John Hennessy's Blog, page 11
October 7, 2013
Currently Reading: A Bright Particular Star by Elizabeth Hanbury
Currently Reading: A Bright Particular Star by Elizabeth Hanbury
Well. It's nice to get away from the horrors, blood and guts of the final tweaks on 'Dark Winter', to read something a lot more lighter. Only starting reading it today, but it's got a cool heroine and the story moves at quite a pace.
That's not to say that pace equals a dry narrative. No. Elizabeth Hanbury describes the world of Sophie and Theo extremely well, and whilst it might seem a light read to some, it really isn't, and the more I get into it, it has the makings of a fantastic story here.
A full review when I've sped through this. I wouldn't normally say something like that, but this is a story that you just want to read, and keep reading. It's wonderfully crafted, historically accurate, with an engaging protagonist.
Awesome so far.
Well. It's nice to get away from the horrors, blood and guts of the final tweaks on 'Dark Winter', to read something a lot more lighter. Only starting reading it today, but it's got a cool heroine and the story moves at quite a pace.
That's not to say that pace equals a dry narrative. No. Elizabeth Hanbury describes the world of Sophie and Theo extremely well, and whilst it might seem a light read to some, it really isn't, and the more I get into it, it has the makings of a fantastic story here.
A full review when I've sped through this. I wouldn't normally say something like that, but this is a story that you just want to read, and keep reading. It's wonderfully crafted, historically accurate, with an engaging protagonist.
Awesome so far.
September 30, 2013
Currently reading: The World According to Bob, by James Bowen
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18...
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed 'A StreetCat Named Bob', it's really no surprise that this book follows in the same vein. Bob is a totally cool cat, and truly, the book's strapline doesn't lie - the duo do have many more adventures and it is a fun, if scary read, sometimes.
Fun - because anyone who has a cat will know of their little 'ways' in the manner only an owner knows.
Scary - because some of the situations they find themselves in are indeed 'what the hell?' moments and you can't put the book down because you want to know what happens next.
Anyway, it's a top read so far. I understand there are seven boos in the series, so whilst some may feel it is more of the same, I honestly feel like it's a very fresh read. It leaves you with a nice feeling inside. How mant books can you say have done that for you?
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed 'A StreetCat Named Bob', it's really no surprise that this book follows in the same vein. Bob is a totally cool cat, and truly, the book's strapline doesn't lie - the duo do have many more adventures and it is a fun, if scary read, sometimes.
Fun - because anyone who has a cat will know of their little 'ways' in the manner only an owner knows.
Scary - because some of the situations they find themselves in are indeed 'what the hell?' moments and you can't put the book down because you want to know what happens next.
Anyway, it's a top read so far. I understand there are seven boos in the series, so whilst some may feel it is more of the same, I honestly feel like it's a very fresh read. It leaves you with a nice feeling inside. How mant books can you say have done that for you?
September 25, 2013
Release Date for 'Dark Winter'
Okay. So the draft has been completed. And then re-drafted. Then re-drafted several times more. The script has been through editorial, some friends have had snippets of the script, and well, friends, we are all but there.
So I have a date for it's release - 9th October on Kindle (and other devices) and printed version to be available soon after that.
I prefer the 'hard copy' version of books but can see some merit in e-books. Whichever one you happen to be, I hope you'll try this book and see something different in it.
It's my first 'official' novel, so I don't know how it will be received. Sometimes, you just have to go for it and
see what happens.
So I have a date for it's release - 9th October on Kindle (and other devices) and printed version to be available soon after that.
I prefer the 'hard copy' version of books but can see some merit in e-books. Whichever one you happen to be, I hope you'll try this book and see something different in it.
It's my first 'official' novel, so I don't know how it will be received. Sometimes, you just have to go for it and
see what happens.
July 7, 2013
Go with your gut feelings if you want to get published
At least, that's what I would do.
