being an author? And the flipside – what is the worst?
Being published is nice but there’s such fear about sales, reviews and future books. I think writers are their own worst critics. It is a brave thing to call yourself a writer.
The up-side though is that I can spend time coming up with ways of meeting others and sharing my work. The best thing is the writing process itself. I can get lost in my worlds and enjoy what I do everyday. Hearing from readers who loved the words I enjoyed putting down, is fabulous too. Most things are great while I’m at a keyboard. It’s the world outside that’s scary.
Is social media an essential chore or something you enjoy? Which forum do you prefer?
I adore social media. It takes up a large part of my time. Twitter and Facebook are my homes. Thankfully (touch wood) my experiences have been positive on both. I run a writing tweet chat and have found it excellent for net-working with writers and readers. #WritersWise is a fun forum anyone can dip into on Thursdays 9-10pm. http://www.writerswise1.wordpress.com
I find it a chore when I spend too much time on it and use it as a way of getting out of editing! writing.ie and my website http://www.sharontwriter.com have posts of mine, which are resources for writers and information on getting published.
I write for two online women’s magazines. #WomansWords on DonegalWoman.ie and #Indulgeinbooks on indulgem.ie, so a presence on social media is not a chore for me. I’ve started my own small digital magazine for subscribers to my website.
If you weren’t an author, what would you be up to?
I used to be primary school principal. If I wasn’t writing, I’d probably have to do a ‘proper’ job. I like to think I’d be an artist of some kind.
It’s the last day and the earth is facing oblivion – what book would you read?
I probably would be feverishly reading the Bible!
Please tell us about your latest published work.
[image error]Thanks Pam for your support and sharing my novel ‘The Abandoned’.
What makes a woman decide to walk down a dark path? Can Peggy ever get back on the straight and narrow? Or will she have to pay for her crimes? Set against the backdrop of Ireland in the 1950’s The Abandoned tells the story of one woman’s fight for survival and her journey into the underbelly of a dangerous criminal world.
Bloodhound Books have signed me for a further two novels and my next one will hopefully be out later this year.
If you’d like to know more about Sharon and her work,
please check out her links below:
April 7, 2018
The Foundling Hospital
UCD LIBRARY CULTURAL HERITAGE COLLECTIONS
This blog post is about a grim institution of 18th century Dublin and contains details that some readers may find upsetting.
The many commuters who use the Luas St. James’s stop everyday are almost certainly aware that they are very near to the site of the proposed new National Children’s Hospital. It is unlikely though, that they know their proximity to the site of a very different ‘hospital’ for children;.one of Dublin’s most appalling asylums which lasted from early in the eighteenth century to the opening decades of the 19th.
An artists impression of the new National Children’s Hospital
A brief history of The Ancient Foundling Hospital (UCD Special Collections 35.F.2/11) by William Dudley Wodsworth, is more than long enough to outline the full horror of the story despite the restraint of the author, a Victorian era civil servant.
A foundling is an infant that…
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