End of January 2026

Well, here we are at the end of the 1st month of the year. Tomorrow is Australia Day – can be known as Invasion Day and we all know why.

The weather has been a little cooler, but we are heading toward more heat by the end of the week. At least we’re not Newman (Pilbara) – last week anywhere from high 40s to 50s and now they’re on alert for a storm – tail end of Cyclone Luana.

I haven’t lived through a cyclone and I’m not sure I want to. That was the only reason I never moved to Queensland. And I absolutely loved Western Australia when I visited. So, Perth won over Brisbane or the Gold Coast.

We haven’t been ghost hunting for a while, but we might have another go when Stu comes down next. This weekend was taken up with other stuff. I do have to say, I finally have a footstool for under my desk – it’s a cheap one, but it’s good enough for me.

Updates

I do have a new update completely unrelated to any of the works I currently have going. I will be entering a short story competition – and I’ve actually paid money to do so. Stay tuned for sometime after 30 September this year.

Clans in Conflict

For those who don’t know much about it, this is a series about a clan that is lost travelling through dimensions due to a scientific experiment gone horribly wrong and about the city-state Part 2 concludes in.

Dark Dimensions Part 1 and 2 is recounting that journey to Torkandisch. Dark Reign is the next book in the series and covers the next 12 months in the city-state.

The Dark Road is back with the beta readers. This story takes place about 16 years later. Lots in Torkandish has changed and there is lots of intrigue and heartache throughout this book. Some funny instances, too.

But Dark Beginnings will take us back to where it all started in Tordun, covering Vlad’s rise to power and, perhaps, that fateful experiment, along with the first 15 years of dimension-hopping. Dark Beginnings is still on the backburner. I have started this and I will return to it.

So, that’s what’s in store for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in this world.

There are also going to be other stories, along with a special edition of Dark Dimensions where the two parts are combined. That will be in the future.

Speaking of other stories, Deadly Convergence is centred on Torkandisch 5 years before the Clan lands in the city-state and follows a crime that twists into something else. This is available only on Kindle and on Kindle Unlimited.

The Ryan Locke story has gone through two more edits and I’ll be having a read of it and possibly applying the Emotion Thesaurus to it in a week or two. Then it’ll go for editing, cover art and publishing. I’m currently using the read aloud function in Word (can’t stand my own voice) and picking up some updates. I may send it to beta readers as well. I have to admit, I got distracted this week by someone else’s work, so that’s on the list for this week to complete.

Talking about Torkandisch, a thought came to me this morning in the early hours. I haven’t done a lot with Alex Travis and his mother Katarina. I feel that their history should be told, but I think that’s going to be in a book between Dark Reign and The Dark Road. So, stay tuned for that.

Consequences

This series follows the rise of Marek from a mastermind thief to the saviour of a nation.

Heart of Deception is now available through Amazon and Draft2Digital. And an update on that is that the 10 copies ordered came through early, so there will be a copy donated to Midland Library, as well.

Legacy of Risks will follow in the next few months, once cover art is finalised for it. The reason why it will take a few months is because I’m applying The Emotion Thesaurus options to it.

Dangerous Heart will then go to beta readers.

Watch this space.

There will be some short stories come out and, possibly, a fourth book that covers events much later after Dangerous Heart. Definitely a “watch this space” moment.

Other Universes

Strefinobhan

With Heart of Deception released and my work on the Otherworldly Emergence series coming to a conclusion, I should be able to get back into editing the first book of this series and sending it to beta readers. I am still unable to say when this will happen, but hopefully sooner rather than later.

Paranormal

Again, this will have to wait until work on the Otherworldly Emergence series is completed. One of my paranormal pieces, however, is in the Emergence series, so stay tuned for updates there.

Speaking of which, you can find the Otherworldly Emergence information at the website below.

Bushland Castle Productions

I have finished editing one novella, Not your Normal Heroes. I am still editing the other and will have that editing finished by the end of the week.

I have received the feedback for both of my stories and I may finally have a name for the second story. At the moment I’m calling it either daemon hunter or ghost hunter, but that’s not the actual title. Still working on the title itself.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

BCP is planning its next series, which will build on the Otherworldly Emergence but this time will be Otherworldly Origins. Stay tuned for further information regarding that (along with a link).

While you’re on the website, is information about their nonfiction series Australia: Living in the 70s. If you have a life story about living in the 70s in Australia, check the website for more details on that series. I know if I were to submit, it would all be about CountDown, Sandman vans and learning about Unionism through school (and other things, of course).

Also check out their podcast – Finding Elara. Learn about Mindfulness from other creatives – not just writers, but other creative persons, as well as worldbuilding and other information. BCP are about to start on their 3rd season of the podcast, so stay tuned for updates on that.

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

Not only that, but Finding Elara has just made it onto YouTube. There is a Halloween special up that features one of my short ghost stories being read out live. So, just search for Finding Elara and have a listen. I’m the one in the blue hat.

Grow Write

Once every fortnight, Grow Write meets at the Midland Library in Midland, Perth, Western Australia. We are very excited to announce that our very first anthology is being printed and we hope to have it in our hands very soon. Watch this space!

Okay, the anthology has arrived in Perth, so it should be with us on Thursday next week. Again, watch this space!

We hope to put one out this year, but my time is somewhat more limited than last year and so is that of the publisher, so it remains to be seen whether this will be able to be achieved.

Beta readers

Okay, I’m tackling this because I will admit – I’m not all that knowledgeable about beta readers. What I do know is that they’re few and far between.

What I do know is that beta readers are a main stay of both the writing and the publishing processes. They provide valuable feedback before the manuscript goes to the editor ensuring that what does get sent to the editor is the best the author can produce.