I came across this piece and wondered what you thought about it:-
"Bear in mind that there is a difference between making a manuscript good, and making it a commercial/publishable proposition. If the consultant talks about changes required to fit the genre, and you ignore those suggestions because you can't see there's anything wrong with what you've written, then it's probably not going to be publishable however well written it may be. "
I accept that.
But I think you have to go with your gut feeling too. That does not mean slavishly defending a concept that will not work.
It means that your book has to straddle two horses (yes, it's THAT difficult) !
My first book was martial arts related, very niche. I had no idea how it would do. Editorial suggested changes, and about 70% of their recommendations were implemented.
I wish I had been more stronger. My concepts were good. I didn't have to cower to fit the market, in my head.
But you tend to listen to editorial evaluations blindly, at least I did, for this text.
But you learn also, and I learned that
editorial critique is pivotal to your book being the best it can be.
That in itself does not guarantee monetary success, but write with passion, and do your homework, and I believe you will be amongst the best sellers.
Wishing all writers, published and soon-to-be, well!
I came across this piece and wondered what you thought about it:-
"Bear in mind that there is a difference between making a manuscript good, and making it a commercial/publishable proposition. If the consultant talks about changes required to fit the genre, and you ignore those suggestions because you can't see there's anything wrong with what you've written, then it's probably not going to be publishable however well written it may be. "
I accept that.
But I think you have to go with your gut feeling too. That does not mean slavishly defending a concept that will not work.
It means that your book has to straddle two horses (yes, it's THAT difficult) !
My first book was martial arts related, very niche. I had no idea how it would do. Editorial suggested changes, and about 70% of their recommendations were implemented.
I wish I had been more stronger. My concepts were good. I didn't have to cower to fit the market, in my head.
But you tend to listen to editorial evaluations blindly, at least I did, for this text.
But you learn also, and I learned that
editorial critique is pivotal to your book being the best it can be.
That in itself does not guarantee monetary success, but write with passion, and do your homework, and I believe you will be amongst the best sellers.
Wishing all writers, published and soon-to-be, well!
June 21, 2013
Just Ordered: "Being Emily" by Rachel Gold
Okay, so I can't wait for this:-
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12...
Yes, there is a Kindle version but I think 'Kindle-less' people should be able to read it too, so I'm going for the paperback version.
Too many books in the transgender arena focus on sexualising the story, or go for comedy - ask yourself have you ever really seen a film about this subject that truly treated it with the sensitivity it deserves?
I've been stuck in the horror / YA genre for a while now, and would love to read something different.
I'm sure it is going to be great.
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12...
Yes, there is a Kindle version but I think 'Kindle-less' people should be able to read it too, so I'm going for the paperback version.
Too many books in the transgender arena focus on sexualising the story, or go for comedy - ask yourself have you ever really seen a film about this subject that truly treated it with the sensitivity it deserves?
I've been stuck in the horror / YA genre for a while now, and would love to read something different.
I'm sure it is going to be great.
June 4, 2013
New Review: The Essence of Martial Arts
Okay, so I know my novel is at editorial now, but it is still great to get reviews on a book that was published 18 months ago:-
http://www.amazon.co.uk/product-revie...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/product-revie...
April 15, 2013
Just finished reading: Girl of Nightmares by Kendare Blake
Okay. Need to rest after reading this one. I blasted through the last 120 pages or so. I do still think you read it more carefully when it is the printed book rather than Kindle, so for authors I really love, I will get the printed book. I am still not sold on the whole Kindle thing!
Wow. A terrific read that balances the first book nicely. It was a very satisfying book, and I never expected it to be as godo as the first. If you take it as one whole volume, you have one hell of a story there.
Apart from Kendare's amazing way with words and descriptions, what''s really freaky is that there is a home, just like on the cover of Anna Dressed in Blood, close to my old junior school. I haven't been up there in years, but now I am tempted, just to see if Anna's there. God, I hope not.
I need to relax and recover from this one, then do a more detailed review. Good on you Kendare Blake. You've done it again.
