Tied in Knots

           Since childhood I have been fascinated by the Saxons and Vikings. I took every opportunity to explore their lives, either through re-enactment events at carnivals, reading at the library, or visiting historical sites with my family. At fancy dress parties I am always drawn to elaborate gowns worn by medieval ladies, later finding myself wishing I had gone as a warrior in chain mail. A former art student, I am intrigued by patterns and textures, shapes and dyes, a passion I share with my mother who studied textiles. Writing historical novels set during these periods has renewed my interest in art, inspiring me in new ways. It was writing about chain mail that first set my mind off on an artistic exploration of links and knots.

Kindred Spirits

Recently I have heard many conflicting views concerning the effectiveness of twitter and all it has (or doesn't have) to offer. Personally, I was hesitant to join and feared it. I did not know it, however, and so forced myself to. I am so happy I did. I have discovered opportunities, gained knowledge and experience and met so many good people. This weekend was one such meeting of good people that I am so grateful to have found.

A New Leaf...

For all the portent and mystery 2012 brought with it, the year seems to have been a melange of strife and success for many; as though counter-balancing itself day by day.  As we approached and passed the winter solstice, our futures balancing on the horizon; that precipice of opportunity and creative expression, how many of us wondered where our journeys would take us?  I, for one, was grateful to have found more time to write and complete the rewrite my editor recommended.  The next exciting venture is to finally have office space to dedicate solely to my writing, rather than hot-desking around the house!

Saxon Combat

I recently donned a helmet and shield to adopt the mindset of a 5^th Century Saxon warrior, to enhance my research on the first novel in my Saga trilogy.  With the help of Andy Pilkington I was shot at by arrows, advanced in a shield wall and took out an opponent with axe and sword.  Most of the action was slow-motion relay and we discussed how to wield the weaponry, though I found there are some things you cannot slow down.

Although it's been a while since I've posted I have not been idle.  Honest.  I've been as busy as the birds in my garden who have been foraging for nesting materials and fending off rivals among the conifers and apple trees.  In a way, I have also been nesting, preparing something that I hope will support me.  Only instead of twigs, fluff and feathers I have been using pens, paper and my computer.

A Mother's Tale

          Foliage breaking strides through the undergrowth of the uneven holt floor was barely enough to delay the pounding of clawed feet.  Tongue sliding through the side of my mouth and breathing ragged, I tried to outrun them.  They were hungry, however, and would not slow down merely to provide me with more time to prepare.  Heavy with young, I wanted to quell their lust for larger kill; wanted to tame them before I birthed my own into their hungry midst.  There were too many males and I feared there would be bloodshed.

Pre-Writerhood

          It is interesting to know what writers were before they were writers.  For most of us, we have taken a long and winding journey before destiny found us and handed us the golden pen of creation.  Even those of us lucky enough to have been scribing since a young age, have always come by way of another route.  Often the way of the writer is a never-ending twisted and gnarled path of trials and tribulations, with occasional high notes and flat plains of free sailing.