A great beta reader will point out plot holes, character inconsistencies, plot inconsistencies, holes in settings and action and suggest where areas can be improved. They can provide valuable insights on what a reader will be able to glean from a manuscript and whether readers will be lost in things like subplots, fractured plots and, the bane of all authors – jargon and language.

That doesn’t mean to say that an author should accept everything a beta reader points out. What it can mean is whether the author is able to correctly project their vision and thoughts in such a way that a reader will be immersed in the world created by the story and trail the characters through their trials and tribulations right up until the conclusion of the tale.

Like reviewers and those who provide feedback, beta readers should be cherished as partners in the creation of a work of art that the audience will fall in love with and be there for any other works the author produces.

So if you have beta readers (lucky ducks if you do), then take their advice. Pull it apart and examine it objectively.

Again, don’t take negative feedback from beta readers as useless. Think of negative feedback as an opportunity to really make your writing sing. The more feedback you get and inspect without any emotions complicating your reaction, the better your manuscript will end up being.

Because that’s what you’ve put those beta readers to do – critically look at your manuscript in a semi-raw form. (I say that because most authors will do a number of edits before sending it to beta readers.) They are only interested in making that manuscript the best it can be.

Mid-January 2026

Well, the weather cooled off but in a couple of days apparently we’re heading back into an oven. Thank goodness for air-conditioning!

I don’t have a lot of news. Life goes on as it does.

I will say here, though, I don’t intend to discuss politics, sports or religion here (unless I’ve got religion in my books). My mother always had a rule. At the dining table during meals those topics were banned. I think that’s a great idea. We had lively conversations, but no real fights over meals. One of the memories that sticks out is my sister and I swapping vegies and fruit – I hate pears and she wasn’t fond of peaches, so we’d swap. I still hate parsnips, but she loved them, so she got mine. I was amazed, though, to learn in later years that my father hated pumpkin. So, when I had him over for a roast dinner in my first place, I didn’t cook him pumpkin. He’d gotten so used it, he asked for it. So, there’s a lesson to parents – eat what is good for your kids whether you like it or not. ‘Cause I love pumpkin. Still hate parsnips and pears, though!

Clans in Conflict

Dark Dimensions Part 1 and 2 is recounting that journey to Torkandisch. Dark Reign is the next book in the series and covers the next 12 months in the city-state.

So, that’s what’s in store for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in this world.

There are also going to be other stories, along with a special edition of Dark Dimensions where the two parts are combined. That will be in the future.

Consequences

This series follows the rise of Marek from a mastermind thief to the saviour of a nation.

Legacy of Risks will follow in the next few months, once cover art is finalised for it. The reason why it will take a few months is because I’m applying The Emotion Thesaurus options to it.

Dangerous Heart will then go to beta readers.

Watch this space.

There will be some short stories come out and, possibly, a fourth book that covers events much later after Dangerous Heart. Definitely a “watch this space” moment.

Other Universes

Strefinobhan

Paranormal

Again, this will have to wait until work on the Otherworldly Emergence series is completed. One of my paranormal pieces, however, is in the Emergence series, so stay tuned for updates there.

Speaking of which, you can find the Otherworldly Emergence information at the website below.

Bushland Castle Productions

I have finished editing one novella, Not your Normal Heroes. I am still editing the other and will have that editing finished by the end of the week.

Both stories have gone through beta readers and I am awaiting the feedback from one. Once that comes in, I’ll study the feedback and make what changes I can, then it will go to copy editing.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

BCP is planning its next series, which will build on the Otherworldly Emergence but this time will be Otherworldly Origins. Stay tuned for further information regarding that (along with a link).

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

Grow Write

We hope to put one out this year, but my time is somewhat more limited than last year and so is that of the publisher, so it remains to be seen whether this will be able to be achieved.

Editing

I know this is probably a dead donkey to some, but I feel it is something that should be revisited occasionally.

I have been doing so much editing that I’ve nearly forgotten what it’s like to actually write raw prose (no I haven’t. Just kidding).

I do wish to remind everyone that editing is an important part of our development as a writer and author. It helps us grow our writing skills, gives us deeper understanding of our stories and helps us provide a comprehensive experience for our readers and audience.

I know everyone says get across all the platforms, but sometimes that can get in the way of actual writing. I had a friend lately who got caught up in the excitement of posting daily on social media and spiralled away from writing. I advised that engaging with an audience and followers, although important in its own way, is secondary to writing. (I say this from a position of someone who has totally disregarded one of their social media platforms because it’s got limited space to write something.)

Anyway, back to editing. There are various online tools and programs and although I don’t use them, if you do, then I encourage you to do so. Whatever works for you. There are also various style manuals, such as the Australian Government Style Manual, the Australian Style Guide and the Chicago Style Manual.

These manuals and guides are handy for the style your country uses for written works. Which is why all of my books has a disclaimer advising that I use the Australian Government Style Manual. I encourage you to investigate the appropriate manual or guide for your country.

Something to remember when editing is that there are rules and there are conventions. When people say there are no rules in writing, they are talking about these conventions. Because some of the conventions we still use date from the 1700s. Those include not starting a sentence with “and” and not finishing it with words like “with”. These are conventions and not rules.

The main rules every writer should follow are those that govern grammar and punctuation – including spelling. Spelling in the English language, as we all know it, can be problematic, but grammar and punctuation rules can be even more confusing. Which is where the style manuals and guides come in handy. Because they’re there to help us improve our creations for others to enjoy.

Now, even though I do my own editing, I still run my work through beta readers, an editor and, when I can, a proofreader. It would be lovely to have a team, but sometimes people who are willing to beta read and proofread for an autographed copy of the printed manuscript are few and far between. They are well worth it, however, because a good beta reader will point out plot holes, character inconsistences and general issues. So, they should be part of your editing process.

