Ruth’s Blog
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Opening paragraphs
At the very beginning, when I was starting my very first novel, I wanted to 'set the scene' for my readers, and began with a long description of a time and place - actually Barrow-in-Furness in 1916 - which I thought was pretty damn good. Considering what I was...
The discomfort of book promotion
Two events last week tested my resolve as a self-publishing author. Neither had anything to do with writing, and both were concerned with that other side of the business, the one that starts when the book is finished and printed and needs to be offered to people for...
Research: when, how, and how much is too much?
Right back to my student days, ensconced in the circular reading room at Manchester Central Library for days at a time, I've loved research, digging around, following footnote leads, piecing a picture together and seeing it emerge in all its satisfying complexity. I...
Making the right link
This is the earlier blog post I should have linked to in today's effort - the link that reviews Ryan and Hall's splendid writing workshop.
What is a ‘crime novel’? A question of genre
I know I should understand this by now, but I don't. I've asked various people 'What is 'genre' and why do we need it?' and the only answer that I remember, perhaps because of its absurdity - to me at least - is 'So that the bookseller/librarian will know which shelf...
Doing a ‘talk’ about writing and books
In the past month I've done a number of 'speaking engagements' with local organisations about my books, both the content and the writing and publishing process. Being a self-published author I welcome and need such opportunities to promote my books directly, as the...
Explicit violence in crime fiction: is it necessary?
Interesting piece in the Telegraph this week about the apparent increase in explicit violence in crime fiction. I read a fair sprinkling of the genre, and know that I have learned my limits in what I choose to read, and to watch. Reading words leaves less of an...
The highs and lows of the ‘literary lunch’
It was my first time. I bought a frock, a summery scarf to set it off, and matching shoes with high heels. My partner came with me. We were both nervous. It was a beautiful day. OK, that's the basic background. I'd like to share some details of this new experience...
Bad things can happen in good places
After finishing the trilogy based on the life of feisty but difficult Jessie Whelan, 'Between the Mountains and the Sea', I've been thinking about the next book, or possibly the next series, having realised the commercial advantages of a series when each book...
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