Wow. A terrific read that balances the first book nicely. It was a very satisfying book, and I never expected it to be as godo as the first. If you take it as one whole volume, you have one hell of a story there.
Apart from Kendare's amazing way with words and descriptions, what''s really freaky is that there is a home, just like on the cover of Anna Dressed in Blood, close to my old junior school. I haven't been up there in years, but now I am tempted, just to see if Anna's there. God, I hope not.
I need to relax and recover from this one, then do a more detailed review. Good on you Kendare Blake. You've done it again.
April 13, 2013
Currently Reading: "Girl of Nightmares" (Anna, 2) by Kendare Blake
image: 
Girl of Nightmares
After I had read the first 'Anna' book, 'Anna Dressed in Blood', I was excited and at the same time, a bit scared of the follow up, 'Girl of Nightmares', because the standard set in Anna, 1, was so high.
How could it possibly match it?
The first book smashed you over the head from page 1, and kept bludgeoning you throughout.
The second book, so far, revolves around Cas's near infatuated state regarding Anna. This 'love story' was never going to be the conventional 'boy meets girl and falls in love' story, and I remember, as a teenage boy, what it was like to be crazy in love (not real, but it felt real enough) with a girl (or girls) who did not reciprocate.
So far, it's not for certain that Anna wants to show affection for Cas, even if she wants to.
After all, she has bigger problems, she is in Hell, whether she deserves to be or not, is another matter.
Some reviews I have seen (without spoilers) seem to wish that Cas should be ghost hunting more, rather than fawning over how to save Anna (assuming she can be saved).
I think this book is so far, a very solid follow up. It is not set at the blistering pace of the first book, which may disappoint some, but if you really like Cas and the other characters (I reserve judgement only on Morfran, so far!) you should pursue with the story. I'm basically at the half-way point in the story, and still enjoying it.
That says a lot more about Kendare Blake's writing style, which veers from easy to eat up to detailed so strongly, you are pulled right in. I am a huge fan of this author, and almost certainly going to read her Anti Goddess series and other stories.
So. This is not 'Anna Dressed in Blood'. It's different. And in my view, that is no bad thing. My only advice is to read the first book, first, then enjoy both. I'll be fascinated to see how it all works out.
Girl of Nightmares
After I had read the first 'Anna' book, 'Anna Dressed in Blood', I was excited and at the same time, a bit scared of the follow up, 'Girl of Nightmares', because the standard set in Anna, 1, was so high.
How could it possibly match it?
The first book smashed you over the head from page 1, and kept bludgeoning you throughout.
The second book, so far, revolves around Cas's near infatuated state regarding Anna. This 'love story' was never going to be the conventional 'boy meets girl and falls in love' story, and I remember, as a teenage boy, what it was like to be crazy in love (not real, but it felt real enough) with a girl (or girls) who did not reciprocate.
So far, it's not for certain that Anna wants to show affection for Cas, even if she wants to.
After all, she has bigger problems, she is in Hell, whether she deserves to be or not, is another matter.
Some reviews I have seen (without spoilers) seem to wish that Cas should be ghost hunting more, rather than fawning over how to save Anna (assuming she can be saved).
I think this book is so far, a very solid follow up. It is not set at the blistering pace of the first book, which may disappoint some, but if you really like Cas and the other characters (I reserve judgement only on Morfran, so far!) you should pursue with the story. I'm basically at the half-way point in the story, and still enjoying it.
That says a lot more about Kendare Blake's writing style, which veers from easy to eat up to detailed so strongly, you are pulled right in. I am a huge fan of this author, and almost certainly going to read her Anti Goddess series and other stories.
So. This is not 'Anna Dressed in Blood'. It's different. And in my view, that is no bad thing. My only advice is to read the first book, first, then enjoy both. I'll be fascinated to see how it all works out.
April 10, 2013
The day you complete the draft of your novel is so hard won
You may have been there, and know what I'm talking about. That moment when you finally complete the draft of your novel. Something that has consumed you longer than you recall.