While most editors today go by a word count, mine charges by the hour. This means that the more concise the manuscript that goes to her, the better for me. She still picks up lots of issues, though, and she also keeps telling me she’s going to take my protagonists off me. One day she won’t say that, I’m sure.

So, that’s where I stand with editing. Do as much as you can. Use whatever tools work for you and make that manuscript as clear and concise so that your readers will fall into your novel and really connect with the story, the characters and the settings.

Hello 2026

Yes, it’s finally here! And so is the heat! What the hell? That’s what it feels like, anyway. But we can’t complain. I’m just gonna make sure the spa is okay tomorrow and maybe laze in it on Tuesday arvo. Oh, wait, Tuesday’s supposed to be cooler – 32°C, so maybe not.

I don’t have a lot of news to share apart from the heat and that it’s 2026! Although I do wonder where 2025 went. I feel like one minute we were in Awaba (September 2025) and the next it was 2026!

Anyway, that’s life!

Updates

Clans in Conflict

Dark Dimensions Part 1 and 2 is recounting that journey to Torkandisch. Dark Reign is the next book in the series and covers the next 12 months in the city-state.

So, that’s what’s in store for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in this world.

There are also going to be other stories, along with a special edition of Dark Dimensions where the two parts are combined. That will be in the future.

Consequences

This series follows the rise of Marek from a mastermind thief to the saviour of a nation.

Legacy of Risks will follow in the next few months, once cover art is finalised for it. The reason why it will take a few months is because I’m applying The Emotion Thesaurus options to it.

Dangerous Heart will then go to beta readers.

Watch this space.

There will be some short stories come out and, possibly, a fourth book that covers events much later after Dangerous Heart. Definitely a “watch this space” moment.

Other Universes

Strefinobhan

Paranormal

Again, this will have to wait until work on the Otherworldly Emergence series is completed. One of my paranormal pieces, however, is in the Emergence series, so stay tuned for updates there.

Speaking of which, you can find the Otherworldly Emergence information at the website below.

Bushland Castle Productions

I have finished editing one novella, Not your Normal Heroes. I am still editing the other and will have that editing finished by the end of the week.

Both stories have gone through beta readers and I am awaiting the feedback from one. Once that comes in, I’ll study the feedback and make what changes I can, then it will go to copy editing.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

BCP is planning its next series, which will build on the Otherworldly Emergence but this time will be Otherworldly Origins. Stay tuned for further information regarding that (along with a link).

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

Grow Write

Once every fortnight, Grow Write meets at the Midland Library in Midland, Perth, Western Australia. We are very excited to announce that our very first anthology is now going through the finalisation of publishing and we expect copies to be available later in January. Watch this space!

Reviews/constructive feedback/critiques

This is a pet project of mine – to remind writers and authors that reviews, feedback and critiquing can be a writer’s best aid in their craft.

I am of the opinion – and this is my opinion only – that we should do everything we can to improve our writing as we go. This means learning from the best people and learning from mistakes we make.

This is where beta readers come in handy. They help find plot holes, inconsistencies, parts in the work that needs more attention and characters/settings that just don’t work. They also find the opposite, those characters that work really well, the settings and plots that do and what they love and what they hate.

This can help the final product become the shining piece of art you, as a writer or author, longs for it to be.

The same goes for reviews. These can consist of constructive feedback. It is up to us to dissect that feedback and see what can improve the story to get that high level of perfection.

Another point of assistance is critiquing. This can happen with an online group or an in‑person writing group. In Grow Write, we do this at every meeting and I know it greatly assists my writing – because having someone read your work out gives a totally different viewpoint and it helps a writer/author in understanding what their reader gets from reading our book.

So, take those not-so-positive reviews and beta reads and put them to good use in perfecting your work and refining your writing prowess. I am very grateful to these types of feedbacks and reviews and critiquing because they help me grow my talent in writing.

This is something I feel strongly about and hope others can see what I have learnt in my own books.

End of 2025

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, everyone!

It’s finally the end of the year and lots has happened with lots more to go.

For those who have been following me on Substack, my account is now what I call abandoned. I will no longer be posting there.

So far, our weather has evened out, but we are due for a very hot Christmas day. Tuesday we’re expecting 38, Wednesday 41, Thursday 42. Then we start to cool off for a few days. I think I’ll be living in the spa on Thursday!

We’ve done another ghost hunting session. Which was fun. Had some interesting words come up and lots of false positives such as trees and lights in the SLS. What a blast it was!

Updates

Clans in Conflict

Dark Dimensions Part 1 and 2 is recounting that journey to Torkandisch. Dark Reign is the next book in the series and covers the next 12 months in the city-state.

So, that’s what’s in store for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in this world.

There are also going to be other stories, along with a special edition of Dark Dimensions where the two parts are combined. That will be in the future.

The Ryan Locke story has gone through one edit and I’ll be starting on a second edit in January. Hopefully it will be out soon.

Consequences

This series follows the rise of Marek from a mastermind thief to the saviour of a nation.

Legacy of Risks will follow in the next few months, once cover art is finalised for it. The reason why it will take a few months is because I’m applying The Emotion Thesaurus options to it.

Dangerous Heart will then go to beta readers.

Watch this space.

There will be some short stories come out and, possibly, a fourth book that covers events much later after Dangerous Heart. Definitely a “watch this space” moment.

Other Universes

Strefinobhan

Paranormal

Again, this will have to wait until work on the Otherworldly Emergence series is completed. One of my paranormal pieces, however, is in the Emergence series, so stay tuned for updates there.

Speaking of which, you can find the Otherworldly Emergence information at the website below.

Bushland Castle Productions

I have finished editing one novella, Not your Normal Heroes. I am still editing the other and will have that editing finished by the end of the week.

Both stories have gone through some beta readers and have been received well and will be going to more beta readers on Friday.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

BCP is planning its next series, which will build on the Otherworldly Emergence but this time will be Otherworldly Origins. Stay tuned for further information regarding that (along with a link).

