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Category Archives: Literature
Wrapping Up 2017
Now that the first draft of the novel I began writing during NaNoWriMo is over and done with (out next year hopefully), it’s time for me, as a writer, to take stock of the year that’s drawing to a conclusion. Did … Continue reading
What Makes You Think You’re Any Good at Writing?
There’s a common misconception that if you’re a writer, it logically follows that you must be loaded because you obviously sell a lot of books. It also seems to be the common perception that if you’re a well-known writer you … Continue reading
If it weren’t for Paul Auster…
If you’ve read the biography page on my website, you’ll have come across the mention of a writer called Paul Auster. And if you’ve known me long enough, you’ll recognise that same writer as one who is regularly mentioned or … Continue reading
Posted in Edinburgh Book Festival, Literature, Writing
Tagged EdBookFest, Paul Auster, Writing
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Indie Publishing and Me
A couple of years ago I met with Scottish publisher, author and agent, Allan Guthrie. We met up in a pub in Portobello and spoke at length about the publishing process, writing, and all that kind of stuff. I was … Continue reading
Posted in Books, Day Job, eBooks, Literature, Publishing and Marketing, Writing
Tagged Allan Guthrie, August Wainwright, indie, JA Konrath, publishing, Scott Nicholson
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An Old Friend
An old friend has been staying with me these past couple of weeks, after nine years in the wilderness. The last time I saw him he was an unsure 16-year old, a bit lost, with a lot of confusion and … Continue reading
Posted in Books, Fiction, Glasgow, Literature, Reading, Writing
Tagged Aye Write!, Glasgow, Hunting Jack, Jackie McCann, Mitchell Library, Sandi Toksvig, William McIlvanney
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Gutting Fish
As you can probably tell, I’ve got a few things on the go. Which is good. One month ago I released BACCARA BURNING and it’s selling well. I’m very pleased considering it’s a sequel to an existing book I wrote … Continue reading
Posted in Books, Fiction, Photography, Publishing and Marketing, Writing
Tagged cover art, Hunting Jack, Living Leith, novels, Poetry, thrillers, Writing
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‘Living Leith’ Delayed
I spent last Saturday with my wife in both a professional capacity as well as a social one. I’ll cover the professional part first. I’m still on the hunt for a suitable front cover for my forthcoming poetry chapbook, LIVING … Continue reading
Posted in Books, Food, Drink and Bevvy, Leith, Photography, Poetry, Publishing and Marketing
Tagged book, Edinburgh, Le Sept, Poetry, publishing, restaurant
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Iain Banks: Scotland Won’t Be The Same
Yesterday was a tough day among the readers and writers of Scotland and far beyond, as Iain Banks went public that he is in the final stages of gall bladder cancer and has been given only months to live. It … Continue reading
Posted in Edinburgh Book Festival, Editorial Comment, Literature, Scotland, Writing
Tagged author, cancer, Iain Banks, Scotland, The Bridge, The Wasp Factory
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Freedom from the Mundane 
Reaching For The Stars
Star Wars Rather sadly (to some), I’ve now seen Star Wars: the Force Awakens a grand total of six (6) times. I suppose one might argue I’m a little bit obsessed, but actually that’s quite wide of the mark. It’s more … Continue reading →