The sacrifices you made to make it happen. The long nights, the early mornings, the afternoons where you wanted to rest, but plots, story lines, characters, and yes - sequels, popped into your head.
It happens most for me when I'm in bed, or having a well earned bath. You know - moments when you are supposed to be doing absolutely nothing.
But you can't leave it there, no. You have to do something about it. So the slumber ends, or the bath plug is pulled.
You go back to the novel and work on it some more.
I arrive at an expanse now - one that says 'hey, you got your life back', but I know this is only a temporary thing, a ceasefire between writer and its creation.
Is there a point to all this? Well, maybe. For me, for many of you, perhaps, you've reached a point where you say 'Yes, I'm done, I'm happy' (for now).
Of course, you feel happy, feel proud. My latest 'work' clocked in at over 85000 words, and the previous one at 101,000. I've never worked on anything so hard in my life.
With my first book, the semi-autobiographical 'Essence of Martial Arts', I learned so much about the process that with all the plethora of errors made, I resolved to make future books - should they ever be published - far better than that one.
Isn't that the aim of writers, to better their previous works? Absolutely, we have to be committed to that.
Should money come into it? I say no, because you have to write because you enjoy writing, telling stories, enlisting people's opinions on your creation.
Money corrupts. Would I like to be living more comfortably? Of course. But as I ploughed through my book, things were not so bad, because I could slip into that world, any time I liked.
It is far better a feeling than any drug I could take (not interested in that, never was, never will be!) or to indulge in some other past-time that leaves you, well, feeling cold, like a lover with you in the night, but departed by morning.
So yes, I feel a bit lost since completing the draft, but there are other things to do, pay attention to, and work on. My family may even have me back for a while. When they tire of that (And they will) they will want me to go back to my writing.
The draft has been completed, a small battle won. War is about to break out though - with myself (am I happy, truly happy with what I've done), with agents (they can slam a text out of existence because it doesn't meet a-b-c criteria) and publishers (remember how Harry Potter was thought of as 'a book about a boarding school...who would be interested in that?' Thankfully JK Rowling pressed on!
Whatever your thoughts when you complete your first draft, I wish you happy writing.
The sacrifices you made to make it happen. The long nights, the early mornings, the afternoons where you wanted to rest, but plots, story lines, characters, and yes - sequels, popped into your head.
It happens most for me when I'm in bed, or having a well earned bath. You know - moments when you are supposed to be doing absolutely nothing.
But you can't leave it there, no. You have to do something about it. So the slumber ends, or the bath plug is pulled.
You go back to the novel and work on it some more.
I arrive at an expanse now - one that says 'hey, you got your life back', but I know this is only a temporary thing, a ceasefire between writer and its creation.
Is there a point to all this? Well, maybe. For me, for many of you, perhaps, you've reached a point where you say 'Yes, I'm done, I'm happy' (for now).
Of course, you feel happy, feel proud. My latest 'work' clocked in at over 85000 words, and the previous one at 101,000. I've never worked on anything so hard in my life.
With my first book, the semi-autobiographical 'Essence of Martial Arts', I learned so much about the process that with all the plethora of errors made, I resolved to make future books - should they ever be published - far better than that one.
Isn't that the aim of writers, to better their previous works? Absolutely, we have to be committed to that.
Should money come into it? I say no, because you have to write because you enjoy writing, telling stories, enlisting people's opinions on your creation.
Money corrupts. Would I like to be living more comfortably? Of course. But as I ploughed through my book, things were not so bad, because I could slip into that world, any time I liked.
It is far better a feeling than any drug I could take (not interested in that, never was, never will be!) or to indulge in some other past-time that leaves you, well, feeling cold, like a lover with you in the night, but departed by morning.
So yes, I feel a bit lost since completing the draft, but there are other things to do, pay attention to, and work on. My family may even have me back for a while. When they tire of that (And they will) they will want me to go back to my writing.