Also check out their podcast – Finding Elara. Learn about Mindfulness from other creatives – not just writers, but other creative persons, as well as worldbuilding and other information.

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

Grow Write

Worldbuilding

One of the questions that often pops up is how much worldbuilding a writer should do and how they should do that.

As with writing, there are many ways to do this. Some writers build their world before they “put pen to paper”, others build their world as they go while still others build afterward.

I am of the opinion that the worldbuilding can start anywhere. I believe that it should not get in the way of the storytelling and should be used to enrich the plot and the characters.

But worldbuilding is separate to settings. Well, that’s my opinion. In technicalities, I really don’t know if they are separate or one and the same. There are probably arguments for both. (If I was talking to you, I’d be shrugging here.)

Some worlds need to be complex structures, like Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, Julian May’s Saga of the Exiles and a few other worlds, such as Foundation, by Isaac Asimov and, of course, you can’t go past Downton Abbey and Star Trek.

And imagine creating the Upside down of Stranger Things.

But then you have the worlds that are based on our real life, such as crime shows and things like that.

Worldbuilding, I believe, can be as much or as little as you like.

I have used Google Maps to help me with my worldbuilding but it has been on the spur of the moment. And it usually is as a guide – unless I’m writing about our world, such as the Consequences series or my Otherworldly Emergence stories. Then I might use those maps as a way of guiding my characters’ activities in existing places.

Some people use mapping programs and this is perfectly fine. I am currently testing one but I’m still learning to use it. When I’ve got my head around it, I’ll let you know which one it is. Because if I can get it working in what I need it to, it is a great program.

When worldbuilding, bear in mind what your characters do. Only one of mine is religious, so I don’t reference any religions and nor have I created any religions for Clans in Conflict or Strefinobhan.

But religions can be a key ingredient in worldbuilding, so be mindful of what you create. Be sure that it is clear in your mind and write the background to that religion separately so that it becomes clear in your writing.

Same if you’re using a magic system. In Strefinobhan, I decided to make magic scientific. I looked at what formed the basis of the magic in Strefinobhan and then brainstormed how science could create that same effect and power. Thus was born, with the help of a friend, synergy. My sorcerers became synergists. (No, you’re not learning what the power is they synergise until the first book is out.)

Another important factor of worldbuilding is the legal and social structure. I base most of my legal and social structures on a variety of concepts that are born of real life, television shows and books. Some of my social structures are idealistic and some of them are realistic. It’s just what I use at the time and what seems appropriate.

Because that’s the main thing when worldbuilding.

When you decide to build a part of it, such as magic, law, social structure, religion, stuff like that, always ask yourself this question: is it appropriate in the setting? Does it work in this world and does it add to the story and characters. Most of the time, you’ll thrash out what works and what doesn’t and don’t ever let yourself lose sleep if you’ve had to lose a part of an idea. Keep that for another story.

There’s another secret – don’t ever throw anything away – you might be able to use it somewhere else.

And that’s the gems for today.

Be safe over the holidays and I’ll talk to you next year!

Summer 2025

Well, it’s made it. Summer is here!

We had a really hot start – or end of spring, whichever you want – but we’ve now got nice weather.

Although, along with the nice weather comes the bushfire warnings. No rain equals dry loads. Keep safe out there, everyone!

I know I talked about ghost hunting last time, so might do some more in a week or so. Just depends. I will keep you posted on that.

Updates

Clans in Conflict

Dark Dimensions Part 1 and 2 is recounting that journey to Torkandisch. Dark Reign is the next book in the series and covers the next 12 months in the city-state.

So, that’s what’s in store for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in this world.

There are also going to be other stories, along with a special edition of Dark Dimensions where the two parts are combined. That will be in the future.

Also, I have a story that revolves around Ryan Locke of Dark Reign and Deadly Convergence. This is currently being edited before going to beta readers and the editor.

Consequences

This series follows the rise of Marek from a mastermind thief to the saviour of a nation.

Heart of Deception is now available through Amazon and Draft2Digital.

Legacy of Risks will follow in the next few months, once cover art is finalised for it. The reason why it will take a few months is because I’m applying The Emotion Thesaurus options to it.

Dangerous Heart will then go to beta readers.

Watch this space.

There will be some short stories come out and, possibly, a fourth book that covers events much later after Dangerous Heart. Definitely a “watch this space” moment.

Other Universes

Strefinobhan

Paranormal

Again, this will have to wait until work on the Otherworldly Emergence series is completed. One of my paranormal pieces, however, is in the Emergence series, so stay tuned for updates there.

Speaking of which, you can find the Otherworldly Emergence information at the website below.

Bushland Castle Productions

I have finished editing one novella, Not your Normal Heroes. I am still editing the other and will have that editing finished by the end of the week.

Both stories have gone through some beta readers and have been received well and will be going to more beta readers on Friday.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

Also check out their podcast – Finding Elara. Learn about Mindfulness from other creatives – not just writers, but other creative persons, as well as worldbuilding and other information.

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

Grow Write

Once every fortnight, Grow Write meets at the Midland Library in Midland, Perth, Western Australia. We are very excited to announce that our very first anthology is complete and it is almost ready for publishing. Watch this space as I will be sharing the cover with you!

Emotions and head hopping

This time, I want to talk about emotions. Because emotions are what keep your reader in the book – well, apart from intrigue, suspense and action.

What I mean is your reader will connect more strongly with your characters if they show emotions.

Now, this can be really hard. I know, because I find it hard to write emotions. At least I did. That was before I got a copy of The Emotion Thesaurus. I’m sure I’ve already mentioned it before, but this really did open my eyes to emotions in a story.

