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Showing posts from November, 2012

Revisiting the Memphis Belle, James Stewart and World War Two.

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Crew of the "Memphis Belle" Who can recall Memphis Belle , the film? I certainly can and I loved it. However, whilst it was fantastic it was not an accurate representation of the actual B-17 Memphis Belle  and her crew. The film portrays the crew as the first to complete the target of 25 missions or tours as they were known, before they can return home. The truth is that just prior to the Memphis Belle achieving this coveted feat, the crew of Hell's Angels  made it first, completing their tour on the 13th May 1943. The Memphis Belle crew completed their tour on the 19th May 1943. However, this particular Fortress was also famous for being the first B-17 to keep an entire crew alive. Naturally much of the credit must go to the skill and team work of the pilots and crew but it does make you wonder about those elusive little things such as luck and guardian angels.  Crew of "Hell's Angels" Whilst Hells Angels  went on to do further tours, the

Writers Block and My Chance To Get You Interested :Guest Post by Author Kerry Dwyer

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Suzy invited me to her lovely blog here and told me that I could write about whatever I wanted. After all I’m a writer aren't I?  That is what writers do, don’t they? They write. What a fantastic opportunity for me to show you all what I can do. You will be so impressed after reading the sort of thing that I am able of conjuring up just by sitting and tapping at my keyboard that you will run out in droves to buy my book. I can hear you all shouting it out in the streets now – “Hey did you read that brilliant, excellent, witty, intelligent post by Kerry Dwyer on Suzy’s blog?  Boy does she have a way with words!” Yep. Well so far nothing brilliant has sprung to mind. I Know you have all read my other author interviews (if you haven't then go and read them now) where I say that 'Ramblings in Ireland' virtually wrote itself. I just started thinking about it and let my mind wander and that did it. So why can't I do it now? Where is Freud when I need him?

Review of "Peace and Disquiet" by Helen Laycock

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                                                               Synopsis: A collection of twelve slightly disturbing tales which encompass mortality, mentality, brutality…and reality. Sleep tight… Review: Each story is unique and well crafted. Such dark tales indeed, aimed at adults which is a stark contrast to the Author's usual genre of children's books, which serves to illustrate her versatility when it comes to writing.  The first tale, "Ante Mortem," is intriguing, crafted with figurative, poetic language which flows beautifully. This is the work of an accomplished writer, one with true knowledge of the craft and it was a pleasure to read. "Til Death Do Us Part," is a poignant, emotive short story with a very sad twist in the tale. I almost felt as if the words themselves were drawing me in and binding me to each and every syllable.  All in all, Helen Laycock has a great collection of short stories that are well written and truly enjoyabl

Review of "Under Darkening Skies" by Sara Lee Paterson

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Synopsis: The lands of Drum are split into two realms, Drumdilon, a land rich in resources; and Drumbard, a dark dismal land fuelled by fear and hidden danger. Between these, a dense forest that few would dare cross! As the King of Drumdilon celebrates the birth of his child, his army stands ready. Marauders from Drumbard are plundering the furthest reaches of his realm, killing and robbing all in their wake; but before loosing the dogs of war, he must send a lone warrior through the forest to discover more about the people on the other side. Jonas, a swordsman from the north, has been chosen for this task. Raised since childhood by the Sage, Septimus, his ancient knowledge and skills hold him in good stead. Unexpectedly, he finds the peoples of Drumbard are no different to his own but with one exception. Struggling for survival against an army of beasts from the mountains, Jonas finds out at first hand how strong and unforgiving they are when held in captivity. While on hi

NaNoWriMo -Is It Worth It?

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National novel writing month is here. Day 6. You've guessed it -I'm doing it. And it's sheer madness but there's fun along the way. On average, to reach the end goal of 50000 words in one month, you need to write about 1666 words per day. Am I doing that? No, not every day. Already I find that I'm behind but I have to ask the question, is that such a bad thing? It seems to me that the way to win NaNo is simply to write. Let sparks fly from the nib of the pen as words are inscribed onto paper (alternatively work through the pain of aching wrists and fingers as you speed type).  Generally the best approach is to have prepared in advance. By which I mean you ought to have your novel planned out so that you can write freely. Planning time reduces writing time. So, I thought I was on track -my novel was planned out, research done -I write historical fiction, just so you know -and yet here on day 6 I'm floundering. Truth is I was floundering back on day 3. I ne