The draft has been completed, a small battle won. War is about to break out though - with myself (am I happy, truly happy with what I've done), with agents (they can slam a text out of existence because it doesn't meet a-b-c criteria) and publishers (remember how Harry Potter was thought of as 'a book about a boarding school...who would be interested in that?' Thankfully JK Rowling pressed on!
Whatever your thoughts when you complete your first draft, I wish you happy writing.
February 15, 2013
Review: The Selection by Keira Cass
Good, but lacking **something**.
Okay, so the premise of The Selection is very good. The cover is brilliantly enticing, and yet, within the first few pages, the dystopian world is 'ropey', to say the least.
It may sound harsh, but calling your principal character 'America' and one of the others, 'Aspen', seems bizarre to me.
The author's name is Keira, and that's a beautiful name, befitting a princess. So would it have been a bad idea to maybe call America, Keira?
This is a small gripe.
The story, such as it is, moves along reasonably well, and in that sense, I think Keira Cass writes in a quite engaging manner.
I like the Cinderella premise, i.e. poor, but beautiful and refined girl makes good - but the story ends with sequel-itis in mind, so you wonder what is the point of the book, in and of itself...because it is not the complete story.
Prince Maxon seems at first a bit wooden and stuffy, but I suppose even if you are heir to the throne of Illea and you have 35 girls fawning after you...you would be.
He develops better than any other character, for me, and then, just a few chapters before the end, he puts his crown firmly back on his head and lashes out at America...I lost all the likeability that had been built up for him.
The story could easily be four stars, but it could be two stars as well.
I give it three because it does have potential, but has a lot of filler chapters where the intention must have been to spread it out to two or three books, which is a shame. If it is one story, then tell it like one, because stretching it out affects what could have been a truly great read.
As it is, it is just another in a long line of YA dystopian novels. There's no vampires, trolls, zombies...just the cast system of Illea and thirty five girls that make up The Selection.
The love triangle seems...very strange, because to have one, America would have to love Aspen and Maxon, and for the Prince to be in love with America.
It is not clear how America or Maxon really feel. Even Aspen seems to have a bit of the caveman about him. Maybe that is the design of the main characters.
I kind of feel that the dystopian world will be explored more in The Elite. I just don't know if I can stretch to that one to find out.
Nonetheless, a good try from Keira Cass.
Okay, so the premise of The Selection is very good. The cover is brilliantly enticing, and yet, within the first few pages, the dystopian world is 'ropey', to say the least.
It may sound harsh, but calling your principal character 'America' and one of the others, 'Aspen', seems bizarre to me.
The author's name is Keira, and that's a beautiful name, befitting a princess. So would it have been a bad idea to maybe call America, Keira?
This is a small gripe.
The story, such as it is, moves along reasonably well, and in that sense, I think Keira Cass writes in a quite engaging manner.
I like the Cinderella premise, i.e. poor, but beautiful and refined girl makes good - but the story ends with sequel-itis in mind, so you wonder what is the point of the book, in and of itself...because it is not the complete story.
Prince Maxon seems at first a bit wooden and stuffy, but I suppose even if you are heir to the throne of Illea and you have 35 girls fawning after you...you would be.
He develops better than any other character, for me, and then, just a few chapters before the end, he puts his crown firmly back on his head and lashes out at America...I lost all the likeability that had been built up for him.
The story could easily be four stars, but it could be two stars as well.
I give it three because it does have potential, but has a lot of filler chapters where the intention must have been to spread it out to two or three books, which is a shame. If it is one story, then tell it like one, because stretching it out affects what could have been a truly great read.
As it is, it is just another in a long line of YA dystopian novels. There's no vampires, trolls, zombies...just the cast system of Illea and thirty five girls that make up The Selection.
The love triangle seems...very strange, because to have one, America would have to love Aspen and Maxon, and for the Prince to be in love with America.
It is not clear how America or Maxon really feel. Even Aspen seems to have a bit of the caveman about him. Maybe that is the design of the main characters.
I kind of feel that the dystopian world will be explored more in The Elite. I just don't know if I can stretch to that one to find out.
Nonetheless, a good try from Keira Cass.