I chose to write first person for that very reason. Because I couldn’t connect with the emotions of my protagonist when I wrote in third person. In third person I can talk the emotions over with the reader through the character.

I also discovered that head hopping is an easy mistake to make – let me rephrase that.

If you want a scene that is written in third person to be only from the point of view of one character, then there can be no head hopping in it.

To write a scene from one person’s point of view rather than from many is your choice to make and all the shows I’ve watched on television make it hard to stick to one character in a scene because they show that same scene (at different points) from different characters’ perspectives.

But I’m not going to talk about scenes from multiple points of view in this because that just does my head in to think about. So, I’m going to limit this little gem I’ve worked out to a single point of view scene. Got it?

So, head hopping. This can be an issue if your scene is written from one person’s point of view. I’ve done it myself – even in Not your Normal Heroes. Because that is the first story for a long time that I’ve written in third person.

It is a natural thing that if you are writing a character’s response, you just think like them. It’s like speaking both sides of a conversation. (Don’t ask, it’s not easy to explain.)

It’s a matter of watching out for things like this:

“Rafe calculated the distance from where they stood and nodded.”

This scene was actually in Jordy’s point of view, so he wouldn’t know that Rafe was calculating the distance in his head. He would see what Rafe’s facial expression was and that would tell him what Rafe was probably doing.

So, this is where The Emotion Thesaurus comes in handy. I can read where I want a character to react, then consult the thesaurus to see what others would observe from that character. Like a widening of the eyes, a crease to the brow or a particular tone of voice, like a growl or higher pitch than normal.

The closest thing I can say that the thesaurus does is it lists body language in ways that help a writer to understand it. To be able to convey through body language what the character is seeing in other people.

Such as what does anger look like? What does fear look like? Or relief? These questions are vitally important to writing more rounded characters. (Yes, I will go through what I’ve written one day and apply the thesaurus to them.)

Same with smells. What does mildew smell like? What does a sewer smell like? I’d love a reference book that provides those ’cause I’ve started writing a list by researching what those types of things smell like.

Therefore, for those scenes where you want people fully immersed, try thinking about how you can relay those smells, those feelings, those tastes. Think about what noises are going on in the background (another thing I have trouble with) and what the character can see.

All of these will give your reader a much better sense of characters and action in your written works.

End of Spring

So, Spring is coming to a close and we’re looking ahead to Summer. Weather is still a bit iffy, some warm days, some cool days.

In fact, we went out ghost hunting in a cemetery last night using our favourite ghost hunting apps. What great fun that was! Awesome for research. We even used an SLS app and, yes, we had a result we can’t explain. There was nothing to suggest a false positive, so we’re taking it that we found a ghost.

Anyway, onto updates.

Clans in Conflict

Dark Dimensions Part 1 and 2 is recounting that journey to Torkandisch. Dark Reign is the next book in the series and covers the next 12 months in the city-state.

The Dark Road takes place about 16 years later. Lots in Torkandish has changed and there is lots of intrigue and heartache throughout this book. Some funny instances, too.

But Dark Beginnings will take us back to where it all started in Tordun, covering Vlad’s rise to power and, perhaps, that fateful experiment, along with the first 15 years of dimension-hopping.

So, that’s what’s in store for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in this world.

There are also going to be other stories, along with a special edition of Dark Dimensions where the two parts are combined. That will be in the future.

Consequences

Only 5 days until Heart of Deception is launched! 28 November! We are hosting an online launch party to celebrate. Sign up by clicking on the link below:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/16KYIn7lC0AAFVAG50cz_w8eGyhTU0Lryj8W8Py3r7a8/edit?usp=sharing

Legacy of Risks will follow in the next few months, once cover art is finalised for it.

Dangerous Heart will then go to beta readers.

Watch this space.

This series follows the rise of Marek from a mastermind thief to the saviour of a nation.

There will be some short stories come out and, possibly, a fourth book that covers events much later after Dangerous Heart. Definitely a “watch this space” moment.

Other Universes

Strefinobhan

Paranormal

Again, this will have to wait until work on the Otherworldly Emergence series is completed. One of my paranormal pieces, however, is in the Emergence series, so stay tuned for updates there.

Speaking of which, you can find the Otherworldly Emergence information at the website below.

Bushland Castle Productions

As mentioned above, I am currently editing both stories for Bushland Castle Production’s Otherworldly Emergence Novella series.

I have finished editing the other one and am about to submit that story. I’ll be trying to lose something like 2800 words, however. As usual, I’ve gone overboard.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

Also check out their podcast – Finding Elara. Learn about Mindfulness from other creatives – not just writers, but other creative persons, as well as worldbuilding and other information.

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

Grow Write

Dialogue

So, I want to talk about dialogue. Which is talking, conversation, whatever, between characters.

I could talk about all the tags and that sort of thing that writers have to know and ensure they’re in place, but I’m sure you’ve heard that all before.

What I want to talk about is how to create that conversation so that it sounds/reads as natural speech. And the best way to do that is to imagine your characters having that conversation.

Now, I did learn, recently, that it pays to intersperse actions with the dialogue so that the characters are more than just a name on a page. This can be rolling the eyes, scratching their head, scratching a beard if they have one, raking a hand through their hair or any number of facial expressions.

These actions give your character life.

There’s nothing worse than just having the dialogue between the characters and not their actions/reactions.

Take a surprised character. Maybe they’re surprised by the topic of the conversation. So, maybe their reaction goes like this:

‘You what?’ Valerie asked, her eyes wide and her eyebrows raised.

This shows how Valerie’s face looks. What her expression is and what her face is doing. These facial expressions tell us that Valerie feels surprised when she hears whatever comment is made by the other character.

But it could go a different way. Take this for instance:

‘You what?’ Valerie’s eyes narrowed, her brow was creased and her teeth bared.

This might convey an expression of anger or outrage.

The other thing your character might do is scratch their head or run a hand through their hair. Like in the following:

‘Uh, I wouldn’t like to say,’ Donal said, scratching the back of his head.

This implies that Donal is uncomfortable and doesn’t want to discuss something that should really be spoken about by somebody else. Or, it may be as follows:

‘Uh, I wouldn’t like to say,’ Donal said, bowing his head and rubbing at the tile with his toe.

This one might imply that Donal might be embarrassed at the context of the conversation. Or that he doesn’t really know anything about what he’s being asked, but doesn’t want the other person to know he doesn’t know, so he’s trying to distract them.

The idea is to show how your characters react in that conversation in a realistic manner. I do this by putting myself in their situation. When I write those two words in either scenario, I am in Valerie’s head. I am saying those words and my eyes and eyebrows are making those expressions.

Then I double-check the Emotion Thesaurus to see if I have reflected that expression in the way readers would.

So, my suggestion is to go and experiment with dialogue, conversation or just monologue, using those cues above and see whether you can bring those characters and conversations to life.

That’s it for this week! Have fun with your characters!

Spring is finally here!

Yes, the cold has retreated for now. We have had rain, and we’d like a lot more, but for now we have lovely weather – not too hot and not too cold.

There’s not really a lot to say – lost for words for once – wait, no, I have some ordinary news!

We grew potatoes! Self-seeded ones and apparently we have self-seeded tomatoes, too! Have to keep an eye on them!

And we took public transport into the city a week ago for a meeting. Yes, I have those that are totally unrelated to this, but I have to tell you – I was in a room with a whole heap of professors, doctors and students! It was rather daunting, to say the least. I just have to hope I held my own with them all.

Okay, onto updates

Clans in Conflict

Dark Dimensions (edition 2), Dark Reign and Deadly Convergence are still available through various places. Although Deadly Convergence is only available through Amazon currently.

The Dark Road is still with the beta readers and because of other projects, this is a little on the backburner. It will be exciting when it’s up there, though.

Dark Beginnings is still on the backburner. Hopefully I’ll be able to get to it soon.

The other Kindle Unlimited story is still being edited and we’re nearly at the end of that. This is an informal editing and has yet to go to beta readers and the editor. Also hasn’t got a title, either!

Consequences

Heart of Deception (edition 2) is finally published. It will be released on 28 November 2025.

Join Marek on his first encounter with the royal family of Albermarle.

Legacy of Risks (edition 2) is still with beta readers. Hopefully it won’t be long, now.

Dangerous Heart is on the backburner until I’ve done all this other work. I promise, it will be out.

Other Universes

Strefinobhan

All books in this series are on backburner whilst I work on some urgent manuscripts.

Paranormal

My usual paranormal stories are also on the backburner, but one is being rewritten for the Otherworldly Emergence series.

Speaking of which, you can find the Otherworldly Emergence information at the website below.

Bushland Castle Productions

As mentioned above, I am currently editing both stories for Bushland Castle Production’s Otherworldly Emergence Novella series.

I have finished editing the other one and am about to submit that story. I’ll be trying to lose something like 2800 words, however. As usual, I’ve gone overboard.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

Also check out their podcast – Finding Elara. Learn about Mindfulness from other creatives – not just writers, but other creative persons, as well as worldbuilding and other information.

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

Writing group

As some of you may be aware, I run a writing group called Grow Write in Midland, Western Australia. I am proud to announce that we are in the process of publishing our very first anthology. I am soooooooo looking forward to that book coming out! Stay tuned for more details.

It’s in the final formatting stages, so should be out soon.

Characters

I’ve often been told by my editor to ‘stop hurting him or I’ll take him away’.

You might think that that’s a fair and reasonable comment.

However, you have to remember that my stories are full of action and dialogue. Often an action character, be they hero or something else, must go through a gamut of emotions to grow into where they must end up.

Like we have to, sometimes.

Let’s not shy away from the fact that trauma is part of everyday life. The secret is to even it out with other emotions.

So, we all have bad days or bad years. It’s part and parcel of life.

Take Macbeth or Julius Caesar (Shakespeare’s version). They’re prime examples of what an author can do to a character to get them where they have to be by the end of the tale.

I will say that having an experimental character where you can do the worst to a character is an eye-opening experience and I do recommend it. I have shared a bit of my experimental character and I’ve been told that I should publish it, but it’s a very controversial work and I’m not sure where I would publish it.

Afterall, it’s my commentary on what’s wrong with humans at the moment. My experimental character touches on human trafficking, addiction, weapons of mass destruction, certain trades that are frowned upon, abduction and betrayal. And that’s all you’re getting. Let me just finish on – it’s a really dark work.

So, don’t be afraid to hurt your characters. Don’t be afraid to take them to the depths of darkness and bring them out into the light again. That can be metaphoric or spiritual or, even, physical. The character you have at the end will be a strong character.

Strange Weather

What weird weather Perth has been having!

The week before last was beautiful, sunny days, warm weather – although not too warm. The only problem was, no rain when we needed it.

Last week? Up and down like a yoyo! The start of the week was wet! Really wet! Then we got cool but dry. Then yesterday I wake up to wet and cold! And today’s no better! Where’s the sun? I think it’s on strike! At least give us some rain!

Apart from that, nothing unusual has happened, so I won’t bore you.

Updates

Clans in Conflict

My sincere apologies. Somehow, I got the link wrong or something went wrong, so I do apologise that my books weren’t actually free last weekend. I am sooooooooo sorry about that.

The Dark Road is still on the backburner along with Dark Beginnings. I will get to them, I promise.

The second short story in Torkandisch is getting closer. It is set at the same time as Dark Reign, so you could say it’s a companion story.

Consequences

Heart of Deception Edition 2 – we have had a little hiccup with the cover art – again. So, we’re still tweaking that. Once that tweak is fixed, I will have a release date for everyone. I will have an online launch but may also have a launch in Midland. Possibly.

Legacy of Risks Edition 2 – still looking for beta readers for this and still especially someone who’s had a back injury that has put them in a wheelchair. Message me if you’re interested.

Dangerous Heart – this book wraps up this particular trilogy and ties up a few loose ends. Again, still needs beta readers, so message me if you’re interested.

Other universes

Strefinobhan

Paranormal

These are still on the backburner but I should be getting back into Strefinobhan very soon as my two stories for the Otherworldly Emergence series are complete and going through editing. Speaking of which, you can find the Otherworldly Emergence information at the website below.

Bushland Castle Productions

As mentioned above, I am currently editing both stories for Bushland Castle Production’s Otherworldly Emergence Novella series.

I have finished editing the other one and am about to submit that story. I’ll be trying to lose something like 2800 words, however. As usual, I’ve gone overboard.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

Also check out their podcast – Finding Elara. Learn about Mindfulness from other creatives – not just writers, but other creative persons, as well as worldbuilding and other information.

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

New resources

They have arrived! The Emotional Wound Thesaurus and The Emotion Amplifier are both sitting on my desk and, yes, I have used them! They are amazing books!

Writing group

Writers beware

We’ve all had emails from those people who promise us a plethora of platforms that they are prepared to share our books to and we all think they’re absolutely wonderful – until they ask for money. Then we do some research and find they don’t actually exist!

That’s when we realise that they’re not who they say they are.

I am writing this as a warning. They have expanded.

I have received two emails from two different people claiming to be running book clubs who want to share my books. They were both bogus. One even went so far as to put a profile onto Meetup and I almost got sucked into it. I did get into a conversation with the person and they did mention a “contribution” but then said it wasn’t required, it was just that some writers do.

Now, this person said a “member” of their “book club” had read Deadly Convergence and couldn’t stop talking about it, so the author of the email “searched” me on Amazon and said they loved the idea behind my book.

We set up a date that their group would be reading the book (don’t know why they wanted me to know) and everything seemed honky dory. However, the final email came with a request for further information. Such as the book cover, the link to the book, a pic of me and other things. Then a request for money. That was when the alarm bells rang.

I mean, if this person searched me on Amazon, they’ve already seen my pic, they’ve already seen the cover and they would definitely have the link to the book. I wrote back and said I didn’t have that kind of money.

Funny thing – I haven’t heard from them since.

The other email I got was an absolutely brilliant review – but as friends pointed out, it read like AI. At the bottom of that email was the usual guff about money, sharing it and the like.

The reason I’m sharing these two warnings is because I’m not the only one who has been receiving these emails.

So, be wary of emails like this. Do you due research and diligence. Make absolutely sure they’re legit before agreeing to anything. And, yes, I’ve checked my junk mail and haven’t heard from either of them.

Back home!

My apologies! I have been away for a few weeks and only came back last week, so I wasn’t able to post!

We had a great time, caught up with family, got to see Newcastle, NSW, and met two amazing dogs, Haze and Bella. They love their humans.

The weather was awesome and there have been lots of changes since I was last in Newcastle. We actually stayed in a small semi-rural area just south of Newcastle and had an absolute ball. The weather was beautiful most of the time, although for our day in the Hunter Valley, clouds did cover the sun. Weather was pretty good, though.

We also went all the way down to Wollongong – just to drive along the Sea Cliff Bridge. What an amazing piece of architecture that is! It was another beautiful day, but if you’re planning this trip, make sure you don’t go during school holidays – talk about busy! We didn’t get much footage, so our family is going to go back down there and take some pics and a better video of the bridge.

Mind you, the small town of Scarborough is gorgeous to drive through. Very picturesque.

But enough about my holidays and me! You want updates on my writing!

Updates

Clans in Conflict

On the coming weekend, the ebook versions of Dark Dimensions Part 1 and 2, Dark Reign and Deadly Convergence will be available for free across all platforms. This is part of the “stuff your kindle” extravaganza, but I will post more details about that later this week.

The Dark Road – this is currently on the backburner while I finish other work. I am still looking for more beta readers for this, so if anyone’s interested, just buzz me and we’ll chat.

Dark Beginnings – until I get The Dark Road published, this is on the backburner. So, if you want to know about Vlad’s rise to power, please contact me about being a beta reader and we’ll talk.

There will be another short story in Torkandisch coming out soon. It’s just going through editing at the moment, then I’ll get the cover art for it.

Consequences

Heart of Deception Edition 2 – there has been a slight hiccup with the cover art – just needs tweaking – but I have a release date (unless there’s another hitch) of 28 November 2025. There is a reason for this – originally, I’d planned for 31 October (obvious reasons) but with the hitch, I’ve delayed the release. 28 November is my Dad’s birthday, so it’s fitting that I use that date.

Legacy of Risks Edition 2 – again, looking for more beta readers for this – especially someone who has experience in a wheelchair or a back injury. Just buzz me if you’re interested.

Dangerous Heart – this also needs beta readers. So, same message.

Once these three are out, I have some short stories that I’ll put up in Kindle Unlimited. All about Marek and Squeak when they were a lot younger.

Other Universes

Paranormal

Strefinobhan

Both of these are on backburner due to my involvement in the Otherworldly Emergence with Bushland Castle Productions.

Bushland Castle Productions

As mentioned above, I am currently editing both stories for Bushland Castle Production’s Otherworldly Emergence Novella series.

I have finished editing the other one and am about to submit that story. I’ll be trying to lose something like 2800 words, however. As usual, I’ve gone overboard.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

Also check out their podcast – Finding Elara. Learn about Mindfulness from other creatives – not just writers, but other creative persons, as well as worldbuilding and other information.

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

New resources

As I said last week, thanks to Selina Shapland’s recommendation, I am utilising The Emotion Thesaurus all the time.

Not only that, but I’ve also invested in The Emotional Wound Thesaurus and The Emotion Amplifier from the same authors. I can’t wait for them to arrive!

Reviews

I don’t know what is worse and best for a writer.

As writers, we go through various stages when we are creating our worlds and characters for everyone to enjoy.

From day one, we are plagued with thoughts like:

Is it going work?

Is anyone going to read it?

Are they going to enjoy it?

Will they mention it to others so that we get more readers?

And sometimes, even:

Have I published the best possible work I can?

Could I have made it better than what it is?

Why did I think I could do this?

No-one’s going to love my work.

No-one’s going to read what I have written.

These are natural thoughts and we all have them go through our heads at one point or another.

To help us with these thoughts, we share our work with trusted friends and family. People who will tell us they love our work and that we should keep going. Get it out there. Publish it! People are going to love it.

And those are great words of encouragement.

But sometimes, as an author, we need more. We need objective feedback. We need constructive feedback. Even if it’s after we’ve published – that’s why we can unpublish a book – or even make it a second edition.

And that’s where reviewers come in. They often pick up issues that our proofreaders, editors and beta readers (and those who are lucky enough to have them, ARC readers) may miss. Because they have an objective outlook.

They are professionals at what they do. They love what they do and they love helping authors by giving them the truth of the work that they’re reviewing.

Some reviewers out there don’t want money for reviews. They do it for the love of reading and helping authors.

Now, this may not be the glowing review you crave, but if you read into the review, they will often point out issues and make constructive comments about resolving those issues. They can be one last minute check to make sure everything works.

Most of them have rules that are clearly spelt out on their website – or some will clarify in an email – if they receive a genuine question about their rules and expectations.

So, my advice is – if you approach one of these free reviewers, read their rules and expectations carefully. Make sure you understand what they want from you and what you can expect from them. If you don’t, then ask for clarification.

There is nothing worse than someone not providing what a reviewer has requested.

Reviewers are ordinary people like you and me. They have a right to respect and that respect includes providing all of the information the reviewer has requested.

They don’t get paid for reviewing your book, but they can get lots of readers to read what you have written. They can get you those readers who want more. Who are invested in your characters, your world, your plots.

So, please, pay reviewers the respect they deserve.

Spring – maybe?

Yes, it has been warmer! I have spent at least 10 mins outside during the day sitting in the sun. Sooooooooooo nice!

But we’re back to rain this week! Ho hum. Although we need it, did we really need a whole week of it?

Anyway. That’s how nature works.

On to updates.

Updates

Clans in Conflict

Dark Dimensions, Dark Reign and Deadly Convergence are still available through Amazon with Dark Dimensions and Dark Reign being available elsewhere. Deadly Convergence is a Kindle Unlimited story currently, so it is only available through Amazon.

The Dark Road is still on the backburner. I do hope to re-look at it and go over it again.

Dark Beginnings is also on backburner.

There is a new story coming out that will be going to Kindle Unlimited. This one focuses on Ryan Locke from Dark Reign and Deadly Convergence. So, stay tuned for further updates on that!

Consequences

Heart of Deception

I have the proof copy! Yes, I really do. However, in real life there are a couple of issues which I hope will be fixed this week, if not by the end of the month. Stay tuned!

Legacy of Risks

I will look at this book in a few weeks. I am pretty sure it is ready to go but it may need one more check with the editor.

Dangerous Heart is currently on the backburner until Legacy of Risks is published.

Other Universes

Paranormal

Strefinobhan

Crime

All of these are on the backburner, although I have heard back from a beta reader about the first in the Strefinobhan books and as soon as I can, I’ll be updating that.

Bushland Castle Productions

As mentioned above, I am currently editing both stories for Bushland Castle Production’s Otherworldly Emergence Novella series.

I have finished editing the other one and am about to submit that story. I’ll be trying to lose something like 2800 words, however. As usual, I’ve gone overboard.

Pitches for this novella series has now closed and we are working hard on our manuscripts to bring them to you in a timely manner.

All of the information regarding the novella series is at the website:

https://www.bushlandcastleproductions.com/emergence

Also check out their podcast – Finding Elara. Learn about Mindfulness from other creatives – not just writers, but other creative persons, as well as worldbuilding and other information.

At the end of each segment, there’s a prize drawn. Go in to win books and other goodies!

New resource

Oh, my gosh! I have had the delight and pleasure of working with Selina Shapland on the two stories I am currently writing for the above Overworldly Emergence.

Selina is a book coach, development editor and copy editor. She has her own website: www.empoweredwords.com.au and she has been helping me with tightening up my writing.

Selina introduced me to The Emotional Thesaurus and I’ve only had it since Thursday night and only really got the opportunity to use it yesterday. I think I consulted it 10 times and I have the index marked for easy access.

Selina has helped me get into the emotions of the characters. The story we’ve been working on is a rare third-person POV. As you know, I normally write first person. For some reason, it didn’t fit well in this story. Also, it is my first YA novella, so we had to make sure the emotions fit the age groups.

I can’t say enough great stuff about Selina and The Emotional Thesaurus. If you have trouble with writing how emotions look to an observer, then I thoroughly recommend this resource.

I also recommend someone like Selina (I am biased, of course) for their hands-on experience and knowledge that goes deeper than I thought possible.

Selina is also a member of Romance Writers Australia, Romance Writers New Zealand and Sisters in Crime. She can be found on Instagram, Facebook, Substack and LinkedIn.

I have learnt so much from the three sessions I’ve had with Selina and I have two sessions to go. I am looking forward to those in a few weeks.

That’s about it, though, so I will talk to you in a couple of weeks. Have a great fortnight!